Why Make This Recipe
Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecan Topping is a classic dish that always brings warmth and comfort to the table. This recipe is not only delicious but also simple to prepare, making it a perfect addition to family gatherings or holiday feasts. The sweet potatoes provide a base that is creamy and flavorful, perfectly complemented by the rich, crunchy pecan topping.
This dish is a wonderful blend of textures and flavors. The creamy sweet potatoes mixed with the nutty crunch of pecans creates a delightful contrast that will impress your guests. Every bite brings a little sweetness and warmth, making it a great way to celebrate any occasion.
Equipment Needed for Sweet Potato Casserole
To make this Sweet Potato Casserole, you’ll need a few essential kitchen tools. A large pot or Dutch oven will help you cook the sweet potatoes evenly. A mixing bowl will be necessary for combining your ingredients, while a handheld or stand mixer will make mashing the sweet potatoes easier. You will also need a medium bowl for preparing the pecan topping and a 9×13-inch baking dish or a 12-inch oven-safe skillet to bake the casserole.
Having measuring cups and spoons on hand will help ensure that all your ingredients are properly proportioned. A silicone spatula is handy for folding in the pecan mixture without clumping. Finally, make sure to have a good oven mitt for safely removing the casserole from the oven.
What You Need to Make Sweet Potato Casserole
- 2 pounds (908g) sweet potatoes, peeled (about 5 small/medium)
- 1/3 cup (5 Tbsp; 71g) unsalted butter, melted
- 1/2 cup (100g) packed light or dark brown sugar (I prefer dark)
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1/2 cup (120ml) half-and-half or heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/3 cup (41g) all-purpose flour (spooned & leveled)
- 1/2 cup (100g) packed light or dark brown sugar (I prefer dark)
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/3 cup (5 Tbsp; 71g) unsalted butter, melted
- 1 and 2/3 cups (210g) pecan halves or chopped pecans
- Optional: fresh rosemary or thyme, and flaky sea salt for garnish
How to Cook Sweet Potato Casserole Step by Step
Start by placing the sweet potatoes in a large pot or Dutch oven. Cover them completely with water and bring the water to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and simmer the potatoes for about 20 minutes, or until they are tender enough to be easily pierced with a fork. After cooking, drain the water and allow the sweet potatoes to cool for 15 minutes.
While the sweet potatoes are cooling, preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan or a similar-sized casserole dish. You could also use a 12-inch oven-safe skillet for this recipe. Once greased, set the dish aside for later use.
Next, take the cooled sweet potatoes and place them into a large mixing bowl. Using a handheld or stand mixer, beat the sweet potatoes until they are relatively smooth. It’s perfectly fine to leave a few chunks for added texture. You should end up with about 4 cups of mashed sweet potatoes. To this, add the melted butter, brown sugar, beaten eggs, half-and-half, vanilla extract, and salt. Mix everything together until well combined, then spoon or pour this mixture into your prepared pan.
Now you’ll prepare the pecan topping. In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the flour, brown sugar, and ground cinnamon until evenly mixed. Using a silicone spatula, carefully fold in the melted butter and pecans until everything is well combined and the mixture appears crumbly. Evenly spread this topping mixture over the sweet potato layer in the baking dish.
Bake the casserole in your preheated oven for 30 to 40 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the top is golden brown and crunchy. Once done, allow the casserole to cool for about 5 minutes before garnishing it with a sprinkle of fresh thyme or rosemary, along with a touch of flaky sea salt. Serve this dish warm for the best flavor and texture.
How to Make Sweet Potato Casserole
To make Sweet Potato Casserole, you start with fresh sweet potatoes. Boiling them ensures they are tender and easy to mash. This step is crucial, so allow the sweet potatoes to cool before mashing to avoid burns.
Preheat the oven to prepare for baking. Butter your baking dish to ensure that your casserole doesn’t stick. This is important for keeping the topping intact when you serve it.
Mix the sweet potato mash with other ingredients in a large bowl. Be mindful to beat them just enough, keeping some texture in the sweet potatoes. Once the mixture is ready, pour it into your baking dish, and spread it evenly.
Next, create the topping by mixing dry ingredients and then folding in the melted butter and pecans. Make sure it’s well combined to achieve that perfect crunchy texture on top.
Finally, bake your casserole until golden brown. This step is essential because it enhances the flavors while creating that delicious crust. Allow it to cool briefly before serving, ensuring that it’s deliciously warm.
How to Serve Sweet Potato Casserole
Sweet Potato Casserole can be served as a side dish or even as a dessert. Its sweet and creamy texture pairs well with savory meats, making it an excellent addition to holiday dinners or family gatherings.
When presenting the casserole, spoon a generous portion onto each plate and consider garnishing with a few additional pecans or a light sprinkle of ground cinnamon for added visual appeal. If you want, you may also add a few sprigs of fresh rosemary or thyme to enhance the aesthetic.
