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Creamy Garlic Butter Sweet Potato Bake

Creamy Garlic Butter Sweet Potato Bake

This Creamy Garlic Butter Sweet Potato Bake transforms simple sweet potatoes into a luxurious, golden, and garlicky side dish layered with silky cream sauce and bubbling cheese. Perfect for holidays or any comfort-food craving.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 pounds large sweet potatoes, peeled and sliced into 1/8-inch rounds
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  •  
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 6 large garlic cloves, minced (about 2 tablespoons)
  • 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups whole milk, warmed
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/4 teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon white pepper
  •  
  • 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, freshly grated
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
  • 2 tablespoons fresh chives, chopped
  • 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter.

2. Slice sweet potatoes into 1/8-inch rounds using a knife or mandoline for even thickness. Toss with olive oil, salt, and pepper.

3. Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté 60–90 seconds until fragrant.

4. Whisk in flour to make a roux and cook for 2 minutes to remove raw flour taste.

5. Gradually add warm milk while whisking to prevent lumps, then add heavy cream, thyme, paprika, nutmeg, salt, and white pepper. Simmer 3–4 minutes until thickened.

6. Layer half the sweet potatoes in the baking dish and pour half the sauce evenly over. Repeat with remaining potatoes and sauce.

7. Cover tightly with foil and bake 35 minutes.

8. Remove foil, top with cheddar, Parmesan, and panko breadcrumbs, and bake uncovered 20 minutes until golden and bubbling.

9. Rest 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh chives.

Notes

• Substitute half-and-half or Greek yogurt for heavy cream to lighten the dish.

• For dairy-free, use coconut cream and cashew milk with nutritional yeast.

• Add parsnips or cauliflower slices between layers for added nutrition.

• Assemble up to 24 hours in advance, refrigerate, and bake when ready.

Nutrition

Keywords: creamy garlic butter sweet potato bake, sweet potato gratin, southern side dish, holiday potato recipe