Sweet Potatoes Au Gratin is a rich, creamy, and comforting dish that elevates the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with layers of savory cheese and a luscious cream sauce. This twist on the classic au gratin uses thinly sliced sweet potatoes to create a beautiful, flavorful casserole that bakes to golden, bubbly perfection. The combination of sharp cheddar or Gruyère with the sweet potatoes makes for a perfect balance of flavors, ideal for holiday dinners or special occasions. This dish is sure to be a crowd-pleaser with its creamy texture and indulgent taste.
Sweet Potatoes Au Gratin Recipe
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs sweet potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 1/2 cups shredded Gruyère or sharp cheddar cheese, divided
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
- Fresh thyme or parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray.
- Prepare the Cream Mixture: In a medium saucepan, combine the heavy cream, milk, minced garlic, ground nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Heat over medium-low, stirring occasionally, until the mixture begins to simmer. Remove from heat.
- Layer the Sweet Potatoes: Arrange half of the sliced sweet potatoes in an even layer in the prepared baking dish. Pour half of the cream mixture over the potatoes and sprinkle with half of the shredded cheese.
- Add the Second Layer: Layer the remaining sweet potatoes on top. Pour the remaining cream mixture over the potatoes and sprinkle with the remaining cheese. Dot with pieces of butter on top.
- Bake: Cover the dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Then, remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
- Garnish and Serve: Let the dish cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh thyme or parsley if desired.
Enjoy this creamy, cheesy Sweet Potatoes Au Gratin as a perfect side dish for any festive meal!
