Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe

If you’re looking for a dish that brings comfort and warmth, this Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe is just what you need. It has a creamy texture, a hint of sweetness from the brown sugar, and a crunchy pecan topping that makes every bite delightful. I love serving this casserole at family gatherings or during cozy weeknight dinners. It’s the perfect way to savor the flavors of sweet potatoes while enjoying quality time with loved ones.

This recipe is not only delicious but also easy to prepare, making it an ideal choice for busy days or special occasions when you want to impress without too much fuss. Get ready to whip up something truly special!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy preparation: With straightforward steps, you can have this dish ready in no time.
• Family-friendly: Everyone loves the combination of sweet potatoes and crunchy pecans; it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser!
• Make-ahead convenience: Prepare your casserole in advance and pop it in the oven when you’re ready to serve.
• Delicious flavor: The blend of sweet and savory with toasted marshmallows creates an unforgettable taste experience.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients that you likely already have in your pantry. Here’s what you will need:

For the Sweet Potato Base

• 5 pounds sweet potatoes (peeled and cut into 2-inch pieces)
• 1 cup water
• 2 eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ½ cup butter (melted)
• 1 cup brown sugar
• 2-3 teaspoons salt (or to taste)
• ½ cup heavy cream (or milk)

For the Topping

• ½ cup brown sugar
• ½ cup flour
• ⅓ cup melted butter
• 1 cup chopped pecans
• 3-4 cups mini vegan marshmallows

Variations

One of the best things about this Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe is how flexible it is! Feel free to customize it to suit your tastes or dietary needs.

• Add spices: For an extra flavor boost, try adding cinnamon or nutmeg to the sweet potato mixture.
• Nut alternatives: If you’re not a fan of pecans, consider using walnuts or almonds for your topping.
• Fruit add-ins: Mix in some chopped apples or cranberries into the sweet potato base for added sweetness and color.
• Vegan options: Substitute eggs with flax eggs and use coconut oil instead of butter for a completely plant-based version.

How to Make Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe

Step 1: Cook Your Sweet Potatoes

Start by boiling your sweet potatoes until they are tender. You can also use a slow cooker or Instant Pot if you prefer. This step is crucial because soft potatoes will mash easily and create that creamy base we love.

Step 2: Preheat Your Oven

While your potatoes are cooking, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). A hot oven helps create that beautiful golden topping later on!

Step 3: Mash and Mix

Once your sweet potatoes are cooked, mash them in a large bowl. Add in the eggs, vanilla extract, melted butter, brown sugar, salt, and milk (or heavy cream). Mixing until smooth is important, but don’t worry if there are a few lumps; they add character!

Step 4: Spread into Baking Dish

Grease a 9×13 baking dish and spread your sweet potato mixture evenly across the bottom. This forms the delicious base of our casserole that pairs so wonderfully with the crunchy topping.

Step 5: Create Your Topping

In another bowl, combine brown sugar, flour, melted butter, and chopped pecans. Stir well with a spoon—no mixer needed here! Sprinkle this mixture over the top of your sweet potato base; it’s okay if it’s not completely covered.

Step 6: Bake Until Golden

Bake uncovered for about 20-25 minutes until the pecans become caramelized and fragrant. This step adds texture and depth of flavor to each bite.

Step 7: Toast Those Marshmallows

Now comes my favorite part! Sprinkle mini vegan marshmallows evenly over the pecan mixture. Pop it back in the oven for another 5-7 minutes until they puff up and turn lightly golden. The marshmallows provide that fluffy sweetness we all crave!

Serve warm and enjoy every bit of this comforting Sweet Potato Casserole!

Pro Tips for Making Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe

Creating the perfect sweet potato casserole is easier than you think—just follow these simple tips to elevate your dish!

• Choose the right sweet potatoes: Opt for firm, smooth sweet potatoes without blemishes. They will provide a sweeter flavor and creamier texture that enhances your casserole.

• Don’t skip the mashing method: Whether you boil or use a slow cooker, ensure your sweet potatoes are thoroughly cooked before mashing. This prevents any lumps and gives a creamy consistency.

• Adjust the sweetness: Taste your sweet potato mixture before baking. If you prefer it sweeter, feel free to add more brown sugar or maple syrup to suit your palate!

• Keep an eye on the pecans: When baking, check on the pecan topping around the 20-minute mark. If they start browning too quickly, cover loosely with foil until done to prevent burning.

• Experiment with toppings: While this recipe calls for vegan marshmallows, consider trying coconut flakes or crushed graham crackers for a fun twist on your casserole!

How to Serve Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe

Serving sweet potato casserole can be as fun as making it! With a little creativity, you can turn this delicious side into a stunning centerpiece.

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh herbs: Sprinkling chopped parsley or cilantro adds a pop of color and freshness that complements the sweetness.
• Drizzle of maple syrup: A light drizzle of pure maple syrup over the top just before serving enhances sweetness and adds visual appeal.
• Cinnamon sprinkle: A dash of cinnamon on top not only looks lovely but also brings out the warm flavors of the sweet potatoes.

Side Dishes

• Roasted Brussels sprouts: Their earthy taste and crispy texture provide a delightful contrast to the creamy casserole, creating a well-rounded meal.
• Quinoa salad: A refreshing quinoa salad with vegetables and light dressing offers a nutritious balance that pairs beautifully with the richness of the casserole.
• Green beans almondine: Sautéed green beans with toasted almonds add crunch and brightness to your plate, making your meal more vibrant.
• Garlic mashed potatoes: For those who can’t get enough mashed goodness, garlic mashed potatoes are an excellent complement to this dish while maintaining that comforting vibe.

Now that you have all these great tips and serving suggestions, it’s time to whip up this Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe! Happy cooking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a delicious dish without the last-minute rush. You can easily prepare this casserole in advance, making your mealtime smoother and more enjoyable.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the casserole to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer leftovers to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing

• Allow the casserole to cool completely before freezing.
• Wrap the dish tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Store in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 2-3 months.
• Label with the date for easy tracking.

Reheating

• For best results, thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Cover the casserole with foil and bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until heated through.
• Remove foil and bake an additional 5 minutes for a crispy topping if desired.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe that might help you out!

Can I make this Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe vegan?

Yes! You can easily make it vegan by substituting the eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water per egg) and using plant-based butter and milk alternatives.

How do I know when my Sweet Potato Casserole is done baking?

Your casserole is ready when the pecans on top are caramelized, and the vegan marshmallows have puffed up and turned lightly golden. This usually takes about 20-25 minutes of baking time.

Can I use other nuts instead of pecans in this recipe?

Absolutely! While pecans provide a lovely flavor, you can substitute them with walnuts or almonds if you prefer. Just keep in mind that it may change the taste slightly.

What can I serve alongside this Sweet Potato Casserole?

This casserole pairs beautifully with roasted vegetables, a fresh salad, or even as a side dish for your holiday feasts. It’s versatile enough to complement various main courses!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in preparing this Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe! With its creamy texture and delightful crunchy topping, it’s sure to become a favorite at your table. Whether it’s for a family gathering or a cozy weeknight dinner, this dish brings warmth and comfort. Enjoy making it, and don’t forget to share your experience!