Introduction
If you’re looking for a comforting and sweet side dish that embodies the flavors of fall, look no further than an old-fashioned sweet potato casserole. This classic recipe combines creamy sweet potatoes with a buttery, brown sugar topping that is guaranteed to be a hit on your dinner table. Whether you’re preparing it for Thanksgiving, a family gathering, or just craving some traditional comfort food, this casserole is the perfect option.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
– Sweet potatoes: 4 medium-sized, peeled and cubed
– Granulated sugar: 1 cup
– Eggs: 2, lightly beaten
– Butter: 1/2 cup, melted
– Milk: 1/3 cup
– Vanilla extract: 1 teaspoon
– Brown sugar: 1 cup, packed
– All-purpose flour: 1/3 cup
– Butter: 1/3 cup, melted
– Chopped pecans: 1/2 cup
Prep Time
Preparing this sweet potato casserole takes approximately 20 minutes. It’s a simple recipe that doesn’t require advanced culinary skills, making it a great choice even for beginner cooks.
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
The baking process for this casserole takes about 30 minutes, with a total preparation and cooking time of 50 minutes. This dish typically serves 6 to 8 people, depending on portion size, making it a versatile recipe for both small and large gatherings.
Add this sweet potato casserole to your recipe collection and enjoy the unique mix of textures and flavors. It’s a crowd-pleaser you can rely on for warm, comforting meals.
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it’s ready once your casserole is prepared.
Step 2: Prepare the Sweet Potatoes
Peel and dice the sweet potatoes into small chunks. Place the diced sweet potatoes in a large pot of water and boil them until they are fork-tender, which typically takes about 15 to 20 minutes. Drain the cooked sweet potatoes and set them aside to cool slightly.
Step 3: Mash the Sweet Potatoes
Transfer the boiled sweet potatoes to a large mixing bowl. Using a hand masher, hand mixer, or stand mixer, mash the sweet potatoes until they reach a smooth consistency.
Step 4: Mix the Wet Ingredients
Add melted butter, granulated sugar, beaten eggs, vanilla extract, and milk to the mashed sweet potatoes. Blend everything together until the mixture is fully combined and smooth.
Step 5: Prepare the Casserole Dish
Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish lightly to prevent sticking. Pour the sweet potato mixture into the greased dish, spreading it out evenly.
Step 6: Prepare the Crunchy Topping
In a separate medium bowl, combine brown sugar, flour, melted butter, and chopped pecans. Stir until the mixture is crumbly and well combined.
Step 7: Add the Topping
Evenly sprinkle the prepared topping mixture over the sweet potato base in the casserole dish.
Step 8: Bake the Casserole
Place the casserole dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and crispy.
Step 9: Cool Before Serving
Remove the sweet potato casserole from the oven and let it cool for about 5 to 10 minutes before serving.
Notes
Sweet Potato Preparation Tips
For a smoother texture, you can use a food processor to puree the sweet potatoes instead of mashing them by hand or with a mixer.
Topping Variations
Feel free to experiment with the topping by adding shredded coconut, mini marshmallows, or additional spices like cinnamon or nutmeg.
Storage Instructions
Leftover sweet potato casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating Suggestions
To reheat, warm the casserole in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 15 minutes, or until heated through. For individual portions, you can use a microwave for quicker reheating.
Make-Ahead Option
You can prepare the casserole a day in advance. Store the sweet potato mixture and topping mixture separately in the refrigerator, then assemble and bake as directed when ready to serve.
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Cook Techniques
Preparing Sweet Potatoes
Begin by peeling the sweet potatoes and cutting them into evenly sized chunks. This ensures even cooking and a smooth texture for the casserole.
Boiling Sweet Potatoes
Boil the sweet potato chunks in a large pot of water until they are tender and can easily be pierced with a fork. This step softens the sweet potatoes for mashing.
Mashing and Mixing
Once boiled, mash the sweet potatoes thoroughly until smooth. Combine the sweet potatoes with melted butter, sugar, eggs, milk, vanilla, and other flavorings, mixing well to achieve a creamy consistency.
Creating the Topping
For the crunchy and sweet topping, mix together brown sugar, chopped pecans, and flour. Add melted butter to the mixture to form a crumbly texture.
Assembling and Baking
Spread the mashed sweet potato mixture evenly in a greased baking dish. Sprinkle the pecan topping mixture over the top. Bake the casserole until the topping is golden brown and the dish is heated through.
FAQ
Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, the casserole can be prepared a day in advance. Assemble the casserole and topping separately, then store in the refrigerator. Add the topping right before baking.
Can I substitute regular potatoes for sweet potatoes?
It’s not recommended to substitute regular potatoes, as sweet potatoes provide the unique flavor and texture essential to this dish.
How do I store leftovers?
Leftover casserole should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where it will keep for up to 3-4 days.
Can I freeze sweet potato casserole?
Yes, the casserole can be frozen. Prepare and assemble it without the topping, wrap tightly, and freeze. Add the topping and bake when ready to serve.
Can I make this casserole dairy-free?
Yes, you can substitute non-dairy milk and a dairy-free butter alternative to make the casserole suitable for a dairy-free diet.
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Conclusion
Sweet potato casserole is a timeless dish that balances the warm earthiness of sweet potatoes with the perfect hint of sweetness and crunch. This recipe brings tradition and comfort to your table, making it a great addition to any holiday or family gathering. Its rich flavors and smooth texture create a dish that feels nostalgic yet satisfying every time. Whether served as a side dish or a centerpiece, this casserole is sure to bring joy and warmth to your culinary spread.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Easy Mashed Sweet Potatoes
Pair this creamy sweet potato casserole with a simple mashed sweet potato recipe for an extra dose of comfort food on your table.
Candied Yams with Marshmallows
The marshmallow topping in this casserole makes it similar to candied yams. For variety, consider making a classic candied yams dish on the side.
Roasted Vegetables
Balance the sweetness of this casserole with roasted vegetables such as carrots, Brussels sprouts, and parsnips, seasoned lightly with olive oil and rosemary.
Honey-Glazed Ham
Pair the sweet potato casserole with a savory main course like honey-glazed ham for a perfect blend of salty and sweet flavors.
Pecan Pie
For a perfectly sweet ending to your meal, serve this casserole with a dessert like pecan pie to harmonize nutty and sugary notes.
Cheesy Green Bean Casserole
Add a savory element to your spread by complementing the sweetness of the sweet potato casserole with a creamy, cheesy green bean casserole.
Crispy Honey Cornbread
Serve alongside warm, crispy honey cornbread to enhance the flavor of the casserole with a soft and crumbly texture.
Classic Roast Turkey
This casserole works wonderfully as a side dish for a classic roast turkey, offering a well-rounded holiday feast combination.
Apple Cranberry Salad
Consider pairing with a light apple cranberry salad to add a fresh, tart contrast that balances the sweetness of the casserole.
