Irresistible Scalloped Sweet Potatoes with Marshmallows

Scalloped Sweet Potatoes with Marshmallows is a delightful dish that brings together creamy layers of tender sweet potatoes with melted plant-based cheese and a golden topping of fluffy marshmallows for a perfect balance of savory and natural sweetness. This recipe stands out as a comforting favorite that adds a touch of warmth and festive charm to any table, making it a must-try for those who love rich, comforting casseroles with a twist.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Comfort food at its best: Creamy, cheesy, and naturally sweet, this dish feels like a warm hug on the plate.
• Simple ingredients: Easy-to-find staples come together effortlessly to create a show-stopping side or main dish.
• Perfect texture contrast: Soft scalloped sweet potatoes paired with a crispy, toasted marshmallow topping adds excitement to every bite.
• Plant-based goodness: Made with plant-based cheese and natural ingredients, it’s suitable for a range of dietary preferences.
• Versatile for occasions: Works wonderfully for holiday dinners, potlucks, or an indulgent weeknight treat.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe uses a handful of essential ingredients that each play a crucial role in creating creamy Scalloped Sweet Potatoes with Marshmallows, balancing flavors, textures, and that perfect golden color on top.

• Sweet potatoes: Fresh and thinly sliced for tender layers and natural sweetness.
• Plant-based cheese: Adds meltiness and a delicious creamy layer that binds everything together.
• Plant-based butter: Essential for a rich, velvety texture and to enhance browning.
• All-purpose flour: Used to make a smooth, natural gelling agent-based white sauce that thickens the dish.
• Milk alternative: Creamy plant-based milk enriches the sauce for that luscious mouthfeel.
• Vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural): Adds a subtle umami depth without overpowering.
• Maple syrup (natural): Provides a touch of natural sweetness to complement the marshmallows.
• Vanilla extract (natural): Just a hint brings warmth and complexity to the sweet toppings.
• Fluffy marshmallows: A cloud-like topping that browns beautifully, adding the final touch of texture and sweetness.
• Ground cinnamon and nutmeg (natural): Add aromatic spice that pairs perfectly with sweet potatoes and marshmallows.
• Salt and pepper: To balance all flavors and bring out the richness.

Variations for Scalloped Sweet Potatoes with Marshmallows

One of the best things about this recipe is how simple it is to customize. Whether you want to add more layers of flavor or adapt it to dietary needs, here are some easy and delicious variations to try.

• Add chopped nuts: Sprinkle toasted pecans or walnuts on top for added crunch and earthy flavor.
• Spiced up: Incorporate ground ginger or cardamom to add a warming twist to the sweetness.
• Extra veggies: Layer in thin slices of carrots or parsnips for extra color and nutrients.
• Swap sweeteners: Use date syrup (natural) or coconut sugar instead of maple syrup for a different sweet profile.
• Cheesy alternatives: Try smoked plant-based cheese for a delightful twist on the classic creamy flavor.

How to Make Scalloped Sweet Potatoes with Marshmallows

Step 1: Prepare the Sweet Potatoes

Start by washing and peeling the sweet potatoes, then slice them evenly into thin rounds. This ensures they cook through at the same rate, giving you even, tender layers that melt in your mouth.

Step 2: Make the Creamy Sauce

Melt the plant-based butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in the all-purpose flour and cook for about a minute, stirring constantly until it forms a smooth paste. Gradually add the plant-based milk while whisking to create a silky thick sauce. Stir in the vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural), maple syrup (natural), salt, pepper, cinnamon, and nutmeg for a rich, flavorful base that complements the sweet potatoes perfectly.

Step 3: Layer the Casserole

Grease a baking dish with plant-based butter. Arrange half of the sweet potato slices in an even layer, then pour over half of the creamy sauce and sprinkle with shredded plant-based cheese. Repeat the layers with remaining potatoes, sauce, and cheese, making sure to cover every edge.

Step 4: Bake and Top with Marshmallows

Bake the dish in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 45 minutes until the sweet potatoes are tender and the sauce is bubbling. Remove from the oven, evenly sprinkle the fluffy marshmallows on top, then return to the oven and bake for another 10-15 minutes until the marshmallows turn golden brown and irresistibly toasted.

Pro Tips for Making Scalloped Sweet Potatoes with Marshmallows

• Slice evenly: Use a mandoline slicer or a sharp knife to ensure all sweet potato slices are the same thickness for even cooking.
• Low and slow baking: Baking at a moderate temperature prevents burning and lets flavors meld beautifully.
• Room temperature ingredients: Let your plant-based milk and butter come to room temperature for a smoother sauce texture.
• Watch the marshmallows closely: They can go from perfectly toasted to burnt quickly, so keep an eye during the last baking stage.
• Make ahead advantage: This dish tastes even better the next day as the flavors settle, making it perfect for prepping ahead of time.

How to Serve Scalloped Sweet Potatoes with Marshmallows

Garnishes

Freshly chopped parsley or thyme adds a vibrant burst of color and fresh herbal notes that beautifully contrast the richness of the dish. You can also sprinkle a pinch of crushed cinnamon on top for an extra hint of spice.

Side Dishes

Serve alongside crisp green vegetables such as sautéed kale or roasted Brussels sprouts to balance the sweetness with some earthiness and crunch. A simple mixed green salad with a light vinaigrette can also provide a fresh counterpoint to the creamy casserole.

Creative Ways to Present

For an elegant presentation, bake individual portions in small ramekins for a personalized touch at gatherings. Layering in clear glass dishes lets the beautiful orange hue of the sweet potatoes shine through, whetting appetites before the first bite.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, cover the dish tightly with foil or airtight containers and store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Leftover scalloped sweet potatoes with marshmallows reheat beautifully while maintaining their creamy texture.

Freezing

This dish freezes well when placed in a freezer-safe container. Freeze in portions for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating to preserve flavor and texture.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes until warmed through. Adding a few extra marshmallows on top before reheating can help refresh the toasty topping.

FAQs

Can I use regular cheese instead of plant-based cheese?

Absolutely! While plant-based cheese adds a wonderful melt and flavor, regular cheese can also be used if preferred or if diet allows, but the recipe shines with plant-based options.

Are marshmallows necessary for this recipe?

The marshmallows provide that classic sweet topping with a toasted crunch, but if you prefer, you can skip them or substitute with a sprinkle of brown sugar (natural) and cinnamon for a caramelized finish.

Can this recipe be made dairy-free?

Yes, by using plant-based butter, milk, and cheese, this recipe is fully dairy-free without losing any creaminess or flavor.

How thin should I slice the sweet potatoes?

Slices around 1/8 inch thick work best, allowing them to cook evenly and absorb the creamy sauce perfectly.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Definitely! It’s a great dish to prepare ahead, and it reheats wonderfully, making it ideal for busy weeknights or special occasions alike.

Final Thoughts

If you’re craving something that combines warmth, creamy goodness, and a playful touch of sweetness, this Scalloped Sweet Potatoes with Marshmallows recipe is a beautiful way to satisfy that craving. Its simplicity, customizable nature, and irresistibly golden top layer make it a dish you’ll want to share again and again. Give it a try and bring a cozy, flavorful experience to your table!

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