Cajun-Scalloped Sweet Potatoes
Creamy, spicy Cajun-scalloped sweet potatoes feature thinly sliced potatoes layered with bold seasonings, perfect for comforting dinners or holiday gatherings with a smoky, zesty flavor.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Adjust oven rack to the middle position and preheat the oven to 425°F.
- Coat the bottom of a 1 1/2 to 2-quart glass baking dish with olive oil.
- Spray one side of a large sheet of aluminum foil with nonstick spray and set aside.
- Peel the sweet potatoes and cut into paper-thin slices.
- Layer the sweet potato slices in the prepared baking dish.
- In a small bowl, combine minced garlic, salt, minced chipotle chile, chili powder, dried thyme, and freshly ground pepper.
- In a saucepan, heat the milk until warm.
- Add the seasonings to the warm milk and stir well.
- Pour the seasoned milk over the layered sweet potatoes.
- Cover the dish with the prepared aluminum foil.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 45 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes are tender and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a spicier kick, increase the amount of minced chipotle chile or add a pinch of cayenne pepper. You can substitute half-and-half for the milk for a creamier texture. If you don't have fresh sweet potatoes, canned ones can work, but reduce the baking time significantly. Be sure to slice the sweet potatoes thinly for even cooking.
Serving Suggestions
Cajun-Scalloped Sweet Potatoes make an excellent side dish for grilled meats or fish. They pair beautifully with Melissa'S Cajun Pie for a complete Cajun-inspired meal. Consider serving with a fresh green salad or cornbread to round out the meal. A dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of green onions can add a nice finishing touch.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F until heated through, about 20-25 minutes. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions for a quicker option, though the oven will keep the dish's texture better.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cajun-Scalloped Sweet Potatoes contains roughly 798 calories, with 13g protein, 139g carbohydrates, and 21g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (69% of the Daily Value), calcium (62% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (42% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin D and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1801mg per serving (78% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dish up to the point of baking, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before placing it in the oven to ensure even cooking.
What can I use instead of sweet potatoes?
If you want to try a different flavor, you can use butternut squash or regular potatoes, though the cooking time may vary. Keep in mind that the flavor profile will change, so adjust seasonings accordingly.
Is this dish suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, Cajun-Scalloped Sweet Potatoes are vegetarian-friendly. Just ensure that the chipotle chile in adobo sauce you use doesn't contain any non-vegetarian ingredients. This dish is a great option for anyone looking for hearty vegetarian recipes.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).