Sweet Potato Casserole is a delightful dish that brings warmth and flavor to any table. With its creamy sweet potatoes and crunchy pecan topping, it’s a favorite during holidays and family gatherings. This dish not only tastes amazing, but it also offers a touch of comfort food that makes you feel right at home.
Why make this recipe
Making Sweet Potato Casserole is a great choice for many reasons. First, sweet potatoes are packed with nutrients, making this dish a healthier option. Second, it is easy to prepare and can be made in advance, saving time on busy days. Lastly, the sweet and nutty flavors come together perfectly, appealing to both kids and adults!
How to prepare Sweet Potato Casserole
Preparing Sweet Potato Casserole is simple and enjoyable. Follow these easy steps to create a dish that everyone will love.
Ingredients:
- 3 pounds sweet potatoes (peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes)
- ½ cup packed brown sugar
- ⅓ cup melted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon nutmeg
- ¼ cup butter (melted)
- ⅓ cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons flour
- 1 ¼ cups chopped pecans
Steps:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F and grease a 9×13 baking dish.
- Add the sweet potatoes to a large pot and add enough water to cover them by 1 inch. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer and cook for 15 minutes, or until fork-tender. Drain.
- In a large bowl, mash the sweet potatoes with the remaining filling ingredients. Spread in the prepared baking dish.
- In a medium bowl, mix together all the pecan topping ingredients until combined. Sprinkle evenly on top of the sweet potatoes.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until hot and bubbly and the pecans are toasted. Enjoy!
How to serve Sweet Potato Casserole
Sweet Potato Casserole is best served warm. You can enjoy it as a side dish with your main course or as a lovely comfort food snack. It pairs well with turkey, ham, or any holiday meal. You can also add a dollop of whipped cream or ice cream on top for a sweet treat!
How to store Sweet Potato Casserole
To store leftover Sweet Potato Casserole, let it cool completely and then cover it tightly with aluminum foil or plastic wrap. It can be kept in the refrigerator for about 3-4 days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it. Just make sure to use an airtight container, and it will stay good for up to 3 months.
Tips to make Sweet Potato Casserole perfectly
- Choose the Right Sweet Potatoes: Look for firm, smooth sweet potatoes without any soft spots. This ensures the best flavor and texture.
- Do Not Overcook the Sweet Potatoes: Cook them just until fork-tender to avoid mushiness when you mash them.
- Customize the Topping: Feel free to adjust the sugar and nuts in the topping to suit your taste. You can even add some marshmallows for a sweeter twist!
Variations
You can easily adapt Sweet Potato Casserole to fit your taste:
- Marshmallow Topping: Add a layer of mini marshmallows on top for a sweet, gooey topping.
- Maple Syrup: Replace some of the brown sugar with maple syrup for a deeper flavor.
- Spices: Mix in other spices like ginger or clove for a different flavor profile.
FAQ
1. Can I make Sweet Potato Casserole ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare it a day in advance. Just assemble the sweet potatoes and topping, cover, and refrigerate. Bake it when you are ready to serve.
2. Can I use canned sweet potatoes instead?
While fresh sweet potatoes are best for flavor and texture, you can use canned ones if you’re short on time. Just drain and mash them well before mixing.
3. How do I know when the casserole is done?
It should be hot and bubbly around the edges, and the pecans should be golden brown on top. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean.
Sweet Potato Casserole is sure to become a favorite in your home. Try this simple recipe, and enjoy the delicious flavors it brings to your table!
Sweet Potato Casserole
A delightful dish with creamy sweet potatoes and a crunchy pecan topping, perfect for holidays and family gatherings.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 3 pounds sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes
- ½ cup packed brown sugar
- ⅓ cup melted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon nutmeg
- ¼ cup butter, melted
- ⅓ cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons flour
- 1 ¼ cups chopped pecans
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F and grease a 9×13 baking dish.
- Add the sweet potatoes to a large pot and add enough water to cover them by 1 inch. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer and cook for 15 minutes, or until fork-tender. Drain.
- In a large bowl, mash the sweet potatoes with the remaining filling ingredients. Spread in the prepared baking dish.
- In a medium bowl, mix together all the pecan topping ingredients until combined. Sprinkle evenly on top of the sweet potatoes.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until hot and bubbly and the pecans are toasted. Enjoy!
Notes
Serve warm and consider adding whipped cream or ice cream for an extra treat. Store leftovers tightly covered in the refrigerator for 3-4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 60g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
Keywords: sweet potatoes, casserole, holiday, side dish, pecans