Sweet Potato Casserole

why make this recipe

Sweet Potato Casserole is a beloved dish that brings warmth and comfort to any meal. It is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. Sweet potatoes are naturally sweet and give a unique flavor to this casserole. This dish is perfect for family dinners, holidays, or anytime you want to impress your guests with a home-cooked meal. Additionally, the crunchy pecan topping adds a delightful texture that contrasts beautifully with the creamy filling.

how to make Sweet Potato Casserole

Ingredients:

  • 2 1/2 lb. sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into cubes
  • Cooking spray
  • 4 Tbsp. unsalted butter, softened
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1/2 cup milk, preferably whole
  • 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
  • 1 tsp. kosher salt
  • 1/2 tsp. ground nutmeg
  • 1/4 tsp. pure vanilla extract
  • 1 cup chopped toasted pecans
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
  • 4 Tbsp. unsalted butter, melted
  • 1/2 tsp. kosher salt

Directions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F and grease a medium baking dish with cooking spray.
  2. Place the sweet potatoes in a large pot and cover them with water.
  3. Bring the water to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer until the potatoes are tender, about 15 minutes.
  4. Drain the potatoes and let them cool slightly.
  5. Transfer the sweet potatoes to a large bowl.
  6. Add the softened butter and mash the potatoes using a potato masher or two forks until you reach your desired consistency.
  7. Add the eggs, milk, brown sugar, salt, nutmeg, and vanilla to the mashed potatoes, stirring until smooth.
  8. Pour the sweet potato mixture into the prepared baking dish.
  9. In a medium bowl, mix together the chopped pecans, flour, brown sugar, melted butter, and salt until everything is combined.
  10. Sprinkle the topping evenly over the sweet potato mixture.
  11. Bake the casserole in the oven until it is warmed through and golden brown on top, about 25 minutes.
  12. Serve warm and enjoy!

how to serve Sweet Potato Casserole

Sweet Potato Casserole is best served warm. You can enjoy it as a side dish with a variety of meals, including roasted meats and festive holiday feasts. It also tastes great alongside a simple salad. You can serve it directly from the baking dish, and it makes a lovely presentation.

how to store Sweet Potato Casserole

To store leftovers, allow the casserole to cool completely. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3-5 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze the casserole. Just make sure it is fully cooled and wrapped well to prevent freezer burn. It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.

tips to make Sweet Potato Casserole

  • For an even sweeter taste, you can add more brown sugar or a drizzle of maple syrup.
  • If you prefer a creamier texture, substitute some of the milk with cream.
  • Feel free to experiment with spices; cinnamon can add a warm note to the dish.
  • You can also use unsweetened canned sweet potato puree for a quicker option.

variation

For a gluten-free version, replace the all-purpose flour with almond flour or a gluten-free flour blend. You can also try adding mini marshmallows on top for a traditional twist. They will melt and create a fluffy topping that kids love!

FAQs

1. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the sweet potato mixture and the topping separately, then combine and bake them when you are ready to serve.

2. Can I use canned sweet potatoes?
While fresh sweet potatoes provide the best flavor and texture, you can use canned sweet potatoes. Just make sure to drain them well before using.

3. Is Sweet Potato Casserole vegetarian-friendly?
Yes, this recipe is vegetarian since it uses eggs and dairy but does not contain any meat products. You can also make it vegan by replacing the eggs with a flaxseed mixture and the butter with a plant-based alternative.

Sweet Potato Casserole

A comforting and delicious Sweet Potato Casserole, topped with crunchy pecans, perfect for family dinners or holiday feasts.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Course Side Dish
Cuisine American
Servings 8 servings
Calories 350 kcal

Ingredients
  

For the sweet potato filling

  • 2.5 lb sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into cubes
  • 4 Tbsp unsalted butter, softened
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1/2 cup milk, preferably whole
  • 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
  • 1 tsp kosher salt
  • 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
  • 1/4 tsp pure vanilla extract

For the pecan topping

  • 1 cup chopped toasted pecans
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
  • 4 Tbsp unsalted butter, melted
  • 1/2 tsp kosher salt

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F and grease a medium baking dish with cooking spray.
  • Place the sweet potatoes in a large pot and cover them with water.
  • Bring the water to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer until the potatoes are tender, about 15 minutes.
  • Drain the potatoes and let them cool slightly.
  • Transfer the sweet potatoes to a large bowl.
  • Add the softened butter and mash the potatoes using a potato masher or two forks until you reach your desired consistency.
  • Add the eggs, milk, brown sugar, salt, nutmeg, and vanilla to the mashed potatoes, stirring until smooth.
  • Pour the sweet potato mixture into the prepared baking dish.

Topping Preparation

  • In a medium bowl, mix together the chopped pecans, flour, brown sugar, melted butter, and salt until everything is combined.
  • Sprinkle the topping evenly over the sweet potato mixture.

Baking

  • Bake the casserole in the oven until it is warmed through and golden brown on top, about 25 minutes.
  • Serve warm and enjoy!

Notes

Sweet Potato Casserole is best served warm and can be enjoyed as a side dish with a variety of meals. For an even sweeter taste, you can add more brown sugar or a drizzle of maple syrup. If you prefer a creamier texture, substitute some of the milk with cream.
Keyword Comfort Food, Holiday Side Dish, Sweet Potato Casserole

    CookingPlates Author

    Welcome CookingPlates

    Hi! I'm Elizabeth, a passionate home cook sharing tried-and-true recipes for real families with busy schedules. From quick weeknight dinners to weekend treats, you'll find easy recipes using everyday ingredients.