Irresistible Scalloped Sweet Potatoes with Marshmallows
If you’re searching for the ultimate comfort side dish that brings creamy goodness and just the right touch of sweetness together, look no further than this recipe for Scalloped Sweet Potatoes with Marshmallows. Bursting with layers of tender sweet potatoes, melted plant-based cheese, and topped with golden, toasted marshmallows, this dish combines familiar flavors with a cozy texture that’s sure to be a hit at any gathering or family dinner. Its balance of natural sweetness and rich creaminess makes Scalloped Sweet Potatoes with Marshmallows an unforgettable addition to your culinary repertoire.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Comfort in Every Bite: The creamy texture and sweet marshmallow topping create a perfect cozy pairing that feels like a warm hug on a plate.
- Simple Ingredients, Big Flavor: Using everyday pantry staples ensures a hassle-free cooking experience without sacrificing taste.
- Plant-Based Cheese Magic: Adding plant-based cheese brings a luscious creaminess that perfectly complements the natural sweetness of the potatoes.
- Versatile for Any Occasion: This dish shines just as brightly at holiday feasts as it does at weeknight dinners.
- Eye-Catching Presentation: The golden marshmallows atop a bubbling scalloped potato base are as visually inviting as they are delicious.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These carefully chosen ingredients work together to create the perfect balance of creaminess, natural sweetness, and texture in your Scalloped Sweet Potatoes with Marshmallows. Each component plays a vital role in making this dish irresistibly good.
- Sweet Potatoes: Fresh, peeled, and sliced thin for a tender yet structured base.
- Plant-Based Cheese: Shredded for creamy richness and a delightful melt.
- Unsweetened Plant-Based Milk: Adds moisture and smoothness to the sauce without overpowering flavors.
- Vegetarian Worcestershire Sauce (natural): Provides a subtle umami boost enhancing the depth of the creamy mixture.
- Apple Cider Vinegar (natural): Adds just a touch of brightness to balance the sweetness.
- Natural Gelling Agent: Thickens the sauce perfectly to coat the potatoes beautifully.
- Minced Garlic (natural): Adds warmth and fragrant notes that marry well with sweet potato flavors.
- Plant-Based Butter: Used to sauté and infuse the sauce with rich flavor.
- Mini Marshmallows (plant-based): For that iconic, toasted topping with natural sweetness.
- Ground Nutmeg (natural): A pinch creates an inviting aromatic touch.
- Salt and Black Pepper: Essential for seasoning and bringing all flavors together.
Variations for Scalloped Sweet Potatoes with Marshmallows
This recipe adapts beautifully to suit your personal taste or dietary needs without losing its signature charm. Feel free to experiment with these ideas for a refreshing twist on a classic side dish.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of smoked paprika or cayenne pepper to the sauce for warmth.
- Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle toasted pecans or walnuts on top before serving for extra texture.
- Herb Infusion: Stir in fresh thyme or rosemary to elevate the flavor profile.
- Savory Swap: Use caramelized onions or sautéed mushrooms to bring depth without sweetness.
- Dairy-Free Options: Swap the plant-based cheese for cashew cream for a richer, smoother sauce.
How to Make Scalloped Sweet Potatoes with Marshmallows
Step 1: Prepare the Sweet Potatoes
Begin by washing, peeling, and slicing your sweet potatoes thinly and evenly. This ensures they cook uniformly, resulting in a tender texture that holds up well in the scalloped layers.
Step 2: Make the Creamy Sauce
In a saucepan, melt the plant-based butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté just until fragrant. Stir in the unsweetened plant-based milk, vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural), apple cider vinegar (natural), a pinch of ground nutmeg (natural), and a natural gelling agent. Whisk continuously to combine and cook until the sauce thickens to coat the back of a spoon.
Step 3: Layer the Dish
In a greased baking dish, arrange a layer of sliced sweet potatoes. Pour a portion of the creamy sauce over the layer, then sprinkle with shredded plant-based cheese. Repeat layering until all potatoes, sauce, and cheese are used, finishing with a cheese layer on top.
Step 4: Add Marshmallows and Bake
Scatter plant-based mini marshmallows evenly over the top. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 45-55 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the marshmallows are golden and slightly crisp.
Step 5: Rest and Serve
Let the dish rest for 10 minutes after baking to settle the layers, then serve warm and enjoy the perfect harmony of creamy, sweet, and toasty flavors.
Pro Tips for Making Scalloped Sweet Potatoes with Marshmallows
- Slice Evenly: Use a mandoline slicer if possible for uniform potato slices that cook consistently.
- Layer Generously: Don’t skimp on the sauce between layers to keep every bite luscious and flavorful.
