Best Scalloped Sweet Potatoes – Sweet, Spiced & So Good

Best Scalloped Sweet Potatoes are your ticket to stealing the spotlight at any holiday table. Picture this: buttery sweet potato slices layered in a warm, spiced brown sugar glaze, topped with gooey toasted marshmallows and a crunchy sprinkle of pecans. Yep, it tastes as heavenly as it sounds. If your Thanksgiving or Christmas menu has been begging for a side dish that feels both nostalgic and fresh, this is the one. It’s easy enough to whip up on a busy Wednesday but delicious enough to sit proudly next to your golden roasted turkey.

Plus, if you’ve got picky eaters (looking at you, Aunt Carol), this sweet, cinnamon-kissed dish might just be the magic they didn’t know they needed. This recipe combines the cozy comfort of classic sweet potato casserole with the elegance of a scalloped bake, making it an unforgettable addition to your feast.

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What is Best Scalloped Sweet Potatoes?

So, what exactly are Best Scalloped Sweet Potatoes? Think of them as the sassier, sweeter cousin to traditional scalloped potatoes. Instead of white potatoes and cream, this version calls for sweet potatoes sliced thin (thank you mandoline slicer), gently baked in a spiced brown sugar-butter sauce. It’s got all the nostalgic flavors of fall – cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves – without the heaviness of cream.

Then, just when you think it can’t get better, you broil mini marshmallows on top until they’re toasty and golden. The pecans add a lovely crunch that balances all that melty, sugary goodness. It’s like sweet potato casserole got a glow-up and showed up ready for the holidays. Whether you serve it in a pie dish or a cute little au gratin pan, this side dish brings serious cozy vibes and major flavor to the table.

Reasons to Try Best Scalloped Sweet Potatoes

If you’ve ever felt like your holiday sides were a little…meh, this is your flavorful fix. First off, Best Scalloped Sweet Potatoes are ridiculously easy to make, but they look and taste like something straight from grandma’s secret stash of recipes. Secondly, they’re a fantastic balance of sweet and spiced – perfect for those who can’t decide between savory sides or dessert (why not both?). Third? It’s totally crowd-pleasing. Kids love the marshmallows.

Grown-ups love the spices. Everyone loves the buttery glaze. Plus, if you’re short on time, this recipe is mercifully forgiving. You can even prep the potatoes in advance and throw everything together last minute. Bonus: it pairs beautifully with all your other holiday faves like turkey, ham, or even a plant-based main. Basically, it’s the kind of dish that makes people go back for seconds – and that’s saying something when it’s competing with pie.

Ingredients Needed to Make Best Scalloped Sweet Potatoes

• 5–6 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and sliced into thin medallions
• ¼ cup unsalted butter (or salted, just skip the added salt)
• ¼ cup brown sugar (light or dark – your call!)
• ½ cup water
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ¼ cup chopped pecans (or walnuts, if that’s your vibe)
• ½ cup mini marshmallows (don’t be shy, throw in a few extras if you’re feeling festive)

Instructions to Make Best Scalloped Sweet Potatoes

Let’s walk through this dish together, step by step, so you feel confident from the first sweet potato slice to the final toasted marshmallow. Whether you’re hosting a holiday feast or just need something comforting for Sunday dinner, this breakdown will make sure your Best Scalloped Sweet Potatoes turn out delicious every time.

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven and Gather Your Gear

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (204°C). A hot oven is key to getting the sweet potatoes perfectly tender without drying them out. Grab your go-to baking dish — a pie dish, shallow casserole, or even an oven-safe skillet will do. If you’re wondering which pan is best, a shallow dish works well for even cooking and allows more of that sticky-sweet topping to caramelize. Also, grab aluminum foil for covering during baking and a mandoline slicer if you have one — it’ll make slicing faster and more uniform. Not sure how to safely use a mandoline? You might enjoy our kitchen safety tips and gear guide where we break down essential tools and prep shortcuts.

Step 2: Peel and Slice the Sweet Potatoes

Peel 5 to 6 medium sweet potatoes. Using a mandoline or a sharp knife, slice them into thin, even medallions — about ⅛-inch thick. The thinner the slices, the faster and more evenly they’ll bake. This step by step slicing process is key to achieving that classic “scalloped” look and tender texture. Tip: If you’re prepping ahead, keep the slices in cold water to prevent browning until you’re ready to assemble. Looking for a deeper dive into prep hacks? Our post on one-pan meal prep strategies might come in handy.

Step 3: Layer the Potatoes in Your Dish

Now that your slices are ready, arrange them in overlapping rows or concentric circles in your baking dish. Think of it like laying shingles on a roof — overlapping each slice just enough to create a layered effect. Don’t stress about perfection here. Rustic looks delicious too! This step by step layering is what creates that stunning, Instagram-worthy presentation once it bakes.

