Easy Creamy Scalloped Sweet Potatoes Recipe

Looking for a show-stopping, comfort-filled dish that will win you over on the very first bite? Easy Creamy Scalloped Sweet Potatoes are the answer. This comforting casserole layers tender sweet potatoes in a velvety, herb-laced cream sauce, with Gruyere and parmesan cheeses creating an irresistibly bubbly, golden crust. Whether it’s a holiday table or a casual family dinner, these scalloped sweet potatoes bring together sweet-savory flavors that everyone will crave—plus, it’s shockingly simple to make.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every bite of Easy Creamy Scalloped Sweet Potatoes shines thanks to a handful of thoughtfully chosen ingredients. Each one adds something special, from richness and warmth to that signature melt-in-your-mouth experience.

• Heavy Cream: The backbone of the sauce, lending rich, silky texture and lusciousness to each layer.
• Whole Milk: Balances the cream for the perfect consistency without overwhelming the dish.
• Apple Cider (not vinegar): Adds a subtle brightness and mellow sweetness that pairs beautifully with the sweet potatoes.
• Garlic: Infuses a gentle savory flavor throughout—don’t skip it if you crave depth.
• Fresh Thyme: Brings earthiness and a fragrant herbal note that complements the creamy backdrop.
• Onion Powder: Adds a layer of umami undertone, making the sauce extra flavorful.
• Cayenne Pepper: A touch of heat rounds out the sweetness—not overpowering, just a gentle nudge.
• Shredded Gruyere Cheese: Melts into the sauce, offering buttery, nutty depth and gorgeous texture.
• Grated Parmesan Cheese: Sprinkled on top, it creates a golden, savory crust everyone will fight over.
• Sweet Potatoes: The star ingredient—thinly sliced for perfect tenderness with every creamy, cheesy bite.
• Fresh Rosemary: Adds a final pop of aromatics and a rustic, savory finish atop the bubbling cheese.

How to Make Easy Creamy Scalloped Sweet Potatoes

Step 1: Prep Your Dish and Oven

Preheat your oven to 350° F. Generously butter a 9×13-inch casserole dish, making sure to get into all the corners so nothing sticks. This is your blank canvas for deliciousness.

Step 2: Mix the Creamy Sauce

In a large glass measuring cup or mixing bowl, combine the heavy cream, whole milk, apple cider, chopped garlic, fresh thyme, onion powder, and cayenne pepper. Don’t forget a liberal pinch of salt and black pepper for well-balanced flavor. Stir in the shredded Gruyere cheese so it starts to melt into the creamy mixture.

Step 3: Layer the Sweet Potatoes and Sauce

Now the fun part—assembly! Pour one third of the creamy sauce mixture into the bottom of your prepared dish. Top with a third of the thinly sliced sweet potatoes, making an even layer. Repeat: add another third of the sauce, then another third of sweet potatoes, and continue until you use up all your sauce and potatoes. Try to finish with an even, smooth top layer of sweet potatoes for that classic scalloped look.

Step 4: Bake Until Tender

Cover the baking dish tightly with foil and bake for 1 hour and 45 minutes to 2 hours. This slow bake lets the sweet potatoes turn meltingly tender and the flavors meld beautifully.

Step 5: Add the Cheesy Topping and Finish Baking

Uncover the dish, sprinkle grated parmesan and the chopped rosemary evenly over the top. Return to the oven for an additional 20 minutes. The cheese will bubble, brown, and form a mouthwatering, golden crust—resist the urge to dive in immediately so it can set a little!

How to Serve Easy Creamy Scalloped Sweet Potatoes

Garnishes

A sprinkle of chopped fresh thyme just before serving adds freshness and a beautiful pop of green. If you want to get extra fancy, a light dusting of additional parmesan or a few rosemary leaves looks stunning.

Side Dishes

Easy Creamy Scalloped Sweet Potatoes pair well with everything from roasted meats to a crisp salad. For a classic holiday feast, serve alongside turkey or ham. For a cozy weeknight, they’re a fabulous partner for grilled chicken or a hearty vegetarian main.

Creative Ways to Present

For a dinner party, try spooning individual portions into ramekins for an elegant touch. A drizzle of herb oil or toasted nuts atop each serving adds texture and flair. Or, go rustic and serve straight from the baking dish, family-style, for ultimate comfort food vibes.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Cool any leftover Easy Creamy Scalloped Sweet Potatoes to room temperature before covering. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days—just as creamy and flavorful as day one!

Freezing

This dish is ideal for freezing. Assemble, bake, and cool completely, then wrap well and freeze for up to two months. Defrost overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

To reheat, cover with foil and warm in a 350° F oven until bubbling hot again, about 20-30 minutes. If you want it crispier, remove the foil for the last few minutes to let the cheese topping re-crisp.

FAQs

Can I use different cheeses in Easy Creamy Scalloped Sweet Potatoes?

Absolutely! Gruyere and parmesan bring great flavor, but you can substitute Swiss, sharp cheddar, or even fontina for a different twist. Just make sure it’s a good melting cheese.

Can I slice the potatoes ahead of time?

Yes, but keep them submerged in a bowl of cold water to prevent browning. Drain and pat dry before layering in your casserole.

Is peeling the sweet potatoes necessary?

Peeling is optional! If you love a bit of texture and added nutrients, leave the skin on—just scrub them well. For the traditional look and silky texture, go ahead and peel.

How spicy will this dish be with cayenne pepper?

The cayenne in this recipe just adds a gentle warmth and balances the sweetness. Feel free to adjust to your taste or omit if you’re very sensitive to heat.

Can I make Easy Creamy Scalloped Sweet Potatoes dairy free?

You sure can! Use unsweetened coconut cream or cashew cream in place of the dairy, and swap the cheeses for your favorite dairy-free versions. The result will still be creamy and delicious.

Final Thoughts

This is the kind of recipe that turns a simple side dish into the star of your table. Try making Easy Creamy Scalloped Sweet Potatoes just once, and you’ll find yourself reaching for it every time you want to wow a crowd or add a little extra cheer to your meal. Gather your ingredients, share with people you love, and let the creamy, cheesy magic unfold!

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