Introduction
Transform your holiday table with this Sweet Potato Casserole! Fluffy, creamy, and topped with a crunchy pecan layer, it’s the side dish that steals the show every time. Say hello to irresistible comfort in every bite!
Detailed Ingredients with measures
- For the Sweet Potatoes:
- 4 pounds sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup warm milk
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- For the Pecan Topping:
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/3 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup pecans, chopped
Preparation Time
- Prep Time – 15 minutes
- Cook Time – 25-30 minutes
- Total Time – 45-60 minutes
- Yield – Serves 12
Directions
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Boil sweet potatoes until tender, then drain and mash them in a large bowl.
3. Mix the mashed sweet potatoes with sugar, milk, melted butter, eggs, vanilla, and salt until smooth and creamy.
4. Spread the sweet potato mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish.
5. In a separate bowl, combine brown sugar, flour, and melted butter to form a crumbly mixture. Stir in the pecans.
6. Sprinkle the pecan topping generously over the mashed sweet potatoes.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes, until the topping is golden and deliciously crispy.
8. Let cool a bit before serving and watch your guests marvel at its yumminess!
Nutritional Information
Each serving boasts:
Calories: 350 kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 3g
Fat: 17g
Fiber: 4g
Sugar: 25g
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Step 2: Prepare the Sweet Potatoes
Boil sweet potatoes until tender, then drain and mash them in a large bowl.
Step 3: Mix the Sweet Potato Mixture
Mix the mashed sweet potatoes with sugar, warm milk, melted butter, eggs, vanilla extract, and salt until smooth and creamy.
Step 4: Spread the Sweet Potato Mixture
Spread the sweet potato mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish.
Step 5: Make the Pecan Topping
In a separate bowl, combine brown sugar, flour, and melted butter to form a crumbly mixture. Stir in the chopped pecans.
Step 6: Add the Pecan Topping
Sprinkle the pecan topping generously over the mashed sweet potatoes.
Step 7: Bake the Casserole
Bake for 25-30 minutes, until the topping is golden and deliciously crispy.
Step 8: Cool Before Serving
Let cool a bit before serving and watch your guests marvel at its yumminess!
Notes
Storage Instructions
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole pairs beautifully with roasted meats and can be served at any holiday gathering.
Make-Ahead Option
You can prepare the sweet potato mixture a day ahead and keep it covered in the refrigerator. Top with pecan mixture right before baking.
Cook techniques
Peeling and Cubing Sweet Potatoes
Start by peeling the sweet potatoes with a vegetable peeler. Cube them into evenly sized pieces to ensure they cook uniformly when boiled.
Boiling Sweet Potatoes
Place the cubed sweet potatoes in a pot of salted water and bring to a boil. Cook until tender, about 15-20 minutes, then drain and mash.
Mashing for Creaminess
Use a potato masher or fork to mash the cooked sweet potatoes until smooth. This will help create a fluffy texture in the final dish.
Combining Ingredients
Ensure that the sweet potato mixture is mixed well with sugar, milk, and other ingredients until creamy and free of lumps. This step is crucial for a smooth casserole.
Creating the Pecan Topping
In a separate bowl, mix brown sugar, flour, and melted butter together until crumbly. Add chopped pecans and combine well for a crunchy topping.
Baking to Perfection
Spread the pecan topping over the sweet potato mixture and bake in a preheated oven until the topping is golden brown, about 25-30 minutes.
FAQ
Can I use canned sweet potatoes instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use canned sweet potatoes. Drain and mash them before mixing with the other ingredients, but the texture may differ slightly.
How can I make this recipe healthier?
Consider using a sugar substitute or reducing the amount of sugar. You can also use low-fat milk and butter alternatives.
Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the sweet potato mixture and the pecan topping separately, then refrigerate them until you’re ready to bake them together.
What can I substitute for pecans?
You can substitute pecans with walnuts or even oats for a different texture and flavor.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-5 days. Reheat in the oven for best results.
Conclusion
