Golden, creamy, and infused with the comforting aroma of roasted garlic and fresh herbs, Garlic Scalloped Sweet Potatoes are a next-level side dish that turns any dinner into a cozy, crave-worthy experience. This recipe combines the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with a rich, garlicky cream sauce and a hint of nutty Parmesan that bubbles into a golden crust.

It’s the kind of dish you bring to the holiday table or make on a chilly weeknight when you want something special without too much fuss. With minimal prep and maximum flavor, this one is bound to become a go-to.
Why You’ll Love This Garlic Scalloped Sweet Potatoes Recipe
This dish isn’t just pretty to look at with its beautifully layered sweet potatoes and crispy top—it delivers big on comfort and flavor. The garlic cream seeps into every bite, creating a savory balance with the natural sweetness of the potatoes. It’s naturally gluten-free, vegetarian-friendly, and makes a refreshing twist on traditional scalloped potatoes.
What Kind of Sweet Potatoes Should I Use?
Choose firm, vibrant orange sweet potatoes (sometimes called garnet or jewel yams in stores). These have a smooth texture that holds up during baking, and their sweet flavor pairs beautifully with garlic and thyme. Avoid pale or white sweet potato varieties—they tend to be drier and less creamy once baked.
Ingredients for the Garlic Scalloped Sweet Potatoes
To create this dreamy dish, here are the key ingredients and why they matter:
- Sweet Potatoes – The star of the show, they bring a sweet richness and vibrant color.
- Garlic – Roasted or sautéed, garlic infuses the cream with deep, savory notes.
- Heavy Cream – Provides the luxurious base that turns into a thick, rich sauce.
- Parmesan Cheese – Adds a salty, nutty finish that creates that irresistible golden crust.
- Butter – Helps blend the flavors and adds extra indulgence.
- Thyme – Fresh thyme offers a subtle herbal balance to the sweetness.
- Salt & Black Pepper – Essential for enhancing all the natural flavors.
How To Make the Garlic Scalloped Sweet Potatoes
Step 1: Prep and Slice
Peel and thinly slice the sweet potatoes into uniform rounds (about ¼-inch thick). This ensures even cooking and a beautiful layered look.
Step 2: Make the Garlic Cream Sauce
In a saucepan, melt butter and gently sauté minced garlic until fragrant. Stir in the heavy cream, salt, pepper, and thyme. Let it simmer briefly, just enough to infuse the cream.
Step 3: Layer the Potatoes
In a greased baking dish, layer the sweet potato slices slightly overlapping. Pour over the garlic cream sauce, spreading it evenly. Sprinkle Parmesan between layers for extra richness.
Step 4: Bake Until Golden
Cover with foil and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 30 minutes. Remove foil, add more Parmesan on top, and bake uncovered for another 20–25 minutes until bubbly and golden.
Step 5: Rest and Serve
Let the dish rest for 10 minutes before serving to allow the sauce to set and flavors to mingle.

How to Serve and Store Garlic Scalloped Sweet Potatoes
This dish feeds about 6 people as a side, making it perfect for gatherings or meal prepping cozy dinners throughout the week. Serve it hot straight from the oven for best flavor.
To store leftovers, let it cool completely and refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat covered in the oven or in the microwave in short bursts.
What to Serve With Garlic Scalloped Sweet Potatoes?
Herb-Crusted Chicken
Crispy-skinned chicken with herbs perfectly complements the creamy richness.
Seared Steak
A juicy steak brings bold contrast and makes this a hearty meal.
Honey Glazed Carrots
Pair sweet with sweet for a bright and balanced plate.
Garlicky Green Beans
Add a fresh green crunch to round out the meal.
Savory Lentil Loaf
For a vegetarian option, this pairing is full of earthy flavor.
Crispy Tofu Cutlets
Pan-fried tofu makes a crispy and protein-rich companion.
Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Soup
Layer the comfort with a cozy bowl of soup on the side.
Buttery Dinner Rolls
Don’t forget the bread to mop up the creamy sauce!
Want More Potato Side Dish Ideas?
If these Garlic Scalloped Sweet Potatoes got your tastebuds dancing, try out more cozy dishes from Nora Nosh:
- Duchess Potatoes: A Crispy, Buttery Delight
- Dad’s Creamy Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes
- Sweet Potato Casserole: A Comforting Classic
- Crack Green Beans
- Parmesan Garlic Roasted Carrots
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And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you try a different cheese? Maybe added some heat with chili flakes?
I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too—let’s make cooking even better together.
Explore beautifully curated comfort food sides and cozy mains on Nora Nosh Recipes and find your new favorites today!
Garlic Scalloped Sweet Potatoes
- Total Time: 70 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Garlic Scalloped Sweet Potatoes are a rich, creamy, and comforting side dish layered with tender sweet potatoes, infused garlic cream, fresh thyme, and a golden Parmesan crust. Perfect for a cozy night in or an impressive addition to your holiday spread, this recipe balances sweet and savory in every bite. It’s an easy recipe that fits into dinner ideas, food ideas for holidays, or a healthy snack with indulgent flair. A great pick for quick preparation with maximum flavor impact.
Ingredients
2 ½ pounds sweet potatoes
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 ½ cups heavy cream
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon ground black pepper
Instructions
1. Peel and slice the sweet potatoes into ¼-inch rounds.
2. In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté until fragrant.
3. Stir in the cream, thyme, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 2–3 minutes to infuse the flavors.
4. Grease a baking dish. Layer sweet potato slices, slightly overlapping.
5. Pour the cream sauce over the potatoes, spreading evenly.
6. Sprinkle Parmesan between layers and on top.
7. Cover with foil and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 30 minutes.
8. Remove foil and bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes, until bubbly and golden brown.
9. Let it rest 10 minutes before serving.
Notes
Slice sweet potatoes evenly to ensure uniform cooking.
Let it rest after baking for the sauce to thicken perfectly.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 430mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 13g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 65mg
