Sweet Potatoes Au Gratin is a deliciously creamy and cheesy dish that elevates the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes. This comforting casserole features layers of thinly sliced sweet potatoes baked in a rich cheese sauce, making it a perfect side dish for holiday meals or family gatherings.

Ingredients List

For the Casserole:

• 3 large sweet potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced (about 4 cups)
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup milk (whole or 2%)
• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese (or a cheese blend)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (optional)
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (for topping)
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Timing

Preparing Sweet Potatoes Au Gratin takes about 20 minutes for prep and 1 hour for baking, totaling approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Step 2: Prepare the Cheese Sauce

1. Combine Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, combine the heavy cream, milk, minced garlic, dried thyme, salt, black pepper, and nutmeg (if using). Whisk until well combined.

Step 3: Layer the Sweet Potatoes

1. Grease Baking Dish: Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter.
2. Layer Sweet Potatoes: Arrange half of the sliced sweet potatoes in an even layer at the bottom of the dish.
3. Add Cheese: Sprinkle half of the shredded cheddar cheese over the sweet potatoes.
4. Pour Sauce: Pour half of the cream mixture over the cheese layer.
5. Repeat Layers: Repeat the layering process with the remaining sweet potatoes, cheese, and sauce.

Step 4: Bake the Casserole

1. Cover with Foil: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil to prevent excessive browning.
2. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes.
3. Add Parmesan Topping: After 30 minutes, remove the foil and sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top.
4. Continue Baking: Bake uncovered for an additional 20-30 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes are tender and the top is golden and bubbly.

Step 5: Serve

1. Garnish: Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
2. Enjoy: Serve warm as a delightful side dish!

Nutritional Information

Here’s a quick glance at the nutritional profile of Sweet Potatoes Au Gratin (per serving, assuming 8 servings):

Nutrient	Amount per Serving
Calories	320
Protein	10g
Fat	20g
Carbohydrates	30g
Fiber	3g

Tips for Customization

• Cheese Variations: Experiment with different cheeses like Gruyère, mozzarella, or a cheese blend for varied flavors.
• Add Ins: Incorporate cooked bacon, caramelized onions, or sautéed mushrooms for added depth.
• Herb Variations: Fresh herbs like rosemary or sage can enhance the flavor profile.

Serving Suggestions

Sweet Potatoes Au Gratin pairs well with:

• Roasted meats such as chicken, pork, or beef.
• A fresh green salad for a balanced meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Slicing Sweet Potatoes Too Thick: Ensure the sweet potatoes are sliced thinly for even cooking and a creamy texture.
2. Overbaking: Keep an eye on the casserole to prevent overbaking, which can lead to dry edges.
3. Skipping the Foil: Covering the dish with foil initially helps to cook the sweet potatoes through without burning the top.

Storing Tips for the Recipe

Sweet Potatoes Au Gratin can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.

Conclusion

In about 1 hour and 20 minutes, you can enjoy a delicious dish of Sweet Potatoes Au Gratin that is creamy, cheesy, and bursting with flavor. This comforting casserole is sure to impress at any meal!

FAQs

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the casserole a day in advance, cover it, and refrigerate it. Just add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time if baking straight from the fridge.

Can I use other types of potatoes?

Yes, you can substitute regular potatoes, but keep in mind that cooking times may vary.

What if I want a lighter version?

You can use half-and-half instead of heavy cream and reduce the amount of cheese for a lighter dish.

Can I customize the recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to add your favorite ingredients or adjust the seasonings to your taste.