Delicious Garlic Scalloped Sweet Potatoes for Cozy Dinners

There’s something so satisfying about turning a simple sweet potato into a dish that makes you do a little happy dance—and that’s exactly what happened the night I stumbled upon these Garlic Scalloped Sweet Potatoes. It started as a late-night kitchen experiment when I craved creamy garlic sweet potatoes but wanted something with a little more oomph. I grabbed those beautiful orange spirals, tossed in garlic, cream, and cheese, and honestly? The anticipation was real! When that first bite hit, the blend of rich garlic with the natural sweetness blew my mind.

This Garlic Scalloped Sweet Potatoes recipe isn’t your regular holiday sweet potato casserole. It’s creamy, cheesy, and cozy with a garlic punch that keeps you coming back for more. What surprised me most was how simple ingredients came together to create a bold flavor that felt fancy but was perfect for weeknight dinners too. It’s comfort food with a twist that never fails to turn meals into something special.

And the best part? Sharing this recipe has been a flavor adventure with my fellow food lovers. Whether it’s game night, a festive dinner, or just a feel-good family meal, these Garlic Scalloped Sweet Potatoes always steal the show. If you love cheesy scalloped sweet potatoes and that dreamy garlic mash vibe, buckle up. This is one dish you want in your kitchen rotation!

Ready to whip up your own batch of Garlic Scalloped Sweet Potatoes and impress everyone? Let’s dive right in and make magic happen—your taste buds will thank you! Plus, if you’re loving this creamy garlic sweet potatoes idea, I highly recommend checking out the layers of sweet potatoes, cream, and a kiss of maple for extra inspiration!

INGREDIENTS You Need

This Garlic Scalloped Sweet Potatoes ingredient list is all about bold flavors that actually work together! To get these cheesy scalloped sweet potatoes just right, gather up:

  • 4 large sweet potatoes (about 3 pounds), peeled and thinly sliced—grab these fresh at your local grocery store; they keep great in a cool spot!
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced – this is the garlic punch that gives the creamy garlic sweet potatoes their soul.
  • 1 ½ cups heavy cream – for that dreamy, velvety texture.
  • 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese – because cheesy scalloped sweet potatoes are life.
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese – adds a salty depth.
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter – helps get those layers silky and rich.
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (optional) – this little herb is a personal favorite for an earthy twist.
  • ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional) – for a subtle smoky heat.

No worries if you don’t have heavy cream on hand! I use whole milk or half-and-half all the time in my Garlic Scalloped Sweet Potatoes for a lighter but still creamy finish. And if sharp cheddar isn’t in your fridge, gouda works beautifully to add a fun smoky note.

For speedy prep during busy weeknights, slice your sweet potatoes ahead with a mandoline or a sharp knife and store them submerged in cold water. This keeps them from browning and helps the layers cook evenly.

Top down view of raw ingredients for garlic scalloped sweet potatoes on marble surface

Bonus tip: Butter your casserole dish well and sprinkle some Parmesan on top before baking to get that irresistible golden crust! This Garlic Scalloped Sweet Potatoes recipe gets its amazing taste from the combo of garlic and cheese working in harmony—trust me, every bite is a bold flavor explosion.

If you’re craving extra garlic flavor, feel free to add an extra clove or two. It’s my go-to tweak for garlic lovers wanting that extra kick!

Let’s Make Some!

Okay fellow food lovers, it’s time to make these Garlic Scalloped Sweet Potatoes your new favorite! Follow along and get ready for some seriously cheesy, creamy magic.

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F and butter a 9×13 inch baking dish. I love using a glass dish so I can watch those layers bubble and brown!
  2. Slice your sweet potatoes thinly—about 1/8 inch thick. If you’ve prepped ahead, drain and pat dry before layering.
  3. Mix heavy cream, minced garlic, salt, pepper, thyme, and smoked paprika in a bowl. This flavor-packed cream will soak into every layer.
  4. Layer the sweet potatoes in your dish, pouring a bit of the garlic cream mixture between layers. Sprinkle shredded cheddar and Parmesan as you go for that cheesy scalloped sweet potatoes goodness.
  5. Dot butter over the top and pour remaining cream mixture evenly. This step makes sure your Garlic Scalloped Sweet Potatoes bake up rich and luscious!
  6. Cover with foil and bake for 45 minutes. This is where the magic starts happening! Your kitchen will smell absolutely incredible from that garlic and cheese combo.
  7. Remove foil and bake uncovered for another 20-25 minutes until the top is golden and bubbly. Don’t worry if your Garlic Scalloped Sweet Potatoes look extra gooey; that’s just all the creamy garlic sweet potatoes awesomeness showing off.
  8. Let cool a bit before serving—this helps the layers settle and makes it easier to plate.

In my kitchen, this Garlic Scalloped Sweet Potatoes usually takes about an hour from start to finish, but it’s totally worth every minute!

For quick shortcuts, you can par-boil sweet potato slices for 5 minutes to speed up baking without losing that creamy texture. Busy weeknight hack approved!

If you love dishes with bold flavor, you have to try the Garlic Steak Bites and Potatoes for a full-on flavor attack that pairs beautifully with these scalloped sweet potatoes.

How to Serve Up This!

People literally do happy dances when this Garlic Scalloped Sweet Potatoes hits the table with crispy roasted chicken or tangy pulled pork. It’s a perfect side that stands out at holiday dinners but also dazzles at casual weeknight meals.

