Introduction
When it comes to comfort food, few dishes match the warm, inviting flavors of sweet potato casserole. This delightful recipe combines the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with the rich texture of pecans and the nostalgic charm of marshmallows. Perfect for gatherings or a cozy family dinner, this sweet potato casserole is sure to be a hit on any table. Let’s dive into the ingredients needed to create this delicious dish.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
5 pounds sweet potatoes, peeled and chopped
1 cup water
¾ cup coarsely chopped pecans
10 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted and divided
¾ cup brown sugar, divided
½ cup plus 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
Kosher salt
2 large eggs, lightly beaten
⅓ cup whole milk
1 teaspoon orange zest
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
1 cup miniature marshmallows
Prep Time
Preparation for this sweet potato casserole takes about 15 minutes.
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook time is approximately 50 minutes, while the total time from start to finish is around 1 hour and 5 minutes. This recipe yields enough casserole to serve 10-12 people, making it ideal for family gatherings or potlucks.
Now that you have everything you need, gather the ingredients and follow the instructions to whip up this delectable sweet potato casserole! Enjoy the warm flavors and delightful textures as you delight your family and friends with this classic dish.
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Prepare Sweet Potatoes
Add the chopped sweet potatoes and 1 cup of water to a 6-quart Instant Pot®. Select the manual setting, adjust the pressure to high, and set the cooking time for 8 minutes. Once the cooking process finishes, perform a quick-release of the pressure according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Step 2: Prepare Pecan Topping
In a medium bowl, combine the coarsely chopped pecans, 5 tablespoons of melted butter, ¼ cup of brown sugar, flour, and ½ teaspoon of kosher salt. Mix well and then place the bowl in the refrigerator to chill.
Step 3: Mash Sweet Potatoes
After removing the sweet potatoes from the Instant Pot®, drain any excess liquid. Return the drained sweet potatoes back to the pot. Use a potato masher to mash the sweet potatoes until they are smooth.
Step 4: Combine Ingredients
Stir in the remaining 5 tablespoons of melted butter, ½ cup of brown sugar, lightly beaten eggs, whole milk, orange zest, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and ¾ teaspoon of kosher salt into the mashed sweet potatoes. Mix until well combined.
Step 5: Preheat Oven
Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F. Lightly oil a 9 x 13-inch baking dish or coat it with nonstick spray to prevent sticking.
Step 6: Assemble the Dish
Spread the sweet potato mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish. Take the chilled pecan mixture from the refrigerator and sprinkle it evenly over the top of the sweet potato layer.
Step 7: Bake
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake until the sweet potato mixture is almost set, which should take about 40 minutes. After 40 minutes, sprinkle the top with miniature marshmallows and continue to bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the marshmallows achieve a golden brown color.
Step 8: Serve
Remove from the oven and serve immediately while still warm.
Notes
Ingredient Adjustments
Feel free to adjust the amount of sugar or spices according to your taste preferences.
Storage Instructions
Any leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven before serving.
Serving Suggestions
This dish makes an excellent side for holiday meals or family gatherings and pairs well with savory meats.
Cook techniques
Using an Instant Pot
The Instant Pot allows for quick cooking under pressure, which helps retain nutrients in the sweet potatoes. Make sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for pressure release to prevent burns.
Mashing Sweet Potatoes
After cooking, drain excess liquid thoroughly before mashing the sweet potatoes. Use a potato masher for a smoother consistency, ensuring there are no lumps for the best texture.
Combining Ingredients
When mixing the melted butter, brown sugar, eggs, and other ingredients with the mashed potatoes, stir gently but thoroughly. This ensures all components are evenly incorporated without overmixing.
Preparing the Baking Dish
If using a 9 x 13 baking dish, lightly oil it or spray with nonstick spray before adding the potato mixture. This prevents sticking and helps with cleanup.
Layering with Pecans
When spreading the potato mixture in the baking dish, make sure to layer it evenly. The pecan mixture should be sprinkled over the top to create a nice contrast in texture and flavor.
Baking to Perfection
Bake until the mixture is almost set before adding the marshmallows. Keep an eye on the marshmallows while baking; they can brown quickly, so check for a golden hue to avoid burning.
Serving
Serve the dish immediately for the best texture and flavor. The marshmallows will be soft and gooey right out of the oven, making it a delightful treat.
FAQ
Can I use canned sweet potatoes instead of fresh ones?
Yes, you can use canned sweet potatoes. Just make sure to drain them well and adjust the amount of sweetener as needed, since canned versions may be sweeter.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the potato mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Just add the pecan topping and marshmallows before baking.
How do I store leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the oven for best results.
Can I substitute nuts for allergies?
Certainly! You can omit the pecans completely or substitute them with seeds or a nut-free crunch for added texture.
What other toppings can I use besides marshmallows?
Alternative toppings can include crushed graham crackers, more nuts, or a drizzle of caramel sauce for added sweetness and flavor.
Conclusion
This sweet potato dish, enriched with the flavors of brown sugar, butter, and pecans, offers a delightful combination of sweet and nutty elements, complemented by the creaminess of marshmallows. It’s an excellent choice for holiday gatherings or any occasion that calls for a cheerful and comforting dessert.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Sweet Potato Casserole with Apples
Mix diced apples with the sweet potatoes before baking for a fruity twist.
Pecan Pie Sweet Potato Mash
Incorporate a pecan pie filling into the sweet potato mixture for a rich dessert.
Maple-Bourbon Glazed Sweet Potatoes
Use maple syrup and a splash of bourbon instead of brown sugar for a deeper flavor.
Sweet Potato Pancakes
Use the sweet potato mixture to create pancakes, adding a bit of baking powder for fluffiness.
Spicy Sweet Potato Wedges
Cut sweet potatoes into wedges, season with spices, and roast for a savory side dish.
Sweet Potato and Black Bean Enchiladas
Combine sweet potatoes with black beans and enchilada sauce for a hearty vegetarian meal.
Sweet Potato Muffins
Transform the mashed sweet potato mixture into muffins, adding cranberries for a festive touch.
