Sweet Potato Casserole

Sweet Potato Casserole is a cherished dish that has a special place in my heart. Every fall, as the leaves start to turn and the air gets crisp, I find myself craving this comforting treat. It reminds me of family gatherings and holiday meals, where laughter fills the air and the aroma of baked goods dances through the kitchen. My grandmother used to make this for Thanksgiving, and I can still hear her voice guiding me as I helped mash the sweet potatoes. When I serve this dish, it’s not just about the flavors but the memories that come along with it. The combination of sweet potatoes and a crunchy pecan streusel creates a perfect harmony of textures and tastes. Trust me, the moment you take the first bite of this Sweet Potato Casserole, you’ll understand why it has become a staple at our family table.

Ingredients for Sweet Potato Casserole

The ingredients for this Sweet Potato Casserole come together to create a dish that is both comforting and nourishing. Each element plays a crucial role in building the flavors and textures that make this casserole special. From the creamy sweet potatoes to the crunchy pecans, every bite is a celebration of fall.

• 3 to 4 large sweet potatoes (about 1 3/4 pounds), peeled and cubed
  These sweet potatoes are the star of the dish, providing a natural sweetness and creamy texture when mashed.
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted, plus more for buttering the baking dish
  Butter adds richness and moisture to the sweet potato mixture, enhancing the overall flavor.
• 1/2 cup milk
  Milk brings creaminess to the dish, helping to achieve a smooth consistency in the sweet potato mixture.
• 2 large eggs
  Eggs act as a binder, helping to hold the casserole together and giving it a light texture.
• 1/4 cup maple syrup
  This natural sweetener adds depth and a lovely flavor that complements the sweet potatoes beautifully.
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
  Vanilla enhances the sweetness and adds a warm, aromatic quality to the casserole.
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
  Cinnamon contributes a warm, spicy note that makes the dish feel cozy and inviting.
• 1/2 teaspoon ginger
  Ginger adds a zesty kick that brightens the flavors of the casserole.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
  Salt balances the sweetness and enhances the flavor profile of the dish.
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  Flour is used for the topping, providing structure to the streusel that adds a satisfying crunch.
• 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
  Brown sugar gives the topping a rich sweetness and caramel notes.
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  This butter adds moisture and richness to the streusel topping.
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
  This salt enhances the flavor of the streusel topping.
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
  Another hint of cinnamon in the topping reinforces the warm flavors of the dish.
• 3/4 cup chopped pecans
  Pecans not only add crunch but also a nutty flavor that pairs perfectly with sweet potatoes.

Making This Sweet Potato Casserole

Creating this Sweet Potato Casserole is a delightful experience that fills your kitchen with wonderful aromas. Each step builds upon the last, leading to a richly flavored dish that is sure to be a hit. Let’s dive into the process!

1. Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the peeled and cubed sweet potatoes. Lower the heat to a simmer and cook until the sweet potatoes are very tender, which usually takes about 15 to 20 minutes. This step is crucial; you want them soft enough to mash easily.
2. Drain the sweet potatoes and let them cool slightly. Then, mash them in a large bowl. The texture should be smooth and creamy, with no lumps. You can use a hand mixer for this, or simply mash by hand.
3. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F. While the oven is heating, butter a 2-quart baking dish generously to prevent sticking.
4. In the bowl with the mashed sweet potatoes, add the melted butter, eggs, milk, maple syrup, vanilla, cinnamon, ginger, and salt. Mix everything together until well combined. You should have a lovely, creamy mixture that’s fragrant and inviting.
5. Transfer the sweet potato mixture to the prepared baking dish and spread it into an even layer. Ensure that it fills the dish evenly for uniform cooking.
6. Now, let’s prepare the topping. In a medium bowl, combine the brown sugar, pecans, flour, melted butter, cinnamon, and salt. Stir until the mixture is moist and crumbly, resembling wet sand.
7. Sprinkle the topping evenly over the sweet potato mixture. Don’t be shy; a generous layer adds to the delightful crunch.
8. Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the center is mostly set and the top is golden brown and crunchy.
9. Once out of the oven, allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before serving. This step helps the layers set nicely and makes it easier to serve.

Recipe Notes about Sweet Potato Casserole

Here are some great tips to ensure your Sweet Potato Casserole turns out perfectly! Whether you’re prepping in advance or storing leftovers, these notes will guide you.

