This sweet potato casserole is a family favorite. It has a creamy, sweet filling and a buttery pecan streusel on top. It’s great as a side or dessert, perfect for Thanksgiving and holidays.

The filling and topping together offer a mix of flavors and textures. It’s a dish that everyone will love.

The Perfect Holiday Side Dish: Sweet Potato Casserole

Sweet potato casserole is a classic holiday dish, especially for Thanksgiving. It has a creamy sweet potato base. This is made with 4 pounds of sweet potatoes, 1 1/2 sticks of unsalted butter, and a mix of granulated and brown sugar. It’s topped with a crunchy pecan streusel, offering a perfect mix of flavors and textures.

This casserole can be made ahead of time, which is great for busy holiday cooking. Each serving has about 209 calories. You can also make it fit different diets by using ghee or vegan butter and swapping pecans for oats.

Looking to add a touch of southern comfort to your Thanksgiving table? Or want to celebrate fall produce? This sweet potato casserole is the ideal side dish to enhance your holiday meal.

Prep-Ahead Convenience

This sweet potato casserole recipe is fantastic because it can be made ahead of time. This lets you focus on other dishes during the busy holiday season. The sweet potato layer and pecan topping can be prepared separately and then combined on serving day. It can be baked up to 48 hours in advance and reheated just before serving.

Dietary Considerations

• For a dairy-free version, use ghee or vegan butter instead of regular butter, and substitute dairy-free milk for the milk in the recipe.
• To make the dish nut-free, replace the pecans in the topping with rolled oats or a combination of pepitas and dried fruit.
• Marshmallows can be used as an alternative topping, which should be baked for about 7 minutes.

Whether you follow a specific diet or not, this sweet potato casserole recipe is a delicious way to enjoy the flavors of the season.

Essential Ingredients for Sweet Potato Success

Creating the perfect baked sweet potato dishes or sweet potato desserts starts with the right ingredients. From the sweet potato base to the rich pecan topping, each part is key. They work together to bring out the best flavors and textures. Let’s explore the must-have elements for a standout sweet potato casserole.

Sweet Potato Base Components

The heart of your casserole is the sweet potatoes. You’ll need about 3 pounds, fresh or canned. For a creamy base, add brown sugar, eggs, butter, milk or cream, vanilla, and a bit of salt.

Buttery Pecan Topping Ingredients

The pecan topping is the dish’s crowning glory. It’s a mix of brown sugar, flour, butter, and a cup of chopped pecans. A pinch of salt enhances the flavors and balances the sweetness.

Optional Flavor Enhancers

• Cinnamon: A pinch of cinnamon adds a warm, comforting taste to the sweet potato base.
• Molasses: A bit of molasses brings a rich, caramel flavor to the dish.
• Evaporated Milk: Using evaporated milk makes the texture even creamier.

This recipe is all about flexibility. Feel free to tweak the ingredients to match your taste. This way, you can make your own special version of this classic sweet potato casserole.

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

Making the perfect sweet potato casserole for the holidays is simple. Just follow a few easy steps to create a dish everyone will love. Here’s how to do it:

1. Start by heating your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Peel and cut 3 pounds of sweet potatoes into cubes. Or, use 3 cans of sweet potatoes to save time.
3. Put the sweet potatoes in a pot, cover them with water, and boil. Then, lower the heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes, until they’re tender.
4. Drain the sweet potatoes and mash them in a big bowl.
5. Add ½ cup of brown sugar, ⅓ cup of butter, ½ teaspoon of vanilla, and ¼ teaspoon of cinnamon to the mashed potatoes. Mix until everything is well combined.
6. Spread the sweet potato mix into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.

