Introduction
Sweet potato casserole is a delightful dish that brings together the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with a rich, buttery pecan topping. Ideal for holiday gatherings or family dinners, this recipe is sure to impress your guests with its warm, comforting flavors.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
Sweet Potato Mixture:
– 4 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
– ½ cup salted butter, melted
– ⅓ cup milk (preferably whole milk)
– ½ cup granulated sugar
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 2 large eggs, beaten
Pecan Topping:
– 5 tablespoons salted butter, melted
– ⅔ cup dark brown sugar
– ⅔ cup all-purpose flour
– 1½ cups chopped pecans
Prep Time
20 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 25 to 35 minutes
Total Time: 45 to 55 minutes
Yield: Serves 8 to 10 people
To prepare the casserole, begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and greasing an 8×11-inch baking dish. Cook the peeled and cubed sweet potatoes in a saucepan until fork-tender, then mash them in a bowl. Combine the rest of the sweet potato mixture ingredients, mix well, and pour it into the baking dish. Next, prepare the pecan topping by mixing its ingredients in a small bowl and crumble it over the sweet potato mixture. Bake until golden brown, let it cool slightly, and enjoy this delicious dish!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Preheat Oven
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8×11-inch baking dish with cooking spray and set aside.
Step 2: Cook Sweet Potatoes
Place the peeled and cubed sweet potatoes in a saucepan, cover with water, and cook over medium-high heat until fork-tender. Drain well and transfer to a large bowl.
Step 3: Prepare Sweet Potato Mixture
Mash the sweet potatoes using a potato masher. Add the melted butter, granulated sugar, milk, vanilla extract, and beaten eggs. Mix until well combined.
Step 4: Fill Baking Dish
Pour the sweet potato mixture into the prepared baking dish, smoothing the top with a spatula.
Step 5: Make Pecan Topping
In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, dark brown sugar, all-purpose flour, and chopped pecans to create the topping.
Step 6: Add Topping to Casserole
Evenly crumble the pecan topping over the sweet potato mixture.
Step 7: Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for 25 to 35 minutes, or until the casserole is lightly golden brown and set around the edges.
Step 8: Cool and Serve
Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving.
Notes
Ingredient Preference
Using whole milk enhances the creaminess of the sweet potato mixture, but lower-fat milk can be used if necessary.
Sweet Potato Preparation
Ensure sweet potatoes are thoroughly cooked to make mashing easier and achieve a smooth texture.
Storage Instructions
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven before serving.
Cook techniques
Boiling Sweet Potatoes
Boil peeled and cubed sweet potatoes in water over medium-high heat until fork-tender. This softens them for easier mashing.
Mashing
Use a potato masher to mash the cooked sweet potatoes until smooth, creating a creamy base for the casserole.
Mixing Ingredients
Combine the mashed sweet potatoes with melted butter, sugar, milk, vanilla extract, and beaten eggs. Ensure all ingredients are mixed well for a uniform texture.
Pouring and Smoothing
Transfer the sweet potato mixture to a greased baking dish, using a spatula to smooth the top for even baking.
Making Pecan Topping
Combine melted butter, dark brown sugar, all-purpose flour, and chopped pecans in a bowl to create a crumbly topping.
Crumbling Topping
Evenly distribute the pecan topping over the sweet potato mixture, ensuring it covers the surface.
Baking
Bake in a preheated oven until the casserole is set around the edges and has a light golden brown color, about 25 to 35 minutes.
Cooling
Allow the casserole to cool slightly after removing it from the oven before serving for optimal flavor and texture.
FAQ
Can I use canned sweet potatoes instead of fresh ones?
Yes, canned sweet potatoes can be used, but be sure to drain them well before mashing.
How can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Substitute the butter and milk with plant-based alternatives like coconut oil and almond milk.
What can I use instead of pecans?
You can use walnuts or almonds as a substitute for pecans in the topping.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Can this casserole be made ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the sweet potato mixture and the topping separately, then assemble and bake when ready to serve.
Conclusion
This Sweet Potato and Pecan Casserole is a delightful dish that perfectly blends the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with a crunchy pecan topping. It’s an ideal addition to holiday meals or any gathering, offering a comforting flavor that appeals to all ages. The balance of creamy and crunchy textures ensures every bite is a treat, making it a memorable side dish.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Sweet Potato Pie
Transform the sweet potato mixture into a delicious pie by adding spices like cinnamon and nutmeg, and placing it in a pie crust.
Maple Pecan Sweet Potatoes
Instead of brown sugar, use maple syrup in the topping for a deeper, more complex sweetness paired with the pecans.
Caramelized Onion and Spinach Mashed Sweet Potatoes
Incorporate sautéed onions and fresh spinach into the sweet potato mixture for a savory twist.
Sweet Potato Muffins
Use the sweet potato mixture as a base for muffins by adding baking powder and baking soda for leavening.
Pecan-Crusted Sweet Potato Casserole
Add a layer of pecan crust below the sweet potato mixture for an extra crunchy base that enhances the overall texture.
Sweet Potato and Apple Bake
Mix in diced apples for a fruity variation, adding a hint of cinnamon to complement the flavors.
Sweet Potato Pancakes
Use the mashed sweet potato as a base for pancakes, combined with flour and eggs for a hearty breakfast option.