Serving this dish warm makes it all the more inviting. The aroma of baked sweet potatoes and pecans fills the air, making it hard for anyone to resist. It’s often a highlight during any meal, making it a go-to recipe for special occasions.
What to Serve with Sweet Potato Casserole
Sweet Potato Casserole pairs beautifully with a variety of main dishes. Its sweet flavor makes it a perfect complement to savory meats like roasted turkey, honey-glazed ham, or herbed chicken. These hearty proteins balance well with the creaminess of the casserole.
You can also serve it alongside a fresh green salad for a contrast in textures and flavors. A simple salad with vinaigrette can offer a refreshing bite that cuts through the richness of the sweet potatoes.
If you’re looking to add even more sides, consider including green beans or Brussels sprouts. Their slight bitterness works wonderfully to balance the sweetness of the casserole, creating a well-rounded meal.
How to Store Sweet Potato Casserole
Leftover Sweet Potato Casserole can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Ensure that the casserole is completely cooled before covering it tightly with plastic wrap or foil to maintain freshness.
When ready to enjoy it again, reheat individual portions in the microwave or place the entire dish back in the oven. If reheating in the oven, cover the casserole with foil to prevent over-browning and heat it until warmed through.
If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing this casserole. It can be stored in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating it.
Tips to Make Sweet Potato Casserole
To ensure your Sweet Potato Casserole turns out perfectly, using fresh sweet potatoes is key. Choose firm, unblemished potatoes for the best flavor and texture. When boiling, make sure they are completely submerged for even cooking.
It’s also important to measure your ingredients accurately. When measuring flour, spoon it into your measuring cup and level it off with a knife for precision.
If you wish to enhance the flavor, try adding a pinch of nutmeg or a dash of maple syrup to the sweet potato mixture. These ingredients can elevate the dish to a new level.
Consider pre-roasting the pecans for extra flavor. By doing so, you can enhance their nuttiness, adding depth to the overall taste of your casserole.
Variation
You can easily customize this Sweet Potato Casserole based on your preferences. For a healthier option, consider substituting the half-and-half with unsweetened almond milk or coconut milk. This will maintain the creamy texture while reducing calories.
If you want a bit of spice, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the sweet potato mixture. The touch of heat can create an exciting contrast with the sweetness of the potatoes.
Another variation is to incorporate marshmallows into the topping. Spread mini marshmallows on top of the pecan mixture in the last few minutes of baking for a gooey addition that many enjoy.
For those who prefer a dairy-free version, simply use vegan butter and a plant-based milk alternative, keeping the rest of the recipe the same.
Best Time to Make Sweet Potato Casserole
Sweet Potato Casserole shines during the fall and winter months. It is particularly popular during holidays such as Thanksgiving and Christmas. The warm flavors of sweet potatoes and spices are comforting during colder weather.
However, it can be enjoyed year-round. If you’re hosting a gathering or simply want to serve something special for family dinner, this casserole is an excellent choice any time of year.
Making it ahead of time can be beneficial as well. You can prepare it a day in advance, store it in the fridge, and bake it whenever you’re ready to serve.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
To avoid common pitfalls when making Sweet Potato Casserole, be cautious not to overcook the sweet potatoes. Overcooking can lead to a watery texture, which won’t hold up well in the casserole.
Another mistake to avoid is skipping the resting time after baking. Allowing it to cool for a few minutes ensures that the flavors meld together, making each bite more enjoyable.
Also, ensure you fold in the pecan topping gently to keep the texture light and crumbly. Overmixing can result in a dense topping that isn’t as enjoyable.
Finally, resist the urge to cover the casserole with foil while baking unless necessary. You want that beautiful golden top, which won’t happen if it’s covered.
Nutritional Notes
Sweet potatoes are packed with vitamins and minerals. They are an excellent source of vitamin A, which is essential for eye health and immune function. Additionally, they are high in fiber, which supports digestive health.
Pecans add healthy fats and protein, making this casserole a nutrient-dense option. While it is a rich side dish, it still delivers essential nutrients that can fit into a balanced diet.
Consider adjusting added sugars to tailor it to your dietary needs. You can reduce the amount of brown sugar in the recipe for a lighter treat without sacrificing too much flavor.
FAQs
Can I make Sweet Potato Casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the sweet potato mixture a day ahead, store it in the fridge, and bake it just before serving.
Can I use canned sweet potatoes instead?
You can use canned sweet potatoes, but they often contain added sugars and preservatives. If you do, be sure to drain them well and adjust the sugar in the recipe.
How long does the casserole last in the fridge?
Sweet Potato Casserole can last in the refrigerator for about 4 days when properly stored in an airtight container.
Conclusion
Making Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecan Topping is not only easy but incredibly satisfying as well. This delightful dish combines the creamy goodness of sweet potatoes with a crunchy, sweet pecan topping, resulting in a flavor and texture experience that is hard to beat.
Whether for a festive holiday meal or just a cozy family dinner, this casserole is sure to please everyone at your table. Enjoy the warmth and comfort it brings, and don’t forget to share this recipe with friends and family!
