Sweet Potato Casserole

Sweet potato casserole is a classic that many of us look forward to during holiday dinners. The creamy, sweet potatoes combined with a crunchy topping make it unforgettable. If you haven’t tried making a sweet potato casserole from scratch, you’re in for a treat! This Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe is simple yet packed with flavor. Trust me, your family and friends will be asking for seconds! And, it’s quite versatile—perfect for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or even a cozy weeknight dinner. Join me on this delightful cooking journey, where we’ll balance the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with a delicious pecan topping. It’s all about creating that comforting, shared experience around the dinner table.

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Why This Recipe Works

The magic of this recipe lies in its perfect balance. Sweet potatoes bring a natural sweetness, which pairs seamlessly with the buttery crunch of the pecan topping. The creamy base contrasts beautifully with the crispy, nutty layer on top. Plus, the preparation is straightforward, ensuring you can focus on enjoying the process—and the delicious aromas wafting from your kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe

Imagine a dish that wraps you in warmth and nostalgia with every bite. This casserole feels like a hug from the inside! Not only does it taste amazing, but it also looks impressive when served. Whether you’re hosting a holiday feast or just having friends over for dinner, this casserole steals the show. Best of all, it’s versatile enough for formal gatherings or cozy family meals.

Ingredients for Sweet Potato Casserole

For the Sweet Potato Base

• 2 pounds (908g) sweet potatoes, peeled (about 5 small/medium)
• 1/3 cup (5 Tbsp; 71g) unsalted butter, melted
• 1/2 cup (100g) packed light or dark brown sugar (dark preferred)
• 2 large eggs, beaten
• 1/2 cup (120ml) half-and-half or heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

For the Pecan Topping

• 1/3 cup (41g) all-purpose flour (spooned & leveled)
• 1/2 cup (100g) packed light or dark brown sugar (dark preferred)
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/3 cup (5 Tbsp; 71g) unsalted butter, melted
• 1 and 2/3 cups (210g) pecan halves or chopped pecans
• Optional: fresh rosemary or thyme, and flaky sea salt for garnish

Preparing the Sweet Potato Casserole

Boil the Sweet Potatoes

Start with the sweet potatoes. Place them in a large pot or Dutch oven, covering them completely with water. Bring this to a fast boil, then lower the heat and let it simmer for about 20 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when they’re tender. Drain the water and give them a cool-off period of about 15 minutes.

Prepare the Baking Dish

Now, let’s get the oven preheated to 350°F (177°C). While that’s warming up, grease a 9×13-inch baking pan or a similar-sized casserole dish. It’s important to grease it well to ensure everything comes out nice and clean.

Mash the Sweet Potatoes

In this step, take those cooked sweet potatoes and put them in a large mixing bowl. Grab your mixer and beat them until they’re mostly smooth—don’t worry about making them completely creamy; a few lumps are fine. You’ll end up with about 4 cups of mashed sweet potato goodness. After that, add your melted butter, brown sugar, beaten eggs, half-and-half, vanilla, and salt. Mix until everything is well combined, and then pour this mixture into your prepared pan.

Make the Pecan Topping

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, brown sugar, and cinnamon. Pour in the melted butter and toss in the pecans; mix until everything is thoroughly combined. This nutty topping is a game changer! Spoon this pecan mixture evenly over the mashed sweet potatoes, making sure to cover it nicely.

Bake the Casserole

Pop the casserole into your preheated oven and bake for about 30 to 40 minutes. You’ll want it to be golden brown on top—look for that lovely color to ensure it’s ready. Once done, let it cool for about 5 minutes before adding those final touches. A sprinkle of fresh thyme or rosemary, along with a dash of sea salt, elevates the flavors beautifully.

Serving Suggestions

This casserole shines as a side dish paired with glazed ham or roasted turkey, creating a festive meal. Alternatively, serve it alongside colorful greens to enhance the nutrition and balance on your plate. It’s also a superb choice for potlucks or holiday gatherings; everyone will likely leave raving about your sweet potato creation!

Tips for Success

• Mixing light and dark brown sugar gives added depth of flavor—definitely worth a try.
• Feel free to adjust the seasoning! Adding spices like nutmeg can add a nice warm kick.
• Be careful not to over-mash the sweet potatoes; you want some of that wonderful texture to shine through.

Variations

Let’s get creative! If you prefer different nuts, swap the pecans for walnuts or hazelnuts. For something traditional, top with marshmallows. A little hint of orange zest can also brighten the dish with a fresh citrus note!

Storage Tips

Got leftovers? Store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. For the best texture, reheat them in the oven. Or, if you’re in a hurry, the microwave works too!

Pairing Ideas

To complement the sweetness of the casserole, pair it with cranberry sauce for that perfect sweet-tart contrast. Cornbread is another fantastic addition, giving it a lovely Southern twist. A green salad balances everything beautifully; it’s a great way to freshen the meal.

FAQs

Q: Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole a day in advance and refrigerate it before baking.

Q: How can I make this recipe vegan?
A: Just swap the butter with vegan butter, use a plant-based cream, and replace eggs with flax eggs.

Q: What can I use instead of pecans?
A: Snow walnuts, almonds, or even an oat topping can work great.

Q: Can this dish be frozen?
A: Yes, it freezes nicely! You can freeze it before or after baking. Just make sure it’s in an airtight container.

Q: How do I reheat leftovers?
A: For best results, reheat them in the oven at 350°F (177°C). It’ll bring back that fresh, just-baked taste, or simply microwave as necessary.

This sweet potato casserole is a dish that embodies warmth and comfort. Perfect for any occasion, it creates lasting memories around a shared meal. With these steps and tips, you’ll impress everyone at your table. Enjoy this nourishing recipe and the joy it brings!

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