Introduction
Dive into decadent delight with this Sweet Potato Casserole, a twist on the classic Ruth’s Chris dish that’ll have everyone asking for seconds! Creamy, dreamy, and topped with a crunchy pecan crust, it’s the ultimate side dish or dessert (we won’t judge!). This recipe brings together the rich flavors of sweet potatoes and pecans, creating a heartwarming dish that’s perfect for gatherings, holidays, or anytime you want to indulge.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
- For the Sweet Potato Mixture:
- 4 cups cooked, mashed sweet potatoes
- 1/2 cup melted butter
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
- 1/2 cup milk
- For the Pecan Topping:
- 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
- 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup chopped pecans
- 1/3 cup melted butter
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
- Total Time: 40-45 minutes
- Yield: 8-10 servings
Directions
1. Preheat your oven to a cozy 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, stir together mashed sweet potatoes, melted butter, sugar, salt, vanilla extract, eggs, and milk until velvety smooth.
3. Pour this luscious mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
4. In another bowl, combine brown sugar, flour, chopped pecans, and melted butter to create the magic pecan topping.
5. Sprinkle the pecan topping over the sweet potato mixture for that indulgent crunch.
6. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden and a bit bubbly.
7. Allow it to cool for a few minutes (if you can wait that long!), then serve up the comfort and joy.
Nutritional Information
Each serving brings you a taste of warmth with roughly 365 kcal, packed with 40g of carbohydrates, 5g of protein, and 21g of fat to keep you satisfied. Enjoy this delightful Sweet Potato Casserole as a comforting addition to any meal!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to a cozy 350°F (175°C).
Step 2: Prepare the Sweet Potato Mixture
In a large bowl, stir together 4 cups of cooked, mashed sweet potatoes, 1/2 cup melted butter, 1/2 cup granulated sugar, 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, 2 large eggs (lightly beaten), and 1/2 cup milk until the mixture is velvety smooth.
Step 3: Transfer to Baking Dish
Pour this luscious sweet potato mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
Step 4: Make the Pecan Topping
In another bowl, combine 1/2 cup packed brown sugar, 1/3 cup all-purpose flour, 1 cup chopped pecans, and 1/3 cup melted butter to create the pecan topping.
Step 5: Add Topping to Casserole
Sprinkle the pecan topping evenly over the sweet potato mixture for that indulgent crunch.
Step 6: Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden and a bit bubbly.
Step 7: Cool and Serve
Allow it to cool for a few minutes, then serve up the comfort and joy.
Notes
Serving Suggestions
This Sweet Potato Casserole can be enjoyed as a side dish or dessert, perfect for holiday gatherings or family dinners.
Storage Instructions
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
Nutritional Information
Each serving contains approximately 365 kcal, 40g carbohydrates, 5g protein, and 21g fat.
Cook techniques
Mashed Sweet Potatoes
To achieve a creamy and smooth texture for your sweet potato mixture, ensure that the sweet potatoes are thoroughly cooked and mashed. Use a potato masher or a ricer for the best consistency, making it velvety and lump-free.
Layering Flavors
When combining the ingredients for the sweet potato mixture, add the melted butter first to make it easier to blend with the sugar and eggs. This method helps create a rich flavor base that elevates the dish.
Pecan Topping Perfection
For the pecan topping, toast the chopped pecans slightly before mixing them in. This enhances their natural flavor and adds an extra layer of crunch to your casserole.
Baking to Golden Goodness
Keep an eye on the casserole while it bakes. The perfect bake is when the top is golden brown and slightly bubbly, which indicates that the flavors have melded beautifully.
Cooling Time
Allow your sweet potato casserole to cool for a few minutes after removing it from the oven. This waiting period helps the flavors settle and makes serving easier.
FAQ
Can I use canned sweet potatoes instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use canned sweet potatoes for convenience. Just be sure to drain and mash them well before incorporating them into your mixture.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the sweet potato mixture and the pecan topping separately, then combine them right before baking or store them together in the fridge for up to a day.
What if I don’t have pecans?
If you don’t have pecans, you can substitute them with walnuts or even almonds for a different flavor and texture in your topping.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, you can use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend in place of regular flour to make the pecan topping gluten-free.
How should I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can reheat it in the oven or microwave when ready to enjoy!