Now, let’s make the pecan topping that will make your sweet potato casserole even better:

1. In another bowl, mix ½ cup of brown sugar, ⅓ cup of flour, and ⅓ cup of butter until it’s crumbly.
2. Add ¾ cup of chopped pecans, saving half for the top.
3. Evenly spread the pecan topping over the sweet potatoes in the dish.
4. Bake the sweet potato casserole for 25-30 minutes, until it’s bubbly and the top is golden.
5. If you want, add 2 cups of mini marshmallows on top and bake for 5-10 more minutes, until they’re lightly toasted.

And that’s it! Your delicious sweet potato casserole with pecans and brown sugar is ready. It’s the perfect side dish for the holidays.

Creating the Irresistible Pecan Streusel Topping

The true star of this candied sweet potatoes dish is the decadent pecan streusel topping. This crunchy, golden-brown layer adds a delightful contrast to the creamy southern comfort food base. Let’s dive into the details of crafting this irresistible topping.

Mixing the Brown Sugar Base

Start by combining brown sugar, all-purpose flour, and a pinch of salt in a medium bowl. Gently stir these dry ingredients until they are evenly mixed. Next, melt some unsalted butter and pour it into the bowl. Use a fork or your fingers to incorporate the butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

Incorporating Pecans Perfectly

• Once the brown sugar base is ready, it’s time to add the star ingredient – chopped pecans. Fold the pecans into the mixture, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout.
• The nutty aroma and crunchy texture of the pecans will elevate this topping to new heights of deliciousness.

Achieving the Golden-Brown Finish

With the pecan-studded streusel prepared, it’s time to sprinkle it evenly over the top of the sweet potato mixture in the baking dish. During the baking process, the topping will transform into a beautifully golden-brown crust, providing a delightful contrast to the soft, creamy sweet potatoes underneath.

The combination of the candied sweet potatoes and the irresistible pecan streusel topping creates a harmonious balance of flavors and textures. It will have your guests craving seconds.

Tips for Achieving the Perfect Texture

Creating the perfect baked sweet potato dishes or sweet potato recipes is all about texture. To get a smooth, creamy consistency in your sweet potato casserole, follow these tips:

1. Utilize an electric mixer to whip the sweet potato mixture for a silkier, more uniform texture.
2. Make sure the center of the casserole is bubbling before removing it from the oven – this signifies the ingredients have fully cooked through.
3. Allow the casserole to rest for 10-15 minutes before serving, letting it set and develop a creamier consistency.
4. For an extra velvety feel, experiment with evaporated milk or heavy cream instead of regular milk in your recipe.

By keeping these texture-enhancing techniques in mind, you’ll be well on your way to achieving that luscious, melt-in-your-mouth sweet potato perfection your friends and family crave. Dive into the world of baked sweet potato dishes and sweet potato recipes with confidence!

“Simple and perfectly cooked!” – Satisfied Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe Reviewer

Make-Ahead and Storage Options

Hosting a perfect Thanksgiving feast is easier with prepped dishes. The sweet potato casserole, with its pecan topping, is a great choice. You can make it 3-5 days before, giving you a head start.

Freezing Instructions

For easy prep, freeze the sweet potato casserole up to 3 months. Just put it together without the pecans, cover it, and freeze. Then, thaw it in the fridge overnight before adding the pecans and baking.

Reheating Guidelines

Reheating is simple, whether frozen or refrigerated. Add the pecan topping before baking. If it’s cold, give it extra time to heat evenly and crisp the topping.

Storage Timeline

• Refrigerated: Store the baked casserole in an airtight container for 2-4 days.
• Frozen: Freeze it (without the topping) for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before baking.

With these tips, you can enjoy the sweet potato casserole with less prep. Enjoy the flavors and spend more time with your loved ones this Thanksgiving.

Recipe Variations and Substitutions

The classic sweet potato casserole with pecan topping is a Thanksgiving favorite. But, you can make it your own with many variations. Try using marshmallows instead of pecans or add orange zest or cayenne for extra flavor.

For a dairy-free version, use coconut oil or coconut milk. If you want less sugar, try maple syrup or honey instead of brown sugar.

