Introduction
There’s something truly heartwarming about a dish of scalloped sweet potatoes. This comforting side brings a wonderful blend of sweetness and creaminess to the table, making it the perfect accompaniment for any meal. With layers of tender sweet potatoes enveloped in a rich, creamy sauce and topped with melty cheddar cheese, this recipe will tantalize your taste buds and create moments of joy for family and friends alike. Let’s dive into this deliciousness!
Ingredients
- 4 large sweet potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 55 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Yield: 6 servings
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C), allowing it to warm up while you prepare your ingredients.
- In a large bowl, combine the heavy cream, packed brown sugar, melted butter, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir until the mixture is velvety and well combined.
- Lightly grease a baking dish with cooking spray or a touch of butter. Start layering by placing half of the thinly sliced sweet potatoes in the dish.
- Pour half of the luscious cream mixture directly over the first layer of sweet potatoes. This adds an irresistible richness!
- Add the remaining sweet potato slices on top, creating a lovely, even layer.
- Pour the rest of the creamy mixture over the final layer of sweet potatoes, ensuring everything is well coated.
- Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese generously over the top layer, inviting a melt-in-your-mouth experience!
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil to trap in all the delicious flavors and moisture, then bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes.
- After 30 minutes, carefully remove the foil and allow the dish to bake for an additional 20-25 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes are tender and the top is beautifully golden brown.
- Once done, remove the baking dish from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. If you like, garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color before serving.
Notes or Tips
- For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a sprinkle of crispy bacon bits on top before serving.
- If you prefer a slightly more savory profile, feel free to add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the cream mixture for a subtle kick.
- Ensure the sweet potatoes are thinly sliced for even cooking; a mandoline slicer can be handy for this.
Cooking Techniques
This recipe involves layering, which not only creates a beautiful presentation but also helps blend all the flavors together. Baking with foil initially traps steam, allowing the sweet potatoes to cook thoroughly before browning, providing that perfect tender bite. Finishing uncovered enhances the cheese’s texture, making it gooey and deliciously satisfying!
FAQ
- Can I use other types of cheese? Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with cheeses like Gruyère or even a tangy goat cheese for a delightful twist.
- Is there a way to make this dish ahead of time? Yes! You can assemble the dish a day in advance, cover it tightly, and store it in the refrigerator. Just add an extra 10 minutes to the baking time if baking from cold.
- What can I serve with scalloped sweet potatoes? These sweet potatoes make a wonderful side to roasted meats, grilled vegetables, or even as part of a festive holiday spread.
Conclusion
Scalloped sweet potatoes with brown sugar is a delightful dish that not only warms your heart but also brings a smile to your face with every creamy, cheesy bite. It’s a side dish that transitions beautifully from casual weeknight dinners to grand holiday feasts, becoming a cherished recipe in your collection. So gather your ingredients, and let’s make some magic in the kitchen!