When the first hints of autumn begin to swirl in the air, my kitchen transforms into a haven for all things comforting and warm. That’s when I whip up my favorite dish: Savory Cinnamon Scalloped Sweet Potatoes. This delightful casserole is a beautiful marriage of tender, caramelized sweet potatoes and a rich, spiced cream sauce, all capped off with a crunchy pecan topping. It’s as if dessert and a savory side dish decided to collaborate, making it the perfect companion for holiday feasts or cozy family dinners.

What I love most about this dish is how it captures the essence of the season—each bite bursts with warmth and nostalgia, elevating your dining experience without any fuss. Whether you’re gathering friends for a potluck or just looking to break free from mundane weeknight meals, these scalloped sweet potatoes will satisfy your cravings and impress your guests. Ready to transform your table with this deliciously comforting side? Let’s dive into the recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Savory Cinnamon Scalloped Sweet Potatoes

Comforting Warmth: Each bite of these scalloped sweet potatoes envelops you in a cozy embrace, making them the ultimate comfort food for chilly evenings.
Unique Flavor Profile: The harmonious blend of cinnamon and brown sugar brings a delightful sweetness that surprises and excites your taste buds.
Versatile Dish: Perfect as a standout side for roasted meats or as a special addition to holiday gatherings.
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: This dish is sure to impress guests, combining simplicity with gourmet flair that kids and adults alike will adore.
Make-Ahead Option: Prepared in advance and baked right before serving—ideal for busy hosts! You might also enjoy pairing it with other satisfying dishes like Savory Roasted Potatoes for a complete meal.

Savory Cinnamon Scalloped Sweet Potatoes Ingredients

For the Sweet Potatoes
• Sweet Potatoes – Provide the base and sweetness for the dish. Note: Aim for uniform 1/8-inch thick slices for even cooking.

For the Cream Mixture
• Brown Sugar – Adds sweetness and caramelization. Substitution: Reduce quantity for a less sweet dish.
• Ground Cinnamon – Infuses warming spice flavors. Optional: Add nutmeg for extra depth.
• Nutmeg – Enhances flavor complexity. Optional: Omit if desired.
• Heavy Cream/Half-and-Half – Creates a rich, creamy texture. Substitution: Use whole milk with a tablespoon of butter for a lighter option; dairy-free alternatives for a vegan-friendly version.
• Vanilla Extract – Adds aromatic sweetness. Note: Essential for balancing flavors.
• Salt – Enhances overall flavor and balances sweetness.

For the Topping
• Pecans – Providing crunch and nutty flavor. Substitution: Swap with walnuts or slivered almonds for variation.
• Butter – Adds richness and enhances browning.

For Serving
• Whipped Topping/Mascarpone – Completes the dish with creaminess. Note: Optional but recommended for serving.

How to Make Savory Cinnamon Scalloped Sweet Potatoes

Prepare the Sweet Potatoes: Peel and slice the sweet potatoes into 1/8-inch rounds. A mandoline works beautifully for uniform slices and even cooking.
Mix the Cream Sauce: In a bowl, whisk together heavy cream, brown sugar, ground cinnamon, nutmeg (if using), vanilla extract, and salt until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
Assemble the Dish: Grease a baking dish with butter. Layer half of the sweet potato slices at the bottom, then pour a portion of the cream mixture over that layer. Repeat with the remaining sweet potatoes and cream mixture.
Bake Covered: Cover the dish with foil and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 35-40 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes are fork-tender and cooked through.
Add the Topping: Carefully remove the foil. Sprinkle the top with chopped pecans and a bit of brown sugar, then dot with butter.
Bake Uncovered: Bake uncovered for an additional 15-20 minutes, until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
Cool and Serve: Allow the dish to cool for about 10 minutes before serving. Top with whipped topping or mascarpone and a sprinkle of cinnamon for an extra touch of indulgence.

Optional: Drizzle a bit of maple syrup for added sweetness when serving.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

How to Store and Freeze Savory Cinnamon Scalloped Sweet Potatoes

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Ensure the dish is completely cooled before sealing to maintain its texture.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze portions in airtight containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating: To enjoy again, reheat in the microwave on medium power or oven set at 300°F (150°C) until warmed through, about 20-30 minutes.

Make-Ahead Tip: Feel free to prepare your savory cinnamon scalloped sweet potatoes a day ahead and simply bake before serving to save time!

Expert Tips for Savory Cinnamon Scalloped Sweet Potatoes

Slice Evenly: Use a mandoline for uniform slices to ensure even cooking and a perfectly tender texture throughout the dish.
Cool Before Serving: Let the scalloped sweet potatoes cool for 10 minutes after baking. This helps the flavors meld together and makes serving easier.
Prep Ahead: Consider assembling the dish a day in advance and refrigerating it. Just extend the baking time if it’s chilled to achieve that comforting warmth.
Adjust Sweetness: Feel free to customize the sweetness by reducing the brown sugar or adding more if you prefer a dessert-like flavor for your savory cinnamon scalloped sweet potatoes.
Topping Variations: Experiment with different nuts, like walnuts or slivered almonds, to add a unique twist to the crunchy topping, enhancing the overall flavor profile.

