Name: Chipotle Gouda Scalloped Sweet Potatoes
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 20 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3 large sweet potatoes, sliced into 1/8th inch thick rounds; 3 tablespoons salted butter (or sub vegan butter); ¼ cup flour (whole wheat, all purpose, or gluten free 1:1 flour); 2 cups milk (skim, 2% or whole milk); 8 ounces smoked gouda cheese OR sharp cheddar cheese, shredded (about 2 cups); 3-4 tablespoons sauce from the can of chipotle chiles in adobo sauce, to taste; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 ¼ teaspoon kosher salt, plus more to taste; Freshly ground black pepper, to taste; 2 ounces smoked gouda (or sharp cheddar), shredded (about ½ cup) for topping; ¼ cup grated parmesan for topping; Fresh chopped parsley for garnish

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

You’ll love this recipe because it’s a perfect mix of comforting and bold flavors. The smoked gouda adds a rich creaminess, while the chipotle sauce brings just the right amount of heat without overpowering the dish. It’s an easy recipe to elevate your usual sweet potatoes and makes a great side for festive occasions or weeknight dinners alike. Plus, it’s naturally gluten-free if you choose the right flour, making it friendly for many dietary needs.

Ingredients

For the sweet potatoes:

3 large sweet potatoes, sliced into ⅛th inch thick rounds

For the sauce:

3 tablespoons salted butter (or sub vegan butter)
¼ cup flour (whole wheat, all purpose, or gluten free 1:1 flour will all work)
2 cups milk (skim, 2% or whole milk)
8 ounces smoked gouda cheese OR sharp cheddar cheese, shredded (about 2 cups)
3-4 tablespoons sauce from the can of chipotle chiles in adobo sauce, depending on how spicy you like it
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 ¼ teaspoon kosher salt, plus more to taste
Freshly ground black pepper

For topping:

2 ounces smoked gouda (or sub sharp cheddar), shredded (about ½ cup)
¼ cup grated parmesan

To garnish:

Fresh chopped parsley

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Preheat oven to 375°F. Spray an 8x8 inch pan with nonstick cooking spray or grease with butter or oil.
Arrange the sweet potatoes in three tight, slightly slanted rows in the pan. Leave a little space so the slices aren’t packed too tightly.
To make the sauce, melt butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 10-20 seconds until it forms a paste.
Slowly whisk in the milk to avoid lumps. Continue whisking until smooth. Bring the mixture to a simmer, stirring occasionally, until it thickens to gravy-like consistency. If too thick, add a little more milk.
Remove from heat and stir in 2 cups shredded gouda, garlic powder, chipotle sauce, salt, and pepper. Adjust seasoning and chipotle sauce to taste.
Pour the sauce evenly over the arranged sweet potatoes, ensuring they are covered.
Cover the pan with foil and bake for 45 minutes to 1 hour, or until the sweet potatoes in the center are fork-tender.
Remove foil and sprinkle the remaining gouda and parmesan on top. Broil on high for 1-2 minutes, watching carefully until the cheese melts and turns golden.
Garnish with fresh parsley and serve.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 6
Prep time: 20 minutes
Cook time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour 20 minutes

Variations

Cheese Options: Substitute gouda with sharp cheddar, fontina, or a smoky mozzarella for different flavor profiles.
Heat Level: Adjust the chipotle sauce to your preferred spice level or use smoked paprika for a milder smoky flavor.
Milk Alternatives: Use almond, oat, or soy milk to make this dairy-free, paired with vegan butter and cheese substitutes.
Herbs: Add fresh thyme or rosemary to the sauce for an herby twist.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, cover with foil and warm in a 350°F oven until heated through, about 15-20 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions but the oven reheating keeps the texture better. Avoid broiling again when reheating to prevent burning.

FAQs

How do I slice the sweet potatoes evenly?

Using a mandoline slicer helps get uniform ⅛ inch slices, but a sharp knife and steady hand work well too.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

Yes, use vegan butter, plant-based milk, and vegan cheese alternatives to keep it dairy-free.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

It can be gluten-free if you use gluten-free flour instead of all-purpose flour.

How spicy is this dish?

The spice depends on the amount of chipotle sauce you add; start with 3 tablespoons and adjust to taste.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Yes, assemble it up to the baking step, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.

What is the best way to reheat leftovers?

Reheat in the oven covered with foil for the best texture, avoiding microwave if possible.

Can I use regular cheddar instead of smoked gouda?

Absolutely. Sharp cheddar works great and changes the flavor profile slightly.

Can I add other vegetables?

Thinly sliced carrots or parsnips can be layered with the sweet potatoes for variation.

How thick should the sweet potato slices be?

About ⅛ inch thick to ensure even cooking and a tender texture.

What if my sauce is too thick or too thin?

Add milk little by little if too thick, or cook a bit longer if too thin, until desired consistency.

Conclusion

This chipotle gouda scalloped sweet potatoes recipe is an irresistible side dish combining smoky, creamy cheese with the natural sweetness of tender sweet potatoes and a delicious smoky heat. It’s a perfect upgrade for holiday tables or a comforting everyday side. Easy to make and adaptable, it’s sure to become a favorite recipe in your kitchen.

Chipotle Gouda Scalloped Sweet Potatoes