Best Scalloped Sweet Potatoes

The Best Scalloped Sweet Potatoes are a delightful side dish that shines during any festive occasion. Featuring thin medallions of sweet potatoes in a rich buttery brown sugar sauce, this recipe incorporates warm spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves for an irresistible flavor combination. Topped with mini vegan marshmallows and crunchy pecans, these scalloped sweet potatoes are sure to impress your guests at Christmas or Thanksgiving gatherings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The blend of spices creates a warm and inviting taste that pairs perfectly with any meal.
• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and minimal prep time, you can have this dish ready in under an hour.
• Versatile Side Dish: Perfect for holiday dinners or casual family meals, these scalloped sweet potatoes fit any occasion.
• Crowd-Pleaser: The unique combination of flavors and textures makes it a favorite among both adults and kids.
• Vegan-Friendly Option: Using mini vegan marshmallows ensures everyone can enjoy this tasty treat.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather the necessary tools for the best results. Having the right equipment helps streamline your cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking dish
• Small or medium saucepan
• Pastry brush
• Knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking dish: A good-quality baking dish ensures even cooking and easy serving of your scalloped sweet potatoes.
• Pastry brush: This tool is essential for evenly distributing the sauce over the sweet potato medallions, enhancing flavor throughout.
• Knife & Cutting board: Essential for slicing the sweet potatoes into perfect medallions for even cooking and appealing presentation.

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Ingredients

To make the Best Scalloped Sweet Potatoes, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 5-6 medium sweet potatoes (Peeled & cut into thin medallions)
• ¼ cup unsalted butter (see note below)
• ¼ cup brown sugar (light or dark)
• ½ cup water
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ¼ cup chopped pecans (or walnuts)
• ½ cup mini vegan marshmallows (see note below)

How to Make Best Scalloped Sweet Potatoes

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to prepare for baking those delicious scalloped sweet potatoes.

Step 2: Prepare Sweet Potatoes

Peel the sweet potatoes and cut them into thin medallions. Arrange these medallions in a single layer in your baking dish for even cooking.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

In a small or medium saucepan:
1. Add unsalted butter, brown sugar, water, ground cinnamon, ground cloves, ground nutmeg, and salt.
2. Turn the heat to medium and stir until all ingredients melt together into a smooth sauce.

Step 4: Assemble the Dish

Use a pastry brush to:
1. Evenly distribute about three-quarters of your melted sauce over the arranged sweet potato medallions.
2. Cover the baking dish with foil. Bake in the preheated oven for 45–50 minutes until tender.

Step 5: Add Toppings

Once baked:
1. Remove from oven and take off the foil.
2. Drizzle remaining sauce over the sweet potato medallions.
3. Sprinkle chopped pecans and mini vegan marshmallows on top.

Step 6: Broil for Finish

Return to oven:
1. Switch to broil setting.
2. Broil for about 1–2 minutes to toast the vegan marshmallows until golden brown—watch closely as they can burn quickly!

Step 7: Serve

Remove from oven and let cool for about 10–15 minutes before serving. Enjoy this amazing dish!

How to Serve Best Scalloped Sweet Potatoes

Serving Best Scalloped Sweet Potatoes can elevate any meal, especially during festive occasions. These sweet potatoes pair beautifully with a variety of dishes, enhancing both flavor and presentation.

With Roasted Vegetables

• Roasted Brussels sprouts or carrots complement the sweetness of the potatoes. Toss them with olive oil and herbs for added flavor.

Alongside Grilled Chicken

• The savory notes of grilled chicken balance the sweet and buttery scalloped sweet potatoes. A simple seasoning will enhance this pairing.

As a Holiday Buffet Item

• These scalloped sweet potatoes make an excellent addition to any holiday buffet. Their rich flavor and beautiful appearance attract guests’ attention.

Paired with a Fresh Salad

• A crisp salad with vinaigrette adds freshness to the meal. Consider arugula or spinach mixed with nuts and dried fruit for texture.

With Turkey or Roast Beef

• The creamy texture of scalloped sweet potatoes goes well with turkey or roast beef. This classic combo is perfect for Thanksgiving or family gatherings.

