Name: Heavenly Scalloped Sweet Potatoes with Marshmallows & Pecan Crunch
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 65 min
Ingredients: 3 pounds Sweet Potatoes (peeled and sliced into thin medallions); ¼ cup Unsalted Butter (or substitute with salted butter); ½ cup Brown Sugar (light or dark variety); ½ cup Water (or substitute with heavy cream for a richer sauce); 1 teaspoon Ground Cinnamon; ⅛ teaspoon Ground Cloves (use sparingly); ⅛ teaspoon Ground Nutmeg (a little goes a long way); 1 pinch Salt (just a pinch to balance sweetness); 1 cup Chopped Pecans (or use walnuts as an alternative); 2 cups Mini Marshmallows (add extra if desired)

As I sift through the memories of my holiday feasts, one dish stands out like a glowing centerpiece: Scalloped Sweet Potatoes. This delightful recipe instantly transforms humble sweet potatoes into an irresistible masterpiece, drizzled with a brown sugar sauce that dances with warm spices. Topped off with sticky mini marshmallows and crunchy pecans, these scalloped sweet potatoes are more than just a side; they’re a comforting embrace during family gatherings. Plus, they come together surprisingly quickly, allowing you to spend less time in the kitchen and more time creating memories with loved ones. What could be more perfect for Thanksgiving or Christmas? Let’s dive into this easy yet fancy recipe that will surely steal the spotlight at your holiday table!

Why are these scalloped potatoes a must-try?

Simplicity: This recipe is straightforward, so even novice cooks can shine!

Bursting with Flavor: A rich blend of brown sugar and warm spices enhances the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes.

Eye-Catching Presentation: Gooey marshmallows and crunchy pecans create a stunning visual and textural contrast.

Versatile Side: Perfect for festive meals, these scalloped sweet potatoes complement any holiday main dish, whether it’s roasted turkey or spiral ham.

Time-Saving: Bake ahead of time and simply reheat, letting you enjoy the celebration stress-free.

Crowd-Pleasing Delight: Family and friends will rave about this delicious side dish that elevates festive feasts!

Scalloped Sweet Potatoes Ingredients

• Here’s everything you need to create these delightful scalloped sweet potatoes!

For the Dish

Sweet Potatoes – The star of the show, providing a naturally sweet base; peel and slice into thin medallions for even cooking.
Unsalted Butter – Adds a creamy richness to your sauce; feel free to substitute with salted butter but reduce added salt.
Brown Sugar – Infuses your dish with a sweet, caramel flavor; both light and dark varieties are perfect for this scalloped sweet potatoes recipe.
Water – Necessary for dissolving your ingredients and creating a smooth sauce; heavy cream can be used for an extra decadent touch.

For the Spice Blend

Ground Cinnamon – Warm, comforting spice enhancing the sweet potatoes’ natural flavor.
Ground Cloves – Adds a hint of warm sweetness; use sparingly for a balanced flavor.
Ground Nutmeg – Deepens the warming notes in this dish; a little goes a long way!
Salt – Essential for balancing sweetness; just a pinch will do.

For the Toppings

Chopped Pecans – Bring a delightful crunch and nutty flavor; walnuts can be used as a tasty alternative if preferred.
Mini Marshmallows – Provide a sweet, gooey topping to melt into the dish; add extra if you love that marshmallowy goodness!

Make your holiday feast unforgettable with this unforgettable scalloped sweet potatoes dish that transforms simple ingredients into a standout creation! 🌟

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Heavenly Scalloped Sweet Potatoes with Marshmallows & Pecan Crunch

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This crucial step ensures that your scalloped sweet potatoes cook evenly and develop a beautiful golden color. Use this time to gather your ingredients and equipment, including a baking dish and a mandoline slicer for perfectly uniform sweet potato medallions.

Step 2: Prepare the Sweet Potatoes
Peel the sweet potatoes and slice them into thin medallions, aiming for about 1/8 inch thickness for even cooking. If you have a mandoline slicer, this will make the task quick and easy. Once sliced, arrange the sweet potato medallions in a greased baking dish, overlapping them slightly to create a lovely pattern and ensure every bite is packed with flavor.

