Every bite of these Brown Sugar Scalloped Sweet Potatoes takes me back to cozy family gatherings, where vibrant laughter mingled with the enticing aroma of roasted sweet potatoes. The blend of creamy sweet potato medallions and a buttery brown sugar sauce creates a dish that’s both simple to prepare and irresistibly delicious. With the warmth of spices like cinnamon and nutmeg harmonizing with the gooey marshmallows and crunchy pecans, this recipe is tailored to elevate your holiday feasts or a comforting weeknight dinner. Not only are these scalloped sweet potatoes a crowd-pleaser, but they also make for a stunning centerpiece on your table. Are you ready to impress your loved ones with this elegant side dish that melds sophistication with comfort? Let’s dive in!
Why Are Scalloped Sweet Potatoes Irresistible?
Comforting, these scalloped sweet potatoes blend nostalgia and indulgence, making them a beloved addition to any holiday table. Effortless preparation means you can spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying precious moments with family. Layers of flavor come together as cinnamon, nutmeg, and brown sugar envelop tender sweet potatoes. Versatile in pairing, they complement classic proteins like turkey or ham beautifully. For a unique twist, consider trying them alongside Sweet Potato Casserole or Grandma’s Sweet Potato for your festive meals!
Scalloped Sweet Potatoes Ingredients
For the Sweet Potatoes
• Sweet Potatoes – Choose firm, smooth sweet potatoes for the best texture and flavor.
• Unsalted Butter – Richens the sauce; you can use salted butter if you adjust the salt.
For the Brown Sugar Sauce
• Brown Sugar – Use either light or dark for varying depths of sweetness in the sauce.
• Water – Acts as a base for the sauce; consider heavy cream for added richness.
• Ground Cinnamon – A warm spice that elevates the sweetness of the dish.
• Ground Cloves – Use in moderation to enhance flavor without overpowering it.
• Ground Nutmeg – Complements spices nicely with its warm, nutty aroma.
• Salt – Balances the sweetness of the sauce; don’t skip this essential ingredient!
For the Topping
• Chopped Pecans or Walnuts – For a delightful crunch; walnuts can be a great substitute.
• Mini Marshmallows – Beautifully gooey topping that adds a touch of sweetness; feel free to add extra for more indulgence!
These scalloped sweet potatoes will not only tantalize your taste buds but also impress at your holiday gatherings. Enjoy making this delightful dish!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Brown Sugar Scalloped Sweet Potatoes with Marshmallows and Pecans
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This step is crucial as it ensures the environment is ready for the scalloped sweet potatoes to bake evenly. Take a moment to gather your baking dish and any other equipment you’ll need.
Step 2: Prepare the Sweet Potatoes
Peel the sweet potatoes carefully, then use a mandoline or sharp knife to slice them into thin medallions, about 1/4 inch thick. Arrange these beautiful slices in your greased baking dish, ensuring a snug but level layering to promote even cooking and a lovely presentation.
Step 3: Make the Brown Sugar Sauce
In a medium saucepan, melt 1/2 cup of unsalted butter over medium heat. Once melted, add 1 cup of brown sugar, 1/4 cup of water, and your spices: 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, 1/4 teaspoon of ground cloves, and 1/4 teaspoon of ground nutmeg. Stir continuously until the mixture is smooth and begins to bubble gently.
Step 4: Brush the Sauce onto the Sweet Potatoes
Take 3/4 of the warm brown sugar sauce and generously brush it over the arranged sweet potato medallions in the baking dish. This step infuses the potatoes with rich sweetness. Make sure every slice is coated while allowing the remaining sauce to be saved for later layers.
Step 5: Bake the Scalloped Sweet Potatoes
Cover the baking dish tightly with foil, which helps keep the moisture in, and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until the sweet potatoes are tender. You can check doneness by inserting a fork; it should penetrate easily through the slices.
Step 6: Add the Final Touches
Once the baking time is up, carefully remove the dish from the oven and uncover it. Drizzle the remaining brown sugar sauce over the sweet potatoes. Sprinkle chopped pecans and mini marshmallows evenly over the top. This layer adds delightful crunch and sweetness that complements the scalloped sweet potatoes beautifully.
