Get ready to transform your dinner table with a mouthwatering sweet potato casserole that proves healthy eating can be absolutely delicious! This isn't just another side dish – it's a culinary adventure that combines the creamy richness of sweet potatoes with a crunchy, irresistible pecan streusel topping that will have everyone begging for seconds. Whether you're looking to impress your family or add a nutritious twist to your holiday spread, this recipe is about to become your new obsession.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 8 servings
Ingredients
- 4 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup chopped pecans
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup flour
- 1/4 cup butter, melted
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with a little butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Peel and cube the sweet potatoes into uniform pieces, about 1-inch cubes, to ensure even cooking.
- Place the cubed sweet potatoes in a large pot and cover them with water. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to medium and let them simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes are fork-tender.
- Once cooked, drain the sweet potatoes and return them to the pot. Add the milk, maple syrup, and vanilla extract. Mash the mixture until smooth and creamy. You can use a potato masher or a hand mixer for this step.
- Spread the sweet potato mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish, smoothing the top with a spatula.
- In a separate bowl, combine the chopped pecans, brown sugar, flour, and melted butter. Stir until the mixture is well combined and crumbly.
- Evenly sprinkle the pecan streusel mixture over the top of the sweet potato layer in the baking dish.
- Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 30 minutes, or until the streusel is golden brown and the casserole is heated through.
- Once done, remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. This dish can be served warm as a side or a healthy dessert.
- Enjoy your healthy sweet potato casserole with pecan streusel!
Tips
- Choose the right sweet potatoes: Look for firm, smooth-skinned sweet potatoes with no soft spots or bruises for the best flavor and texture.
- Cut uniform cubes: Ensure your sweet potato pieces are roughly the same size to guarantee even cooking and a consistent texture.
- Don't overmash: When preparing the sweet potato base, mix until just smooth to avoid a gluey consistency.
- Make ahead friendly: You can prepare the casserole up to a day in advance and refrigerate. Just add the streusel topping right before baking.
- For extra richness, try replacing some milk with Greek yogurt or coconut milk.
- Customize your streusel: Feel free to add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the pecan topping for extra warmth and flavor.
- Check doneness: The casserole is ready when the streusel is golden brown and the edges are slightly bubbling.
- Let it rest: Allow the casserole to cool for 5-10 minutes after baking to help it set and make serving easier.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 5g
Fat: 16g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 25mg