Step 3: Create the Sauce
In a small saucepan, combine ¼ cup of unsalted butter, ½ cup of brown sugar, ½ cup of water, and your spices: 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, ⅛ teaspoon of ground cloves, ⅛ teaspoon of ground nutmeg, and a pinch of salt. Heat over medium heat, stirring until the butter has melted and the ingredients are well combined, creating a smooth sauce that will enhance your scalloped sweet potatoes.

Step 4: Coat the Sweet Potatoes
Pour about ¾ of the warm sauce over the arranged sweet potato medallions in the baking dish. Use a brush or spoon to coat the medallions evenly in the sauce. The sweet mixture will begin to soak into the potatoes, infusing them with delicious flavor. Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil, ensuring it retains moisture during baking.

Step 5: Bake the Sweet Potatoes
Place the covered baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 45 to 50 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when the sweet potatoes are fork-tender and the aroma of warming spices fills your kitchen. The foil helps steam the potatoes, making them soft and flavorful, a true highlight of these scalloped sweet potatoes.

Step 6: Add the Finishing Touches
After the initial baking time, carefully remove the foil and drizzle the remaining sauce over the top of the baked sweet potatoes. This step adds an extra layer of sweetness to your dish, making it even more irresistible! Now it’s time to sprinkle the chopped pecans and mini marshmallows evenly over the top, creating a beautiful contrast in texture.

Step 7: Broil for a Toasted Finish
Return the baking dish to the oven and switch to the broil setting. Broil for just 1 to 2 minutes, keeping a close watch as the marshmallows start to toast and turn golden. This last step adds a delightful gooeyness with a crisp exterior, elevating the scalloped sweet potatoes into an impressive holiday centerpiece.

Step 8: Cool and Serve
Once the marshmallows are perfectly toasted, remove the baking dish from the oven and allow it to cool slightly. Letting the dish rest for a few minutes makes it easier to serve. Scoop generous portions of your heavenly scalloped sweet potatoes onto plates, letting the rich, buttery sweetness and toasted toppings shine as a perfect holiday side.

Make Ahead Options

These Buttery Scalloped Sweet Potatoes are perfect for making ahead and enjoying during busy holidays! You can slice the sweet potatoes and store them submerged in water in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours to prevent browning. Additionally, prepare the delicious brown sugar sauce and refrigerate it in a separate airtight container for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, simply drain the sweet potatoes, layer them in your baking dish, drizzle with the sauce, and bake covered as instructed. Before serving, add the pecans and mini marshmallows, broil for a couple of minutes, and relish the delightful, hassle-free flavors that are just as comforting and indulgent!

Storage Tips for Scalloped Sweet Potatoes

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-5 days. This keeps your scalloped sweet potatoes fresh and tasty for your next meal.

Freezer: If you’d like to save them for later, freeze the scalloped sweet potatoes in a suitable container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating: Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through, ideally at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes. Drizzle a bit of water or cream over them to maintain moisture.

Avoid Browning: If prepping in advance, cut sweet potatoes can be submerged in water to prevent browning until you’re ready to bake, ensuring they look vibrant and appealing.

What to Serve with Heavenly Scalloped Sweet Potatoes with Marshmallows & Pecan Crunch

Elevate your holiday dining experience by pairing this dish with delightful sides and drinks that perfectly complement its rich flavors.

Roasted Turkey: The savory taste of roasted turkey brings a classic holiday spirit, balancing the sweetness of the scalloped sweet potatoes beautifully.
Spiral Ham: Juicy, sweet spiral ham offers a satisfying contrast to the buttery, caramel notes of your sweet potato dish. They harmonize splendidly at any festive gathering.
Cranberry Sauce: Tart and tangy cranberry sauce cuts through the richness of the sweet potatoes, adding a refreshing burst of flavor that elevates your meal.
Cornbread Casserole: The comforting texture of cornbread casserole creates a delightful contrast, while its mild sweetness makes it a perfect companion to your scalloped sweet potatoes.
Garlic Green Beans: Crisp-tender green beans sautéed with garlic add a healthy and vibrant touch, balancing the richness and enhancing the overall meal experience.
Apple Cider: This warm, spiced apple cider infuses your festive table with seasonal flavors, making it a comforting drink option that pairs well with all your holiday dishes.
Pumpkin Pie: A slice of pumpkin pie for dessert rounds off the meal fantastically, tying together the warm spices you’ve used in the scalloped sweet potatoes and adding a festive finish.
Whipped Cream: Top off your dessert with light and fluffy whipped cream to enhance the sweet notes of pumpkin pie, continuing the celebration of flavors that embody the holiday spirit.