- Watch the Marshmallows: Add marshmallows toward the end of baking or use a broiler briefly to avoid burning.
- Let It Rest: Allow the baked dish to cool slightly so it sets and slices nicely.
- Customize Cheese: Try different plant-based cheeses to find your favorite melt and taste combination.
How to Serve Scalloped Sweet Potatoes with Marshmallows
Garnishes
Fresh chopped parsley or a sprinkle of cinnamon powder adds a lovely visual contrast and enhances the cozy aroma of the dish.
Side Dishes
Pair with roasted vegetables or a crisp green salad to balance the richness with freshness in your meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve in individual ramekins for elegant presentation or create a festive display by garnishing with toasted nuts and a drizzle of maple syrup (natural) for extra warmth.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Transfer any leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days, keeping freshness and flavor intact.
Freezing
This dish freezes beautifully; portion it out in freezer-safe dishes and defrost overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat gently in the oven at 325°F (160°C) until warmed through, or use a microwave for faster heating while preserving texture.
FAQs
Can I use regular cheese instead of plant-based cheese?
For a dairy-free or plant-based option, plant-based cheese offers a creamy, melty texture while keeping the dish light and inclusive for all dietary preferences.
What can I substitute for mini marshmallows?
If mini marshmallows are unavailable, plant-based marshmallows or small pieces of plant-based marshmallow bars work well to create that iconic sweet topping.
How thin should the sweet potato slices be?
A thickness of about 1/8 inch is ideal, helping the potatoes cook quickly and evenly while maintaining a satisfying bite.
Is the natural gelling agent important?
Yes, it thickens the sauce so it clings nicely to the potatoes, resulting in a silky, creamy texture throughout the dish.
Can this recipe be made ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dish fully, refrigerate it, and bake just before serving to save time and maximize convenience.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly special about Scalloped Sweet Potatoes with Marshmallows this recipe takes familiar ingredients and transforms them into a heartwarming side dish filled with creamy texture and natural sweetness. Whether you’re aiming to impress guests or simply treat yourself, this dish promises delight in every bite. Give it a try and watch it become a fast favorite at your table!
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Scalloped Sweet Potatoes with Marshmallows
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Scalloped Sweet Potatoes with Marshmallows is a comforting and creamy side dish combining tender sweet potato layers with melted plant-based cheese and a toasted plant-based mini marshmallow topping. This dish balances natural sweetness with rich creaminess, featuring a savory sauce enhanced by vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural), apple cider vinegar (natural), and a pinch of ground nutmeg (natural). Perfect for family dinners or holiday gatherings, it offers cozy textures and familiar flavors in a visually inviting presentation.
Ingredients
Sweet Potato Base
- 4 large sweet potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced (about 1/8 inch thick)
Creamy Sauce
- 3 tablespoons plant-based butter
- 2 cloves minced garlic (natural)
- 2 cups unsweetened plant-based milk
- 1 tablespoon vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural)
- 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar (natural)
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg (natural)
- 1 tablespoon natural gelling agent
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
Cheese and Topping
- 1 1/2 cups shredded plant-based cheese
- 1 cup plant-based mini marshmallows
Instructions
- Prepare the Sweet Potatoes: Wash, peel, and slice the sweet potatoes thinly and evenly to ensure uniform cooking and tender layers that hold their shape.
- Make the Creamy Sauce: In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the plant-based butter. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant. Stir in unsweetened plant-based milk, vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural), apple cider vinegar (natural), ground nutmeg (natural), and natural gelling agent. Whisk continuously until the sauce thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon.
- Layer the Dish: Grease a baking dish and arrange a layer of sliced sweet potatoes. Pour a portion of the creamy sauce evenly over the layer, then sprinkle shredded plant-based cheese on top. Repeat layering with remaining potatoes, sauce, and cheese, finishing with a cheese layer on top.
- Add Marshmallows and Bake: Evenly scatter the plant-based mini marshmallows across the top layer. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 45-55 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes are tender and the marshmallows turn golden and slightly crisp.
- Rest and Serve: Let the dish rest for 10 minutes after baking to set the layers. Serve warm and enjoy the creamy, sweet, and toasty flavors in every bite.
Notes
- Slice sweet potatoes evenly, ideally with a mandoline slicer, for consistent cooking.
- Layer sauce generously between sweet potato slices for luscious flavor throughout.
- Add marshmallows near the end of baking or briefly broil to prevent burning.
- Letting the baked dish rest helps it set and slice better.
- Try different plant-based cheeses to customize melt and flavor.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: scalloped sweet potatoes, plant-based cheese, marshmallows, creamy side dish, vegetarian, gluten free
