Sweet Potato Casserole
Highlighted under: Seasonal & Festive
Enjoy the warm, comforting taste of this Sweet Potato Casserole, a delightful dish perfect for fall gatherings and holiday meals. Topped with a crunchy pecan streusel and a hint of cinnamon, this recipe transforms sweet potatoes into a creamy and delicious side that everyone will love. Ideal for potlucks or family dinners, it’s a seasonal favorite that stands out on any table.
This Sweet Potato Casserole is a cherished recipe passed down through generations. Every bite brings back fond memories of family gatherings and holiday celebrations.
A Comforting Classic for Every Occasion
Sweet Potato Casserole is not just a recipe; it's a tradition that warms the heart and delights the taste buds. As a staple during holiday gatherings and family dinners, this casserole combines the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with rich ingredients, creating a harmonious flavor profile. Its creamy texture and comforting spices make it a perfect match for any autumn meal, making it a dish that everyone looks forward to enjoying.
This dish is incredibly versatile. It can be served alongside roasted meats, enjoyed as a standalone vegetarian option, or even presented at potlucks and gatherings where it's sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Its combination of flavor and texture elevates any meal, making it suitable for both casual dinners and festive celebrations.
The Perfect Balance of Sweetness and Crunch
What sets this Sweet Potato Casserole apart is its delightful pecan streusel topping. The topping adds a wonderful crunch and a nutty flavor that complements the creamy sweet potato base. The mix of chopped pecans, brown sugar, and cinnamon creates a caramelized crust that enhances the overall dish, providing a contrast in texture that delights with every bite.
The streusel topping is not just delicious, but also easy to prepare. In just a few simple steps, you can create a crunchy layer that transforms your casserole from good to extraordinary. The added flavor from the pecans elevates the sweetness of the potatoes, striking a perfect balance that satisfies both sweet tooth cravings and texture preferences.
Ingredients
Ingredients
For the Casserole
- 4 large sweet potatoes
- 1/2 cup butter
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 2 eggs
For the Pecan Streusel Topping
- 1 cup chopped pecans
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup flour
- 1/4 cup butter
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
Make sure to use fresh sweet potatoes for the best flavor!
Instructions
Instructions
Prepare the Sweet Potatoes
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Peel and chop the sweet potatoes. Boil them in a large pot of water for about 15-20 minutes until tender. Drain and mash.
Mix Casserole Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the mashed sweet potatoes, butter, brown sugar, milk, vanilla extract, cinnamon, salt, and eggs. Mix until smooth.
Prepare the Topping
In a separate bowl, mix the chopped pecans, brown sugar, flour, butter, and cinnamon until crumbly.
Assemble and Bake
Spread the sweet potato mixture into a greased casserole dish. Sprinkle the pecan topping evenly over the top. Bake for 30 minutes or until heated through and golden.
Let it cool slightly before serving.
Substitutions and Variations
While this Sweet Potato Casserole recipe is delightful as-is, there are many ways to customize it to suit your taste or dietary preferences. For instance, you can substitute the butter with coconut oil or a dairy-free alternative to make it vegan. Instead of brown sugar, consider using maple syrup or agave nectar for a different sweetness profile, giving the dish a unique twist.
For a bit of a flavor boost, add a touch of orange juice or zest to the sweet potato mixture, illuminating layers of flavor. Additionally, incorporating spices like nutmeg or ginger provides a spiced variation that adds warmth, perfect for cozy gatherings.
Serving Suggestions
Sweet Potato Casserole shines brightest when paired with other seasonal favorites. Serve it alongside roasted turkey, ham, or a nutty grain salad for a balanced meal. The creamy richness complements savory dishes perfectly, creating an inviting plate that your guests will enjoy. To enhance the dish further, consider offering a side of cranberry sauce for a refreshing contrast.
If you have leftovers, this casserole makes for a delicious breakfast option. Simply reheat a slice, and consider adding a dollop of Greek yogurt or a sprinkle of additional nuts on top for a little extra protein and flavor. Sweet Potato Casserole truly is a versatile dish that can be savored at any time of the day.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I make this recipe vegan?
Yes, you can substitute butter with vegan butter and replace eggs with flax eggs or applesauce.
Sweet Potato Casserole
Enjoy the warm, comforting taste of this Sweet Potato Casserole, a delightful dish perfect for fall gatherings and holiday meals. Topped with a crunchy pecan streusel and a hint of cinnamon, this recipe transforms sweet potatoes into a creamy and delicious side that everyone will love. Ideal for potlucks or family dinners, it’s a seasonal favorite that stands out on any table.
Created by: Cassidy Moore
Recipe Type: Seasonal & Festive
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 8 servings
What You'll Need
For the Casserole
- 4 large sweet potatoes
- 1/2 cup butter
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 2 eggs
For the Pecan Streusel Topping
- 1 cup chopped pecans
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup flour
- 1/4 cup butter
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Peel and chop the sweet potatoes. Boil them in a large pot of water for about 15-20 minutes until tender. Drain and mash.
In a large bowl, combine the mashed sweet potatoes, butter, brown sugar, milk, vanilla extract, cinnamon, salt, and eggs. Mix until smooth.
In a separate bowl, mix the chopped pecans, brown sugar, flour, butter, and cinnamon until crumbly.
Spread the sweet potato mixture into a greased casserole dish. Sprinkle the pecan topping evenly over the top. Bake for 30 minutes or until heated through and golden.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 250
- Fat: 10g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Protein: 4g