Introduction
Say hello to your new favorite fall dish: Creamy Scalloped Sweet Potatoes! Savor layers of golden goodness, cheesy delight, and a hint of thyme in every bite. This comforting recipe is perfect for chilly evenings and is bound to impress your family and friends. With its creamy texture and delectable flavors, it’s a must-try this season!
Detailed Ingredients with measures
- Sweet Potatoes:
- 2 pounds sweet potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Creamy Sauce:
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Cheesy Topping:
- 1 cup shredded cheese (your favorite melting kind)
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
Directions
1. Preheat your oven to a cozy 375°F (190°C).
2. Arrange your sweet potatoes in a baking dish, seasoning each layer with a sprinkle of salt and pepper.
3. In a saucepan, melt the butter and sauté the garlic until fragrant. Stir in the flour and cook for a minute.
4. Gradually whisk in the milk, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer. Stir in thyme, salt, and black pepper.
5. Pour the creamy sauce over your layered sweet potatoes, letting it seep deliciously through.
6. Top with your chosen shredded cheese for that ooey-gooey perfection.
7. Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Then uncover and bake for another 15 minutes or until golden and bubbly.
8. Let cool slightly before diving in!
Nutritional Information
Each serving offers around:
Calories: 300 kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 7g
Fat: 12g
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to a cozy 375°F (190°C).
Step 2: Arrange the Sweet Potatoes
Arrange your sweet potatoes in a baking dish, seasoning each layer with a sprinkle of salt and pepper.
Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce
In a saucepan, melt the butter and sauté the garlic until fragrant. Stir in the flour and cook for a minute.
Step 4: Whisk in the Milk
Gradually whisk in the milk, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer. Stir in thyme, salt, and black pepper.
Step 5: Pour the Sauce Over Sweet Potatoes
Pour the creamy sauce over your layered sweet potatoes, letting it seep deliciously through.
Step 6: Add the Cheese
Top with your chosen shredded cheese for that ooey-gooey perfection.
Step 7: Bake the Dish
Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Then uncover and bake for another 15 minutes or until golden and bubbly.
Step 8: Cool Before Serving
Let cool slightly before diving in!
Notes
Ingredient Variations
Feel free to use different types of cheese for the topping to customize flavors according to your preference.
Storage Suggestions
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs wonderfully with a side salad or as a comforting accompaniment to grilled meats.
Cook techniques
Layering
Arrange the sweet potatoes in overlapping layers in your baking dish to ensure even cooking and flavor distribution.
Sautéing
Melt the butter and sauté garlic until fragrant to enhance the flavor profile of your creamy sauce.
Whisking
Gradually whisk in the milk to avoid lumps in your creamy sauce and achieve a smooth consistency.
Baking
Cover the dish with foil during the first part of baking to trap steam, ensuring the sweet potatoes soften before browning the cheese topping.
FAQ
Can I use other types of potatoes?
While sweet potatoes provide a unique flavor and texture, you can experiment with other root vegetables, but the final dish will differ.
What type of cheese works best?
Cheeses like cheddar, Gruyère, or Monterey Jack are excellent melting options that add creaminess and flavor to the dish.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dish up to the baking step, cover it, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time if baking straight from the fridge.
Is there a dairy-free alternative for the creamy sauce?
Yes, you can substitute the milk with almond milk or coconut milk and use a dairy-free butter alternative.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for the best texture.
Conclusion
Creamy Scalloped Sweet Potatoes make for a delicious and comforting fall dish that is easy to prepare and sure to impress your family and friends. Enjoy every cheesy bite!
