Caribbean Yam Sweet Potato Bake

Transport your taste buds to the tropics with this luscious Caribbean Yam Sweet Potato Bake, a perfect blend of comforting warmth and bold island flavors. This vibrant side dish features tender layers of yams and sweet potatoes coated in a velvety spiced coconut milk sauce infused with fragrant cinnamon, nutmeg, thyme, and a hint of zesty lime. A sprinkle of optional golden bread crumbs adds a delightful crunch, balancing the creamy, slightly sweet base. Ready in just an hour, this dish is ideal for serving alongside roasted meats, grilled fish, or as a show-stopping addition to holiday feasts. Whether you're seeking a vegan-friendly (omit butter and bread crumbs) or indulgently rich option, this Caribbean-inspired casserole will captivate your guests with its exotic flair and unforgettable harmony of flavors.

Nutriscore Rating: 76/100

Prep Time:15 mins

Cook Time:45 mins

Total Time:60 mins

Servings: 6

Ingredients

• 2 medium yams
• 2 medium sweet potatoes
• 1 cup coconut milk
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 0.5 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 0.5 teaspoon salt
• 0.25 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon fresh thyme
• 1 teaspoon lime zest
• 0.5 cup bread crumbs (optional, for topping)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional, for topping)

Directions

Step 1

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x9-inch baking dish or similar-sized casserole dish with butter or cooking spray.

Step 2

Peel and slice the yams and sweet potatoes into 1/4-inch thick rounds. Try to keep the slices uniform for even cooking.

Step 3

Arrange the yam and sweet potato slices in alternating layers in the baking dish. Set aside.

Step 4

In a medium saucepan over low heat, combine the coconut milk, brown sugar, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, vanilla extract, butter, salt, black pepper, fresh thyme, and lime zest.

Step 5

Stir the mixture until the butter melts and the sugar dissolves completely, about 2-3 minutes. Remove from heat.

Step 6

Pour the spiced coconut milk mixture evenly over the sliced yams and sweet potatoes, coating them thoroughly.

Step 7

If desired, mix the bread crumbs with a drizzle of olive oil and sprinkle over the top for a crunchy finish.

Step 8

Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes.

Step 9

Remove the foil and continue to bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the yams and sweet potatoes are fork-tender and the top is golden and bubbly.

Step 10

Let the bake cool for 5-10 minutes before serving. Garnish with extra thyme sprigs if desired.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(875.5g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	1181.4

Total Fat 41.1g	0%
Saturated Fat 16.8g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat g
Cholesterol 62mg	0%
Sodium 1698.6mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 198.2g	0%
Dietary Fiber 21.6g	0%
Total Sugars 51.1g
Protein 12.8g	0%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 233.1mg	0%
Iron 5.5mg	0%
Potassium 2685.2mg	0%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 30.5%

Protein: 4.2%

Carbs: 65.3%