The aroma of sweet potatoes roasting in the oven wafts through the air, mingling with the sweet scent of brown sugar and butter. As you prepare this Sweet Potato Casserole with Buttery Pecan Topping, your heart swells with anticipation for that perfect blend of flavors and textures. ultimate sweet potato casserole.
This dish brings back fond memories of family gatherings where laughter echoed around the dinner table, and every bite was a celebration of warmth and togetherness. cornbread casserole for gatherings Whether it’s Thanksgiving or a cozy weeknight dinner, this casserole promises to be a showstopper that everyone will love.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Sweet Potato Casserole with Buttery Pecan Topping is incredibly easy to make, saving you precious time in the kitchen
- The rich flavors of sweet potatoes combined with buttery pecans create a mouthwatering experience
- Its beautiful golden-brown topping makes it a feast for the eyes as well
- Perfect for any occasion, this dish can be enjoyed as a side or a delightful dessert
I remember the first time I made this casserole; my friends devoured it within minutes, asking for seconds and thirds!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
-
Sweet Potatoes: Choose firm, vibrant sweet potatoes for the best flavor and texture. For more inspiration, check out this Creamy Thanksgiving Mashed Potatoes recipe.
-
Brown Sugar: Light or dark brown sugar adds a rich sweetness that perfectly complements the sweet potatoes.
-
Butter: Use unsalted butter so you can control the saltiness in your dish.
-
Milk: Whole milk gives your casserole a creamy consistency; feel free to use your favorite milk alternative.
-
Pecans: Fresh pecans add a lovely crunch; toasting them enhances their nutty flavor.
-
Cinnamon: A dash of cinnamon elevates the sweet potato flavor; don’t be shy to sprinkle generously.
-
Vanilla Extract: A splash of pure vanilla brings out all the other flavors beautifully.
-
Eggs: Eggs help bind everything together while adding richness to each bite.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Prepare Your Sweet Potatoes: Begin by peeling and chopping 3-4 medium-sized sweet potatoes into even chunks. This ensures they cook evenly and makes mashing easier later.
Boil Until Tender: Place the chopped sweet potatoes in a large pot filled with cold water. Bring to a boil and let them cook until fork-tender, about 15-20 minutes.
Mash Those Spuds!: Drain the sweet potatoes and transfer them to a large mixing bowl. Mash them until smooth, then stir in melted butter, brown sugar, milk, eggs, cinnamon, and vanilla extract until well combined.
Add to Baking Dish: Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter. Pour your sweet potato mixture into the dish, spreading it evenly across the bottom.
Create That Buttery Pecan Topping!: In a separate bowl, mix chopped pecans with melted butter and brown sugar until combined. Sprinkle this delicious concoction over your mashed sweet potato mixture.
Bake Until Golden Brown: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake your casserole for 30-35 minutes until bubbly and golden on top. Let it cool slightly before serving — though good luck waiting!
Now that you’ve mastered this Sweet Potato Casserole with Buttery Pecan Topping recipe, gather your loved ones around and watch their faces light up with delight as they indulge in every delicious bite! gooey butter cookies for dessert.
You Must Know
- Sweet potato casserole with buttery pecan topping is not just food; it’s a hug in a dish
- The creamy sweetness paired with crunchy pecans creates an irresistible combination that will elevate any gathering
- Plus, it’s incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for both novice and seasoned cooks
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by boiling the sweet potatoes until fork-tender. Meanwhile, toast the pecans to enhance their flavor. Mash the potatoes with butter and sugar, then layer them in a baking dish before sprinkling on the buttery pecan topping.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap the sugar for maple syrup for added depth. You can also experiment with spices like nutmeg or cinnamon for a cozy twist. Adding mini marshmallows on top just before finishing can create an even sweeter treat.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover casserole in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. To reheat, simply pop it in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, about 20 minutes.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use fresh sweet potatoes for better flavor; canned varieties can be watery and bland
- When mashing, ensure no lumps remain for a smooth texture
- Always taste your mixture before baking to adjust flavors to your liking
I remember one Thanksgiving when I accidentally made this casserole way too sweet; my family couldn’t stop laughing about my “dessert side dish.” Now, I always make sure to taste as I go!
FAQ
Can I prepare sweet potato casserole ahead of time?
For more inspiration, check out this Thanksgiving Sweet Potato Au Gratin recipe.
Yes, you can prepare it a day prior and refrigerate before baking.
What can I use instead of pecans?
Walnuts or almonds work well as tasty alternatives to pecans. tasty cranberry sauce for balance.
Is sweet potato casserole healthy?
It contains nutrients from sweet potatoes but watch added sugars for balance!
Sweet Potato Casserole with Buttery Pecan Topping
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Serves 8
Description
Sweet Potato Casserole with Buttery Pecan Topping is a delightful blend of creamy sweet potatoes and crunchy pecans, making it the perfect comfort dish for any occasion. This easy-to-make casserole features rich flavors that evoke warmth and togetherness. Ideal as a side or dessert, it’s sure to impress at holiday gatherings or cozy dinners.
Ingredients
- 3–4 medium sweet potatoes (about 1.5 lbs)
- 1/2 cup brown sugar (light or dark)
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/2 cup whole milk (or milk alternative)
- 1 cup chopped pecans
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 large eggs
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Peel and chop sweet potatoes into even chunks. Boil in cold water until fork-tender, about 15-20 minutes.
- Drain and mash sweet potatoes in a large bowl. Mix in melted butter, brown sugar, milk, eggs, cinnamon, and vanilla until smooth.
- Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and spread the mashed sweet potato mixture evenly.
- In a separate bowl, combine chopped pecans with melted butter and brown sugar; sprinkle over the sweet potato layer.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (approx. 150g)
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 16g
- Sodium: 85mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 44g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
Leave a Comment