Step 7: Broil for a Toasted Finish
Set your oven to broil and return the dish to the oven for 1-2 minutes. Watch closely as the mini marshmallows toast to a perfect golden brown. This step creates a delightful contrast with the gooey marshmallows perched atop the sweet potatoes.
Step 8: Cool Before Serving
Once broiled, remove the dish from the oven and allow it to cool for about 10-15 minutes. This resting period lets the flavors meld while ensuring that the scalloped sweet potatoes maintain their perfect texture. Serve warm and watch as your loved ones enjoy every mouthful!
Make Ahead Options
These Brown Sugar Scalloped Sweet Potatoes are a fantastic choice for meal prep, allowing you to savor festive flavors without the last-minute rush! You can peel and slice the sweet potatoes up to 24 hours in advance; simply keep them submerged in water in the refrigerator to prevent browning. You can also prepare the buttery brown sugar sauce and refrigerate it for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to cook, drain the sweet potatoes, layer them in your baking dish, brush with the sauce, and proceed with baking. By prepping these components ahead, you’ll create a warm, delightful dish with minimal effort, ensuring your holiday gatherings are both delicious and stress-free!
What to Serve with Brown Sugar Scalloped Sweet Potatoes with Marshmallows and Pecans
Creating the perfect meal is about harmony between flavors, textures, and heartwarming memories. Let your festive table glow with these delightful pairings!
- Savory Roasted Turkey: A traditional holiday favorite, its rich flavors and juicy meat beautifully contrast the sweet, creamy scalloped sweet potatoes.
- Honey-Glazed Ham: The sweet, savory profile offers a delicious balance to the sweetness of the potatoes, making for a festive plate that sings of celebration.
- Green Bean Almondine: This light and crunchy side adds a refreshing touch, providing crispness that complements the creamy texture of the scalloped sweet potatoes.
- Cranberry Sauce: A dollop of tangy cranberry sauce brightens the dish, cutting through the rich sweetness and creating a wonderful flavor dynamic.
- Maple-Glazed Brussels Sprouts: The slight bitterness of Brussels sprouts balanced by the maple syrup enhances the sweet elements of the potatoes, creating a deliciously complex dish.
- Cornbread Muffins: Soft and slightly sweet, cornbread muffins are a comforting addition that echoes the cozy vibes of the scalloped sweet potatoes, perfect for sopping up any sauce!
- Spiced Apple Cider: This warm drink elevates the meal with its delightful aroma of spices, perfectly complementing the holiday feel of your table.
- Pumpkin Pie: End your festive feast on a sweet note with this classic dessert; its spices mirror those in the scalloped sweet potatoes, creating a harmonious finish.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: Serve alongside for a delightful contrast; the creaminess of the ice cream pairs beautifully with the warm, sweet potatoes, creating the ultimate indulgence!
How to Store and Freeze Scalloped Sweet Potatoes
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3–5 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven to retain the creamy texture of the scalloped sweet potatoes.
Freezer: Freeze portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating to ensure even warming.
Reheating: To reheat, warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes, covering with foil to prevent drying out.
Prep Ahead: If you plan to make these scalloped sweet potatoes ahead of time, slice sweet potatoes and store them submerged in water in the fridge to prevent browning until you’re ready to cook.
Scalloped Sweet Potatoes Variations
Feel free to experiment and make these scalloped sweet potatoes your own with these delightful variations!
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Marshmallow Crème: Swap out mini marshmallows for marshmallow crème for a creamy topping that melts seamlessly. The result is a luscious, decadent layer that dances on your palate.
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Heavy Cream: Use heavy cream instead of water for a richer, more indulgent sauce. This twist creates a velvety texture, elevating the dish for special occasions.
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Butternut Squash: Replace sweet potatoes with butternut squash for a different flavor profile. It adds a nutty sweetness that complements the brown sugar beautifully.
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Spicy Kick: Add a dash of cayenne pepper or chili powder for a subtle heat that balances the sweetness. This unexpected twist brings a whole new dimension to your scalloped delight.
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Maple Syrup: Substitute brown sugar with maple syrup for a lighter, more complex sweetness. It’s a perfect fall-inspired swap that enhances the flavors beautifully.
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Fruit Addition: Toss in some diced apples or pears for a fruity twist that mingles with the sweet potatoes. The hint of fruit pairs perfectly with the warm spices.
