You’re in for a delightful treat today! We are diving into a classic that brings so much warmth and joy to the table. Sweet Potato Casserole! This dish is the epitome of comfort food, blending sweet and savory flavors into a cozy casserole that makes any gathering feel like a festive occasion. So grab your apron, and let’s get cooking!
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Why You’ll Love This Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe
This Sweet Potato Casserole is a perfect blend of creamy, sweet, and crunchy all at once! Imagine the smooth, rich taste of sweet potatoes paired with the scrumptious crunch of pecans and the gooey sweetness of marshmallows. It’s not just a dish; it’s an experience! Whether you’re hosting a big family dinner or just treating yourself to something special, you’ll find this recipe easy, delicious, and oh-so-satisfying. Plus, the vibrant orange color is sure to brighten up any table-talk about eye candy!
How to make Sweet Potato Casserole
Ready to whip up this fabulous dish? Let’s go through the ingredients first, so you’ve got everything you need right at your fingertips!
Ingredients for Sweet Potato Casserole:
- 3 pounds sweet potatoes (peeled and cut into cubes)
- ½ cup brown sugar (packed)
- ⅓ cup butter (softened)
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- ¾ cup chopped pecans (divided)
- ¼ teaspoon cinnamon (or to taste)
- Salt and black pepper (to taste)
- 2 cups miniature marshmallows
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F. Grease a 9 x 13 pan.
- Place sweet potatoes in a pot of boiling water. Simmer for 15 minutes or until fork tender. Drain.
- In a large bowl (or in the pot the potatoes were cooked in), mash the sweet potatoes with brown sugar, butter, cinnamon, vanilla, and salt & pepper.
- Fold in half of the pecans and spread into the prepared pan.
- Sprinkle with the marshmallows and the remaining pecans.
- Bake for 25 minutes or until marshmallows are golden brown and potatoes are heated through.
What to Serve With Sweet Potato Casserole
This Sweet Potato Casserole pairs perfectly with a hearty protein like roasted turkey, ham, or even a juicy steak! It also shines next to a fresh green salad or some cheesy biscuits—talk about a match made in heaven! You can’t go wrong with serving it alongside your favorite holiday dishes, either!
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips of Sweet Potato Casserole
Want to prepare this casserole in advance? You totally can! Just assemble the casserole (up to the baking step) and cover it tightly with foil. Store it in the fridge for up to three days before baking. Just be sure to let it come to room temperature for a bit before popping it in the oven! Leftovers? They can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days and make a fantastic reheated snack!
Expert Tips for the Perfect Sweet Potato Casserole
- Use fresh sweet potatoes for the best flavor and texture!
- Don’t skip the cinnamon— it adds an extra layer of warmth.
- Want to switch things up? Consider adding a sprinkle of nutmeg for a twist!
- For a little extra crunch, toast your pecans before folding them in.
Recipe Variations and Substitutions
Feeling creative? You can mix in 1/2 cup of shredded coconut for a tropical flair! Instead of marshmallows, try topping it with a streusel made from oats, fresh pecans, and a touch of brown sugar yummmm! You can also use maple syrup instead of brown sugar for a different sweet kick!
FAQs
1. Can I use canned sweet potatoes?
Absolutely! Just be sure to drain them well and adjust the sugar to taste since they can be sweeter than fresh ones.
2. Is it possible to make this dish vegan?
Yes! Substitute the butter with coconut oil or vegan butter, and use maple syrup instead of brown sugar. Yum!
3. Can I freeze Sweet Potato Casserole?
Oh yes, you sure can! Assemble it (without baking) in a freezer-safe dish. Just thaw in the fridge overnight and bake as directed!
Isn’t it wonderful how simple ingredients can unite into this delicious dish? I can’t wait for you all to try this Sweet Potato Casserole, it’s a joyous occasion each time it’s served! Enjoy, and happy cooking!
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Sweet Potato Casserole
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A delightful and cozy Sweet Potato Casserole, blending sweet and savory flavors with a crunchy topping, perfect for gatherings.
Ingredients
- 3 pounds sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into cubes
- ½ cup brown sugar, packed
- ⅓ cup butter, softened
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- ¾ cup chopped pecans, divided
- ¼ teaspoon cinnamon, or to taste
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 cups miniature marshmallows
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F. Grease a 9 x 13 pan.
- Place sweet potatoes in a pot of boiling water. Simmer for 15 minutes or until fork tender. Drain.
- In a large bowl (or in the pot the potatoes were cooked in), mash the sweet potatoes with brown sugar, butter, cinnamon, vanilla, and salt & pepper.
- Fold in half of the pecans and spread into the prepared pan.
- Sprinkle with the marshmallows and the remaining pecans.
- Bake for 25 minutes or until marshmallows are golden brown and potatoes are heated through.
Notes
For the best flavor, use fresh sweet potatoes. You can prepare this casserole in advance and store it in the fridge for a few days before baking.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 22g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 52g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 15mg