Thanksgiving celebrations are not typical in Britain, but the concept of sharing food with loved ones remains universal. For a twist on the festive table, consider a comforting recipe that works for any autumn or winter gathering: Savoury Sweet Potato Bake with Sage and Parmesan.
This recipe is simple yet versatile. It serves as a side dish for roasts, a cosy weeknight dinner, or a contribution to a potluck. The steps are straightforward and the ingredients few, yet the result is satisfying and ideal for colder months. For other comforting ways to enjoy the season, check out our Apple and Blackberry Crumble recipe—a sweet treat perfect for autumn evenings.
Ingredients
- 1.2 kg sweet potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 300 ml single cream
- 100 ml milk
- 75 g freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- Handful of fresh sage leaves, finely chopped
- Salt
- Black pepper
- Knob of butter for greasing the dish
Instructions
1. Preheat your oven to 180°C (fan) or 200°C (conventional).
2. Lightly grease a medium-sized baking dish with butter. This prevents sticking and adds flavour.
3. In a saucepan, heat the cream, milk, garlic, and half of the Parmesan cheese over low heat. Stir until the cheese melts. Add salt and pepper to taste. Remove from the heat.
4. Layer half the sweet potato slices in the baking dish, overlapping slightly. Pour half of the cream mixture over the top. Sprinkle half the sage over the layer. You could also consider pairing this dish with an indulgent dessert from our Mixed Box of Rocky Road—perfect for finishing off the meal.
5. Repeat the process with the second half of the sweet potatoes, cream mixture, and sage.
6. Top with the remaining Parmesan cheese. This creates a golden crust during baking.
7. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 40 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the top is golden.
8. Leave the dish to rest for 10 minutes before serving to allow the layers to settle. This makes it easier to portion.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve alongside roast chicken, pork, or beef.
- Add a green vegetable such as sautéed kale or steamed broccoli to balance the richness.
- Make it a main dish by adding cooked lentils or shredded chicken between the potato layers.
Customisation Tips
- Use Gruyère cheese for a nuttier flavour if Parmesan is unavailable.
- Replace sage with rosemary or thyme for alternative herb combinations.
- For a dairy-free version, substitute cream and milk with coconut milk and use nutritional yeast instead of cheese. Pairing this with something sweet like our Postal Brownie Box can create a balanced meal offering both savoury and sweet elements.
Why Sweet Potatoes?
Sweet potatoes are affordable, filling, and nutrient-dense. They are high in fibre and vitamin A, making them a healthy choice. Their natural sweetness pairs well with savoury ingredients, creating a balanced dish.
Practical Storage Advice
Leftovers keep well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven at 170°C for 20 minutes, covered with foil to prevent drying. Avoid freezing, as the texture may change.
Encourage Reflection
What meals feel comforting to you during the colder months? How can you add new twists to your regular dishes with seasonal ingredients? Share this recipe and inspire others to experiment in the kitchen.