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Nutty Variation: Experiment with different nuts like almonds or pecans for a flavor and texture boost. Chopped macadamias can offer an exotic crunch that pairs exceptionally well.
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Herb Infusion: Add fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme for an unexpected savory note. This herbaceous touch can bring a lovely contrast to the swirls of sweetness.
These variations can turn your scalloped sweet potatoes into a unique masterpiece every time. Embrace the creative process and don’t hesitate to explore more tasty ideas! Looking for additional sides? The indulgent Scalloped Potatoes Indulge or the comforting Onion Scalloped Potatoes could be perfect companions for your festive feast!
Expert Tips for Scalloped Sweet Potatoes
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Even Slicing: Use a mandoline: This ensures sweet potatoes cook uniformly, preventing some pieces from becoming mushy while others remain undercooked.
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Moisture Management: Cover while baking: Always cover your baking dish with foil initially to trap moisture, which results in tender sweet potatoes.
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Careful Broiling: Watch the marshmallows: When broiling, stay vigilant! Mini marshmallows can burn within seconds, so keep the oven light on for better visibility.
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Prevent Browning: Store sliced potatoes wisely: If preparing ahead, keep sliced sweet potatoes submerged in water to avoid browning.
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Flavor Enhancements: Play with spices: Don’t hesitate to add a pinch of ginger or a splash of vanilla extract to the brown sugar sauce for an intriguing twist in your scalloped sweet potatoes.
Scalloped Sweet Potatoes Recipe FAQs
How do I choose ripe sweet potatoes?
Absolutely! When selecting sweet potatoes, look for firm, smooth specimens without any dark spots or blemishes. Ideal sweet potatoes should feel heavy for their size, indicating good moisture content. I often recommend smaller, younger sweet potatoes for better sweetness and tenderness.
What is the best way to store leftover scalloped sweet potatoes?
Very! To store leftovers, place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh for up to 3-5 days. When reheating, I suggest gently warming them in the microwave or oven to maintain their creamy texture. Cover with foil while reheating to keep moisture intact.
Can I freeze scalloped sweet potatoes?
Yes, indeed! If you want to freeze your delicious scalloped sweet potatoes, portion them into freezer-safe containers. They’ll last for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, simply thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating gradually in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes. This step ensures even warming and preserves that delightful texture.
What should I do if my marshmallows burn while broiling?
Oh no, that can happen! If your marshmallows are browning too quickly, it’s best to remove the dish from the oven immediately while keeping an eye on the broiler. If you prefer a golden topping, you can try broiling for a shorter time, about 30 seconds to 1 minute, while keeping the oven light on for visibility. Alternatively, you can enjoy your scalloped sweet potatoes without the marshmallow topping if you prefer a more traditional presentation.
Are scalloped sweet potatoes safe for pets?
Yes, sweet potatoes can be safe for pets in moderation! Just ensure you don’t share the scalloped version with them since ingredients like butter, sugar, and marshmallows can upset their stomachs. Plain boiled or baked sweet potatoes without added ingredients can be a healthy treat for your furry friends.
Can I adjust this recipe for dietary restrictions?
Certainly! If you’re looking for a healthier version, consider using coconut oil instead of butter and maple syrup in place of brown sugar for a natural sweetener. For lactose-free options, unsweetened almond milk or coconut milk can serve as a great alternative to water for the sauce. Always feel free to swap ingredients to fit your dietary needs while keeping that irresistible sweet potato essence intact!
Decadent Scalloped Sweet Potatoes with Marshmallows & Pecans
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Gather your baking dish and equipment.
- Peel sweet potatoes and slice them into 1/4 inch thick medallions using a mandoline or knife.
- Melt 1/2 cup unsalted butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add 1 cup brown sugar, 1/4 cup water, 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon, 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves, and 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg. Stir until smooth.
- Brush 3/4 of the warm brown sugar sauce over the sweet potato medallions in the baking dish.
- Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 45-50 minutes or until the sweet potatoes are tender.
- Remove the dish from the oven, drizzle the remaining sauce over sweet potatoes, and sprinkle with pecans and marshmallows.
- Set oven to broil and broil for 1-2 minutes until marshmallows are golden brown.
- Let cool for 10-15 minutes before serving warm.
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