Name: Creamy Scalloped Sweet Potatoes Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 55 min
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3–4 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced; 1½ cups heavy cream; 2 tbsp butter; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tsp salt; ½ tsp black pepper; ½ tsp onion powder; 1 tsp fresh thyme (or ½ tsp dried); 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Gruyère)

Description

This creamy scalloped sweet potatoes recipe is a comforting and delicious side dish featuring tender, thinly sliced sweet potatoes baked in a rich, garlicky cream sauce and topped with melty cheese. Perfect for holiday dinners or cozy weeknight meals, this dish combines the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with savory herbs and a luscious texture.

Ingredients

Scale

Sweet Potatoes

3–4 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced

Cream Sauce

1½ cups heavy cream
2 tbsp butter
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
½ tsp onion powder
1 tsp fresh thyme (or ½ tsp dried)

Topping (Optional)

1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Gruyère)

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Instructions

Preheat & Prepare: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×9 or 8×8 inch baking dish to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
Make Cream Sauce: In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant but not browned. Stir in the heavy cream, salt, black pepper, onion powder, and thyme. Heat the mixture gently until it just begins to simmer, then remove from heat.
Layer the Potatoes: Arrange half of the thinly sliced sweet potatoes evenly in the baking dish. Pour half of the cream sauce over the potatoes. Repeat with the remaining sliced sweet potatoes and cream sauce, creating two layers.
Add Cheese (Optional): If using, sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the top layer for a creamy, golden crust.
Bake: Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 35 minutes. Then uncover and continue baking for an additional 20–25 minutes until the top is golden brown and the cream is bubbling.
Cool & Serve: Remove the dish from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes. This allows the sauce to thicken slightly, making it easier to serve. Garnish with fresh thyme if desired before serving.

Notes

For thinner slices, use a mandoline slicer to ensure even cooking.
Substitute half-and-half or whole milk for heavy cream for a lighter version, though the sauce won’t be as rich.
Optional cheese adds richness; Gruyère offers a nuttier flavor, while cheddar delivers sharper taste.
Letting the dish rest before serving helps the sauce set and improves texture.
Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated gently in the oven.