Make Ahead Options

These Savory Cinnamon Scalloped Sweet Potatoes are an excellent choice for meal prep enthusiasts! You can slice the sweet potatoes and prepare the cream mixture up to 24 hours in advance, storing them separately in the refrigerator. This not only saves time on busy nights but also allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Simply layer the sweet potatoes and cream mixture in your baking dish the night before, and cover it well to prevent browning. When you’re ready to serve, bake the assembled dish at 375°F (190°C), adding an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time if it’s chilled. The result will be just as delicious and comforting, perfect for impressing family or guests!

Savory Cinnamon Scalloped Sweet Potatoes Variations

Customize this delightful dish to suit your taste buds and dietary needs, enhancing both flavor and texture!

Dairy-Free: Swap heavy cream for coconut milk or any dairy-free alternative to create a vegan-friendly base that’s still rich and creamy.
Coconut milk adds a subtly sweet, tropical twist that pairs beautifully with sweet potatoes!
Nut-Free: Replace pecans with sunflower seeds or omit nuts entirely to cater to allergies while keeping that lovely crunch.
Using sunflower seeds adds a delightful nuttiness without the allergy concerns!
Sweetness Level: For a more indulgent dessert-like experience, increase the brown sugar or drizzle with maple syrup before serving.
This small adjustment will elevate the sweetness to perfect balance!
Herb Infusion: Add fresh rosemary or thyme between the sweet potato layers for an earthy aroma that complements the sweetness beautifully.
Just a sprinkle can transform the flavor synergy, leaving guests intrigued!
Spicy Kick: Incorporate a pinch of cayenne pepper into the cream mixture for a surprising burst of warmth that contrasts against the sweetness.
This subtle heat can make each bite a little more exciting!
Creamy Texture: Stir in a dollop of cream cheese or mascarpone to the cream mixture for an extra layer of richness.
This addition will create a lusciously creamy experience worth savoring!
Fruit Twist: Layer in slices of tart apple or pears with the sweet potatoes for a delicious fruity contrast that brightens the dish.
Each bite will surprise you with a fresh burst of flavor that dances on your palate!
Vegan Option: Use a blend of unsweetened almond milk and plant-based butter to achieve that rich creamy texture in a vegan-friendly way.
You won’t miss the dairy, and it’ll retain that comforting essence we love!

What to Serve with Savory Cinnamon Scalloped Sweet Potatoes?

Picture a comforting meal that tantalizes the senses and brings loved ones together at the table.

Roasted Chicken: Juicy roasted chicken, seasoned to perfection, offers a savory contrast that balances the sweet richness of the scalloped sweet potatoes.
Maple-Glazed Brussels Sprouts: These tender, caramelized veggies provide a delightful crunch and complement the warm spices in the sweet potatoes beautifully.
Cranberry Sauce: A spoonful of tart, sweet cranberry sauce adds a zesty note that brightens the dish and enhances the fall flavors.
Garlicky Green Beans: Crisp-tender green beans sautéed with garlic bring freshness and a pop of color to your plate, creating a lovely textural contrast.
Herbed Quinoa: Light and fluffy herbed quinoa offers a nutty flavor, making the perfect base to scoop up those creamy sweet potatoes while being a nutritious option.
Red Wine: Pour a glass of smooth red wine, such as a Pinot Noir—its fruity notes and soft tannins will elevate your meal to a delightful dining experience.
Pumpkin Pie: Finish your meal with a slice of classic pumpkin pie. The spices blend beautifully with the cinnamon in the sweet potatoes, creating a harmonious end to your feast.

Savory Cinnamon Scalloped Sweet Potatoes Recipe FAQs

What type of sweet potatoes should I use?
Absolutely! Choose firm, blemish-free sweet potatoes for the best flavor and texture. Look for those with smooth skin and avoid any with dark spots or soft spots, as they indicate ripeness issues. Aim for uniform sizes to ensure even cooking.

How should I store leftovers of Savory Cinnamon Scalloped Sweet Potatoes?
The more the merrier! Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. If the dish is warm, allow it to cool completely before sealing to retain maximum moisture and prevent sogginess.

Can I freeze the dish, and if so, how?
Certainly! For freezing, cut the scalloped sweet potatoes into portions and place them in airtight containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. They will retain their delicious flavors when done this way!

What if my sweet potatoes are hard after baking?
Should you find your sweet potatoes still difficult after baking, check to ensure they were sliced evenly to 1/8-inch thick. If they need more cooking time, cover them back up with foil and return them to the oven for an additional 10-15 minutes until tender.

Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Very much! This savory cinnamon scalloped sweet potatoes dish is vegetarian-friendly and can be easily adjusted for those with dietary restrictions. For a dairy-free version, swap heavy cream for coconut milk, and use plant-based butter. Always double-check ingredients for allergies, especially with nuts if you decide to add pecans or other toppings.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can! Prepare the scalloped sweet potatoes a day in advance by assembling it and refrigerating it covered with foil. Just remember to add an extra 10-15 minutes to your baking time if it’s straight from the fridge to ensure everything is warmed through and delicious.

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