These Scalloped Sweet Potatoes are the ultimate comfort food, featuring tender, thin slices of sweet potato in a buttery brown sugar sauce spiced with cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. Topped with toasted mini marshmallows and chopped pecans, this dish offers the perfect balance of sweetness and texture. It’s an excellent addition to your Thanksgiving or Christmas menu and will have everyone reaching for seconds.

Scalloped Sweet Potatoes

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dish is a showstopper for any holiday meal. The rich, spiced sauce brings out the natural sweetness of the sweet potatoes, while the crunchy pecans and gooey marshmallows create a delightful contrast. It’s simple to make but packed with flavor, making it the perfect side dish for your festive gatherings. Whether you’re hosting a big dinner or just looking for a comforting side, these scalloped sweet potatoes will elevate your meal.

Ingredients

Tip: you’ll find full ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below

5-6 medium sweet potatoes (peeled and cut into thin medallions)
¼ cup unsalted butter (see notes below)
¼ cup brown sugar (light or dark)
½ cup water
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1 teaspoon ground cloves
1 teaspoon ground nutmeg
¼ teaspoon salt
¼ cup chopped pecans (or walnuts)
½ cup mini marshmallows (see notes below)

Recipe Notes:

Mandoline Slicer: Using a mandoline slicer will make slicing the sweet potatoes much easier and more uniform. If you don’t have one, you can use a knife, but a mandoline is highly recommended for even slices.
Butter: If you only have salted butter, you can use it, but omit the extra ¼ teaspoon of added salt in the recipe.
Marshmallows: Feel free to add extra mini marshmallows for a gooey, indulgent finish!

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This high temperature helps to roast the sweet potatoes to perfection.

Step 2: Slice and Arrange the Sweet Potatoes

Peel the sweet potatoes and slice them into thin medallions. Arrange the slices in a single layer in your baking dish. A pie dish works well for this recipe, but you can also use an au gratin dish, shallow casserole dish, or oven-safe skillet.

Step 3: Prepare the Sauce

In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the unsalted butter, brown sugar, water, cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, and salt. Stir the ingredients together until the butter has melted and the mixture is smooth. This sauce will coat the sweet potatoes and add all the delicious flavors!

Step 4: Coat the Sweet Potatoes

Use a pastry brush to evenly distribute ¾ of the sauce over the sweet potato medallions. Make sure each slice is well-coated. Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 45-50 minutes, until the potatoes are tender.

Step 5: Add the Toppings

After baking, remove the foil and drizzle the remaining ¼ of the sauce over the sweet potatoes. Sprinkle the chopped pecans and mini marshmallows on top.

Step 6: Broil to Toast the Marshmallows

Return the baking dish to the oven, this time setting the oven to broil. Broil for 1-2 minutes, keeping a close eye on the marshmallows to ensure they toast evenly without burning. This step adds a lovely golden, crispy top.

Step 7: Cool and Serve

Once the marshmallows are toasted, remove the dish from the oven and allow it to cool for 10-15 minutes before serving. This helps the sauce thicken slightly and makes it easier to serve.

Variations

Add Nuts: Swap the pecans for walnuts, almonds, or even candied pecans for extra flavor and texture.
Vegan Version: Use dairy-free butter and non-dairy milk to make the dish vegan-friendly.
More Spice: Add a pinch of ginger or allspice for an extra layer of warmth.
Add Apples: For a unique twist, layer some thinly sliced apples with the sweet potatoes before baking.

Heating and Storage

This dish can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. You can also reheat individual servings in the microwave. For best results, broil the marshmallows just before serving for that perfect crispy top.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use regular potatoes instead of sweet potatoes?

While regular potatoes would work, sweet potatoes offer a natural sweetness that complements the spices and glaze. Stick to sweet potatoes for the best flavor!

How do I prevent the marshmallows from burning?

Broiling marshmallows can be tricky, so keep a close eye on them during the final step. They only need 1-2 minutes to toast.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble the dish up to the point of baking, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it overnight. Just bake it the next day, and add the marshmallows and nuts before broiling.

Can I make this gluten-free?

This recipe is naturally gluten-free! Just make sure your ingredients, such as the butter and sugar, are gluten-free.

Can I add more sweetness?

Feel free to add extra brown sugar or a drizzle of maple syrup if you want the dish to be even sweeter.

What other toppings can I add?

For a savory touch, sprinkle some crumbled bacon on top, or for a different texture, add some caramelized onions.

How can I thicken the sauce if it’s too thin?

If the sauce is too thin, simmer it for a few more minutes to reduce and thicken. You can also add a small amount of cornstarch dissolved in water to help thicken it.

Can I use a different type of nut?

Yes, walnuts or almonds would work great in place of pecans. You could also try crushed hazelnuts for a unique twist.

How do I make this spicier?

For a little heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the sauce before baking. It pairs nicely with the sweetness of the potatoes.

Can I make this in advance and freeze it?

Yes, you can assemble the dish, but it’s best to freeze before broiling. When ready to serve, bake it from frozen, then add the marshmallows and broil.

Conclusion

Scalloped Sweet Potatoes are a flavorful, comforting side dish that perfectly blends sweet and savory flavors. With the right balance of spices, buttery sweetness, and toasted marshmallows, this dish is the ideal addition to your holiday spread. Whether it’s Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any family dinner, this recipe is sure to impress and become a beloved favorite. Enjoy the warm, flavorful combination with every bite