• Make Ahead: You can prepare the casserole 1 to 2 days in advance. Simply make the sweet potato filling and transfer it to the baking dish without baking. Cover tightly and refrigerate until ready to bake.
• Storage: Cool the casserole completely before covering it. Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for best results.
• Freezing: The assembled casserole can be frozen. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap and foil. When ready to use, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed.
• Variations: Feel free to add different spices or nuts to the topping for a unique twist. Pecans can be replaced with walnuts or almonds.
• Serving Suggestions: This casserole pairs beautifully with roasted meats or as a part of a vegetarian feast. Consider serving it alongside a fresh salad.

Perfect Matches for Sweet Potato Casserole

• Roasted Chicken: The sweetness of the casserole complements savory roasted chicken wonderfully, creating a balanced meal.
• Green Beans: Serve this dish with fresh green beans for a colorful contrast and added crunch.
• Thanksgiving Feast: It’s a must-have for Thanksgiving dinners, where it can take center stage alongside turkey and stuffing.
• Brunch Option: This casserole can also be served at brunch, making it a delightful addition to any morning spread.
• Seasonal Events: Great for fall gatherings, Thanksgiving, or any occasion where comfort food is appreciated.
• Storage Tips: If you have leftovers, make sure to store them in an airtight container in the fridge. It reheats beautifully!

FAQ

Conclusion

The Sweet Potato Casserole is a beloved dish that brings warmth and comfort to any table. With its delightful blend of flavors and textures, it’s no wonder this recipe has become a family favorite. I encourage you to give it a try! It’s perfect for gatherings and will surely impress your guests, making every bite a celebration of good taste.

Sweet Potato Casserole

The ultimate comfort food, Sweet Potato Casserole combines creamy sweet potatoes with a crunchy pecan topping. It's the perfect dish for fall gatherings and holiday feasts. You'll crave this easy and delicious recipe, making it a staple in your kitchen!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 25 minutes mins

Cook Time 25 minutes mins

Total Time 50 minutes mins

Course Side Dishes

Cuisine American

Servings 10 servings

Calories 250 kcal

Equipment

• Mixing Bowl
• Baking Sheet
• Chef's Knife
• Large Pot
• Wooden Spoon
• Whisk
• Oven
• Peeler
• Saucepan

Ingredients

  

• 3 to 4 large Sweet Potatoes about 1 3/4 pounds, peeled and cubed.
• 4 tablespoons Unsalted Butter melted, plus more for buttering the baking dish.
• 1/2 cup Milk
• 2 large Eggs
• 1/4 cup Maple Syrup
• 1 teaspoon Pure Vanilla Extract
• 1/2 teaspoon Cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon Ginger
• 1/2 teaspoon Salt
• 1/2 cup All-Purpose Flour
• 1/2 cup Brown Sugar packed.
• 4 tablespoons Unsalted Butter melted.
• 1/2 teaspoon Kosher Salt
• 1 teaspoon Cinnamon
• 3/4 cup Chopped Pecans

Instructions

 

• Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the peeled and cubed sweet potatoes and bring to a boil. Lower the heat to a simmer and cook until the sweet potatoes are very tender, 15 to 20 minutes. Drain and cool slightly, then mash.
• Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Butter a 2-quart baking dish and set aside.
• In a large bowl, using a hand mixer, or a whisk, mix together the mashed sweet potatoes, butter, eggs, milk, maple syrup, vanilla, cinnamon, ginger, and salt. Transfer to the prepared baking dish and spread into an even layer.
• In a medium bowl, add the brown sugar, pecans, flour, melted butter, cinnamon, and salt. Stir together until moist. Topping should be the consistency of wet sand. Sprinkle evenly over the top of the sweet potatoes.
• Bake for 25-30 minutes, until mostly set in the center and the top is golden brown.

Notes

• Make Ahead: You can prepare the casserole 1 to 2 days in advance. Simply make the sweet potato filling and transfer it to the baking dish without baking. Cover tightly and refrigerate until ready to bake.
• Storage: Cool the casserole completely before covering it. Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for best results.
• Freezing: The assembled casserole can be frozen. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap and foil. When ready to use, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed.
• Variations: Feel free to add different spices or nuts to the topping for a unique twist. Pecans can be replaced with walnuts or almonds.
• Serving Suggestions: This casserole pairs beautifully with roasted meats or as a part of a vegetarian feast. Consider serving it alongside a fresh salad.

Keyword comfort food, fall recipes, Sweet Potato Casserole, thanksgiving side dishes

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Meet Bella Banks

I’m the one who makes sure we’re having fun while we work. I love the communal aspect of cooking seven friends in a kitchen can be chaotic, but it’s the best kind of chaos! I cook everything alongside the girls, and I’m often the one setting the table and making sure the “vibe” is right for our photos. I believe that any recipe, no matter how simple or complex, is a celebration.