How to Perfect Best Scalloped Sweet Potatoes

To achieve the ultimate Best Scalloped Sweet Potatoes, consider these helpful tips that ensure your dish turns out perfectly every time.

• Slice Evenly: Ensuring that your sweet potato medallions are cut uniformly helps them cook evenly, resulting in a tender texture throughout.
• Use Quality Butter: Opting for high-quality unsalted butter enhances the richness of the sauce, making it creamier and more flavorful.
• Layer Carefully: When layering your sweet potatoes in the baking dish, alternate them with some sauce to ensure each layer is infused with flavor.
• Monitor Broiling Time: Keep a close eye while broiling to prevent burning. The mini vegan marshmallows should be toasted to a golden brown but not charred.
• Let It Rest: Allowing the dish to cool for 10-15 minutes before serving helps the flavors meld together better and makes it easier to serve.

Best Side Dishes for Best Scalloped Sweet Potatoes

Best Scalloped Sweet Potatoes can shine even brighter when paired with complementary side dishes. Here are some great options:

1. Green Bean Almondine: Crisp-tender green beans sautéed with almonds provide a nutty crunch that pairs well with sweet potatoes.
2. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic create a comforting combination with the sweetness of scalloped potatoes.
3. Honey Glazed Carrots: Sweetened carrots add another layer of flavor while maintaining harmony on your plate without overpowering other dishes.
4. Stuffed Bell Peppers: Colorful bell peppers stuffed with quinoa or rice offer a hearty option that complements the soft texture of scalloped sweet potatoes.
5. Roasted Cauliflower: Seasoned roasted cauliflower adds a savory contrast, making it an excellent side dish choice alongside your sweet potatoes.
6. Cranberry Sauce: A tart cranberry sauce provides a bright pop of flavor that balances the richness of scalloped sweet potatoes, especially during holiday meals.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making scalloped sweet potatoes can be straightforward, but avoiding certain mistakes can elevate your dish.

• Bold Ingredient Choices: Using the wrong type of sweet potatoes can impact flavor and texture. Stick to medium-sized sweet potatoes for optimal results.
• Bold Overcooking: Baking too long can cause the sweet potatoes to become mushy. Monitor the baking time closely to retain their structure.
• Bold Skipping Seasoning: Neglecting spices like cinnamon and nutmeg can lead to a flat flavor. Make sure to measure and add these spices for depth.
• Bold Inadequate Sauce Application: Not using enough sauce on the sweet potato medallions can lead to dryness. Ensure you coat them evenly with the sauce before baking.
• Bold Broiling Negligence: Broiling for too long can burn the marshmallows. Keep a close watch while broiling for that perfect golden finish.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3-5 days.
• Allow the dish to cool completely before refrigerating to preserve freshness.

Freezing Best Scalloped Sweet Potatoes

• Freeze in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 2 months.
• Ensure it is properly sealed to avoid freezer burn.

Reheating Best Scalloped Sweet Potatoes

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and cover with foil; reheat for about 20-25 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Place a portion in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Heat over low heat in a skillet with a splash of water or broth, stirring occasionally until warmed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making the best scalloped sweet potatoes.

What makes the Best Scalloped Sweet Potatoes?

The combination of sweet potatoes, spices, and the unique sweetness from brown sugar creates a dish that is both comforting and delicious.

Can I use other types of sweet potatoes?

Yes, while orange-fleshed sweet potatoes are traditional, you can experiment with purple or white varieties for different flavors.

How do I customize my Best Scalloped Sweet Potatoes?

You can add toppings like crushed nuts, dried fruit, or even a sprinkle of cheese (if not avoiding dairy) for added texture and flavor.

Are there any substitutes for mini vegan marshmallows?

You can use coconut whipped cream or simply omit them if desired. Alternatively, consider adding toasted coconut flakes as a topping.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! Prepare it a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Just reheat before serving.

Final Thoughts

These Best Scalloped Sweet Potatoes are not only tasty but also versatile enough for any occasion. You can customize them with various toppings or spices to suit your preferences. Give this delightful side dish a try at your next holiday gathering!