Step 4: Make the Buttery Brown Sugar Sauce

Time to build the flavor. In a small saucepan over medium heat, add ¼ cup unsalted butter, ¼ cup brown sugar, ½ cup water, and your spice trifecta: 1 teaspoon each of cinnamon, ground cloves, and nutmeg. Add ¼ teaspoon salt to round things out. Stir everything together as the butter melts. The kitchen will start smelling like fall candles — only better (and edible). This glaze brings warmth, sweetness, and that signature cozy holiday vibe. For a twist, you can swap in maple syrup or even a splash of orange juice — we touch on that in our sweet potato variation guide.

Step 5: Glaze and Cover for the First Bake

Using a pastry brush or spoon, drizzle about ¾ of your sauce evenly over the sweet potato slices. Make sure each slice gets a little love — this is where the flavor magic happens. Cover the dish tightly with foil. This step helps the potatoes steam and soften gently, locking in moisture without drying out. Slide the dish into the oven and bake for 45 to 50 minutes. You’re looking for the potatoes to be fork-tender at the end of this step by step stage.

Step 6: Uncover and Add Marshmallows + Pecans

After baking, remove the foil and carefully pour or brush the remaining sauce on top. Then, sprinkle ½ cup mini marshmallows and ¼ cup chopped pecans over the top. This combo adds texture, gooey sweetness, and a festive look. Don’t like pecans? Walnuts or sliced almonds work too — check out more ideas in our ingredient swap guide.

Step 7: Broil for a Toasty Finish

Turn your oven to broil and place the dish back inside. This part is quick — 1 to 2 minutes tops. Keep a close eye because marshmallows toast fast (and burn faster!). You want golden, slightly crispy tops with melted centers. If you’re new to broiling, this is a great time to brush up on your oven settings and tips to avoid common mistakes.

Step 8: Rest, Serve, and Enjoy

Once toasted, remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for 10 to 15 minutes. This gives the sauce a chance to thicken slightly and makes serving easier. Now you’re ready to dig in! Serve warm alongside your favorite mains or holiday classics. And don’t be surprised if this becomes the side dish your family requests every single year.

By breaking the recipe down into this clear, step by step guide, you’ll find making Best Scalloped Sweet Potatoes is not just doable — it’s downright enjoyable. Want more sweet and savory ideas? Our Glazed Carrots are another holiday must-try that pairs beautifully with this dish.

What to Serve with Best Scalloped Sweet Potatoes

This dish screams holiday table, so naturally, it cozies up beautifully with classics like roast turkey, glazed ham, or herb-stuffed chicken. But don’t stop there! It’s also amazing alongside earthy dishes like Braised Short Ribs with Garlic Mashed Potatoes or even something lighter like Healthy Sautéed Vegetables for balance. Want to keep the comfort food train going? Pair it with Spinach and Artichoke Gnocchi Bake for a full-on indulgent spread. And for a drink? A spiced apple cider or chilled white wine pairs perfectly with those warm flavors.

Key Tips for Making Best Scalloped Sweet Potatoes

1. Use a mandoline slicer for even, thin cuts – it makes a difference in cooking time and presentation.
2. Don’t skip the foil during the first bake. It helps the potatoes cook evenly without drying out.
3. Keep your eyes on the broiler. Marshmallows can go from perfect to burnt faster than a toddler with markers.
4. Make ahead tip: You can assemble everything (minus the marshmallows and pecans) a few hours ahead and refrigerate. Just bake a little longer.
5. Add-ins: Try a little orange zest or a splash of maple syrup in the sauce for a flavor twist.
6. Picky eaters at the table? This is a great intro-to-vegetables dish for little ones who love sweet flavors.

Storage and Reheating Tips Best Scalloped Sweet Potatoes

Got leftovers? Lucky you. Store your Best Scalloped Sweet Potatoes in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to reheat, pop them in a 350°F oven, covered with foil, for about 15 minutes or until warmed through. You can also microwave them in short bursts (30–45 seconds), but the marshmallows might get a little…weird. Still tasty, though! If you know you’ll have extras, consider broiling the marshmallows after reheating so they’re fresh and toasty again. And yes – these reheat like a dream, which makes them perfect for meal prep or round two of holiday leftovers.

FAQs

Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble the dish minus the marshmallows and pecans, cover and refrigerate. Bake when you’re ready, then add the toppings and broil.

Can I use canned sweet potatoes?
I wouldn’t recommend it. They’re too soft and won’t hold up to slicing and layering.

What if I don’t have a mandoline slicer?
You can use a sharp knife, just try to keep your slices thin and consistent for even cooking.

Can I swap the nuts?
Definitely. Walnuts, hazelnuts, or even pepitas would be great.

Is this overly sweet?
Nope – the warm spices and touch of salt balance the sweetness beautifully.

Final Thoughts

If your holiday menu needs a little glow-up, Best Scalloped Sweet Potatoes bring the flavor, the nostalgia, and the “wow, did you really make this?” reactions. It’s got just the right balance of cozy and showstopper. Whether you’re hosting a big holiday feast or just want something special for a Tuesday night, this dish is one of those easy wins that makes everyone feel a little more festive. And if you’re craving even more warm, comforting recipes, check out our Maple Pecan Brie Stuffed Sweet Potatoes – they’re practically dessert in disguise.

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