Get ready to transform your ordinary dinner into an extraordinary culinary experience with this mouthwatering Sweet Potato Casserole! Imagine a creamy, perfectly spiced sweet potato base crowned with a crunchy, buttery pecan topping that will have your family and friends begging for seconds. This isn't just a side dish—it's a celebration of flavor that bridges traditional American comfort food with gourmet elegance, perfect for holiday gatherings or any meal that deserves a touch of deliciousness.
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 45 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs 5 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 8 servings
Ingredients
- 4 cups mashed sweet potatoes
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/4 cup butter, melted
- 2 eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1 cup pecans, chopped
- 1/2 cup flour
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1/4 cup butter, softened
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine mashed sweet potatoes, brown sugar, milk, melted butter, eggs, vanilla extract, and cinnamon. Mix thoroughly until smooth and well-blended.
- Transfer the sweet potato mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly with a spatula to create a uniform layer.
- For the pecan topping, in a separate bowl, mix chopped pecans, flour, sugar, and softened butter until it forms a crumbly mixture.
- Sprinkle the pecan topping evenly over the sweet potato base, ensuring complete coverage.
- Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the casserole is heated through.
- Remove from the oven and let it cool for 10-15 minutes before serving to allow the casserole to set.
- Serve warm as a delightful side dish, garnishing with additional pecans if desired.
Tips
- Choose the right sweet potatoes: Use fresh, organic sweet potatoes for the best flavor and texture. Roasting them before mashing can enhance their natural sweetness.
- Room temperature ingredients: Ensure eggs and butter are at room temperature for smoother mixing and better incorporation.
- Don't overmix: When combining sweet potato mixture, mix just until ingredients are incorporated to maintain a light, fluffy texture.
- Topping technique: For extra crunch, toast pecans lightly before adding to the topping mixture.
- Check doneness: The casserole is ready when the top is golden brown and the center is heated through. Use a knife or toothpick to test.
- Make-ahead friendly: You can prepare this casserole a day in advance and refrigerate, then bake before serving.
- Serving suggestion: Let the casserole rest for 10-15 minutes after baking to allow it to set and make serving easier.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 6g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Cholesterol: 75mg