Expert Tips for Scalloped Sweet Potatoes

• Slice Evenly: Ensure that your sweet potatoes are cut to the same thickness to guarantee even cooking; using a mandoline slicer can make this task easier.

• Watch the Broil: Keep a close eye while broiling the marshmallows, as they can go from perfectly golden to burnt in seconds; hover nearby to prevent mishaps.

• Prevent Browning: If you’re prepping ahead, submerge sliced sweet potatoes in water to prevent them from browning; this will keep them vibrant until you’re ready to cook.

• Richness Boost: For an extra indulgent flavor, substitute the water with heavy cream in the sauce mixture, enhancing the overall taste of your scalloped sweet potatoes.

• Adjust the Sweetness: Feel free to customize the amount of brown sugar in the sauce to suit your taste; you can easily add more if you prefer a sweeter dish.

• Topping Alternatives: Don’t hesitate to mix things up by replacing mini marshmallows with crushed graham crackers or shredded coconut for a unique twist on your scalloped sweet potatoes.

Scalloped Sweet Potatoes Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to explore and personalize this delightful dish with these easy-to-implement variations and substitutions!

Dairy-Free: Use coconut oil instead of butter and substitute heavy cream with almond milk for a deliciously creamy result.
Gourmet Twist: Incorporate a layer of crumbled blue cheese between the sweet potato medallions for an exquisite flavor contrast.
Nut-Free Option: Simply omit the pecans and top with a sprinkle of cinnamon for that warm, comforting touch without the crunch.
Extra Spice: Add a dash of cayenne pepper or ginger to the spice blend to elevate the flavor profile with a hint of heat.
Syrupy Sweetness: Drizzle maple syrup instead of brown sugar to lend a delightful twist to the original recipe’s sweetness.
Fruity Flavor: Introduce chopped apples or pears between layers for a refreshing fruitiness that compliments the sweet potatoes splendidly.
Crunchy Topping: Swap marshmallows for crushed graham crackers mixed with a hint of cinnamon for a terrific toasted crunch!
Savory Variation: Layer in thin slices of cooked bacon for a smoky finish that harmonizes beautifully with the sweet elements.

Remember, whether you’re enjoying your scalloped sweet potatoes alongside a beautifully roasted turkey or spiral ham, like these festive dishes, the options are nearly endless! Don’t hesitate to get creative as you make this recipe your own.

Scalloped Sweet Potatoes Recipe FAQs

What type of sweet potatoes should I use for scalloped sweet potatoes?
I recommend using firm, smooth-skinned sweet potatoes without dark spots or blemishes. Be sure to select medium to large sweet potatoes for the best results, as they will yield a sweeter and creamier texture when baked.

How should I store leftover scalloped sweet potatoes?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-5 days. This keeps them fresh and allows you to enjoy this delicious dish again. For an even tastier experience, reheat in the microwave or oven, drizzling a splash of water or cream over the top to maintain their moisture.

Can I freeze scalloped sweet potatoes?
Absolutely! To freeze your scalloped sweet potatoes, let them cool completely after baking, then place them in a freezer-safe container or wrap in aluminum foil. They can be stored for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat at 350°F for 15-20 minutes until warmed through.

What if I have extra sauce left over?
If you have leftover sauce after coating your sweet potatoes, you can save it for later or drizzle it over the dish before broiling. Just store the excess sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week, making it a great topping for pancakes or waffles!

Are scalloped sweet potatoes suitable for vegans or those with dietary restrictions?
This dish can easily be adapted for different dietary needs! To make it vegan, substitute unsalted butter with coconut oil or a dairy-free butter alternative, and use a suitable plant-based milk instead of water. Always check for allergies, especially regarding nuts, as pecans can be replaced with sunflower seeds for those with nut allergies.

How can I make scalloped sweet potatoes spicier?
If you enjoy a bit of heat, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or ginger to your spice mixture. Mixing in some grated fresh ginger can enhance the dish’s warmth and contrast beautifully with the sweetness of the sweet potatoes. Adjust according to your spice tolerance and enjoy experimenting!