I love topping mine with fresh parsley or green onions for a pop of color and brightness. Presentation totally counts here—those golden edges and gooey cheese make it a total showstopper at any gathering.

If you want to switch up this classic, add toasted pecans and fresh sage before baking for a delicious fusion twist—thanks to this inspiration from this scalloped sweet potatoes with garlic, sage, and toasted pecans.

Slight angle close up of finished garlic scalloped sweet potatoes with golden top

Leftovers? No problem! Try layering thin slices into quesadillas or even mixing with scrambled eggs for an indulgent breakfast. Leftover Garlic Scalloped Sweet Potatoes transform easily and make your morning meal a bold flavor celebration.

For more cheese-layered comfort, you’ll want to check out my cheesy scalloped potatoes recipe for another cheesy, cozy delight.

This Garlic Scalloped Sweet Potatoes is perfect for holidays, family dinners, and those nights when you want to impress without stress. Plus, since it’s easy to prep ahead, it works wonderfully for potlucks and game nights. Like this baked scalloped sweet potato casserole recipe that’s been a favorite in my group!

FAQs:

Will kitchen newbies succeed with this Garlic Scalloped Sweet Potatoes?
Absolutely! The steps are simple, and the layers do most of the work. Take your time slicing and use this dish as a chance to get comfy with layering flavors. Even if your slices aren’t perfect, your Garlic Scalloped Sweet Potatoes will still taste amazing.

What if I mess up my Garlic Scalloped Sweet Potatoes?
Spoiler: it’ll still taste incredible! Even if your layers shift or baking time varies, the creamy garlic sweet potatoes and cheese combo rescue any mishap.

How can I prep this recipe for busy weeknights?
Slice sweet potatoes up to a day ahead and store in cold water. Mix your cream and garlic the night before to save time. You can even assemble the dish and refrigerate; just bake when you’re ready!

Can I make this Dairy-Free?
Try substituting heavy cream with coconut milk and use a vegan cheese alternative. The garlic flavor still packs a punch and you’ll have creamy garlic sweet potatoes with a twist.

Can I add other flavors?
Yes! Nutmeg is a classic in holiday sweet potato casseroles, and smoked paprika adds a subtle heat here. Crumbling bacon or adding caramelized onions takes this Garage Scalloped Sweet Potatoes to another level.

How do I store leftovers?
Keep covered in the fridge for up to 3 days. For best results, reheat in the oven to restore that crispy top and creamy inside.

Is this a holiday sweet potato casserole alternative?
Definitely! This Garlic Scalloped Sweet Potatoes offers a fresh take with a garlic boost. If you love tradition with a twist, check out layers of sweet potatoes, cream, and a kiss of maple for even more holiday comfort magic.

CONCLUSION:

What brings me the biggest joy about this Garlic Scalloped Sweet Potatoes is how simple ingredients blend into a soul-warming, bold flavor punch. It’s become one of my all-time favorite ways to enjoy creamy garlic sweet potatoes with a little extra cheesy goodness and a ton of heart.

My Garlic Scalloped Sweet Potatoes Flavor Secrets:

  • Fresh minced garlic—not the powder! It gives that real, punchy garlic flavor.
  • Cheese layering—mix sharp cheddar with Parmesan for depth and gooey texture.
  • A hint of smoked paprika or thyme adds complexity without overpowering the natural sweetness.

I’ve tested variations with bacon, rosemary, and even a maple drizzle for a sweet-heat vibe. For holidays, try the cheesy scalloped potatoes version with extra cheese sauce, or keep it simple for weeknight dinners. Each twist turns this dish into a bold flavor celebration that’s perfect anytime.

I’m so excited for you to taste this Garlic Scalloped Sweet Potatoes and share your own spin. Trust your taste buds, get creative, and have fun! You’re about to make a dish that turns any meal into something special.

And hey, if you love this flavor adventure, don’t miss the cinnamon roasted sweet potatoes recipe for a sweet-savory sidekick that’s just as bold!

Here’s to bold flavors and cozy comfort food with a twist—your new favorite Garlic Scalloped Sweet Potatoes awaits!

Print

Garlic Scalloped Sweet Potatoes

Freshly prepared garlic scalloped sweet potatoes on white plate

Deliciously creamy and garlicky, these scalloped sweet potatoes make a comforting side dish perfect for any meal. The rich garlic-infused sauce perfectly complements the natural sweetness of the potatoes.

  • Author: Nyla
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 60 minutes
  • Total Time: 75 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: Baked
  • Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 large sweet potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 cups whole milk
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tablespoons fresh thyme, chopped

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
  2. In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
  3. Whisk in flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to form a roux.
  4. Gradually whisk in milk and heavy cream, stirring constantly until sauce thickens, about 5-7 minutes.
  5. Add salt, pepper, and smoked paprika to the sauce. Remove from heat and stir in half of the Parmesan cheese.
  6. Arrange half of the sliced sweet potatoes evenly in the baking dish. Pour half of the garlic cream sauce over the potatoes.
  7. Repeat layering with remaining sweet potatoes and sauce.
  8. Sprinkle remaining Parmesan cheese and fresh thyme over the top.
  9. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 40 minutes. Remove foil and bake an additional 20 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.
  10. Let cool for 10 minutes before serving.

Notes

For an extra cheesy twist, sprinkle shredded mozzarella or Gruyere cheese on top before baking. This dish pairs wonderfully with roasted meats or a fresh green salad.

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