• Use marshmallows instead of pecans for the topping
• Add a touch of orange zest or cayenne pepper for extra flavor
• Substitute coconut milk for a dairy-free version
• Reduce the sugar and use maple syrup or honey instead
• Swap out pecans for walnuts or almonds
• Incorporate a splash of bourbon or rum for a richer flavor

Finding the right mix of sweetness, spice, and texture is key. Experiment with different ingredients and let your taste guide you!

This fall recipe is all about trying new things. Don’t be shy to mix and match flavors and textures. Whether you stick to tradition or like to try new things, you can make the sweet potato casserole your own.

Nutritional Information and Serving Size

Sweet potato casserole is a tasty treat for Thanksgiving. A typical serving, about 1/8 of a 9×13 inch casserole, is quite nutritious. It has around 265-682 calories, 28-107g carbohydrates, 3-9g protein, and 16-27g fat.

The nutritional values vary because of different recipes and serving sizes. This dish is rich in vitamin A and fiber from sweet potatoes. However, it also has a lot of sugar and calories. So, it’s important to enjoy it in moderation.

This Thanksgiving side dish is loved by many. But, it’s crucial to watch your portion sizes. This helps keep your diet balanced and healthy.

Conclusion

Sweet potato casserole with pecan topping is a favorite during the holidays. It mixes creamy sweet potatoes with a crunchy pecan topping. This dish is perfect as a side or dessert, making it a hit at Thanksgiving.

This recipe adds a twist to the classic, using sweet potatoes and butternut squash. It’s great for those watching their carbs or following a gluten-free diet. It’s also good for diabetics, making it a versatile choice for any holiday meal.

When you eat this casserole, you’ll love the creamy sweet potatoes and crunchy pecans. The spices add a warm touch. It’s a dish that brings joy and comfort to the holiday season. Enjoy making and sharing it with your family, creating a special tradition for years to come.

FAQ

What makes sweet potato casserole a quintessential holiday dish?

Sweet potato casserole is a favorite at holidays. It has a creamy filling and a crunchy pecan topping. It’s great as a side or dessert, making it perfect for Thanksgiving and other holidays.

What are the key ingredients in the sweet potato base and pecan topping?

The sweet potato base includes sweet potatoes, brown sugar, eggs, butter, milk, vanilla, and salt. The pecan topping has brown sugar, flour, butter, chopped pecans, and a pinch of salt.

How do you prepare and bake the sweet potato casserole?

First, boil, bake, or use canned sweet potatoes. Then, mash and mix with other ingredients. Spread it in a dish.

Next, make the pecan topping by mixing brown sugar, flour, and salt. Add melted butter and chopped pecans. Sprinkle it over the sweet potatoes.

Bake at 350°F for 25-30 minutes. The center should bubble and the top golden.

How do you make the pecan streusel topping?

Mix brown sugar, flour, and salt for the streusel. Add melted butter until combined. Then, add chopped pecans and sprinkle over the sweet potatoes.

What are some tips for achieving the perfect texture?

Use an electric mixer for a smoother sweet potato mixture. Let the casserole rest 10-15 minutes before serving. This helps it set.

For creaminess, use evaporated milk or heavy cream instead of regular milk.

Can you make the sweet potato casserole in advance?

Yes, prepare it 3-5 days in advance and refrigerate. Or freeze for up to 3 months. Freeze without the topping, thaw overnight, and bake with the topping.

What are some variations and substitutions for the recipe?

Try using marshmallows or adding orange zest or cayenne for flavor. Use coconut milk for a dairy-free version. Reduce sugar and use maple syrup for a healthier option. Substitute walnuts or almonds for pecans.

What are the nutritional details for a serving of sweet potato casserole?

A serving (1/8 of a 9×13 inch casserole) has 265-682 calories. It has 28-107g carbs, 3-9g protein, and 16-27g fat. It’s rich in vitamin A and fiber but high in sugar and calories. Eat in moderation.