Why Make This Recipe
Sweet Potato Casserole is a beloved dish, especially during the holiday season. It blends the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with rich flavors and delightful textures. This casserole not only tastes incredible, but it also brings warmth and comfort to family gatherings, making it a perfect choice for Thanksgiving or any cozy meal at home. Whether you enjoy it as a side dish or even a dessert, this recipe will surely impress your family and friends.
How to Make Sweet Potato Casserole
Ingredients:
- 4 medium sweet potatoes
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup milk (or cream for a richer texture)
- 1 cup mini marshmallows (optional, for topping)
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional, for topping)
Directions:
Creating this satisfying Sweet Potato Casserole is simple if you follow these steps:
- Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Prepare Sweet Potatoes: Peel and chop the sweet potatoes into quarters. Boil them in salted water for about 15-20 minutes until tender.
- Drain and Mash: Once cooked, drain the sweet potatoes and mash them in a large mixing bowl until smooth.
- Mix Ingredients: Add the softened butter, granulated sugar, brown sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt to the mashed sweet potatoes. Stir until fully combined.
- Incorporate Eggs and Milk: Beat the eggs in a separate bowl and then mix them into the sweet potato mixture along with the milk, ensuring everything is well incorporated.
- Transfer to Baking Dish: Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish and pour the sweet potato mixture into it, spreading evenly.
- Add Toppings: If desired, sprinkle mini marshmallows and chopped nuts evenly over the top of the casserole.
- Bake: Place in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is lightly browned and the casserole is heated through.
- Cool Slightly: Allow the casserole to cool for 5-10 minutes before serving. This helps set the topping and enhances the flavor.
These steps will guide you through crafting an incredible Sweet Potato Casserole that everyone will enjoy.
How to Serve Sweet Potato Casserole
You can serve Sweet Potato Casserole warm or at room temperature. It is an excellent side dish alongside roasted turkey, ham, or chicken. If you want a sweeter treat, you can serve it as a dessert, especially if you add marshmallows on top. A drizzle of maple syrup can also elevate the flavors!
How to Store Sweet Potato Casserole
To store any leftovers, allow the casserole to cool completely. Then, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3-5 days. You can also freeze the casserole; just ensure it’s in an airtight container. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then bake until warm.
Tips to Make Sweet Potato Casserole
- Use fresh sweet potatoes for the best taste and texture.
- Experiment with spices! You can add a pinch of ginger or allspice for a special twist.
- If you prefer a smoother casserole, blend the sweet potato mixture until completely silky before baking.
- These toppings can be customized; try using crushed graham crackers instead of nuts for a fun variation.
Variation
You can make this recipe vegan by substituting the eggs with flax eggs (one tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with two and a half tablespoons of water equals one egg) and using plant-based milk instead of dairy. Additionally, replace butter with coconut oil or a vegan butter alternative.
FAQs
1. Can I use canned sweet potatoes instead of fresh ones?
Yes, you can use canned sweet potatoes for convenience. Just make sure to drain them well and adjust the sugar to taste since they are usually sweeter.
2. Can I make Sweet Potato Casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare it a day before and keep it in the refrigerator. Just bake it on the day you plan to serve it.
3. Is Sweet Potato Casserole gluten-free?
Yes, it is gluten-free as it does not use any flour. Just ensure that all your ingredients, especially any toppings, are gluten-free if you have a gluten sensitivity.
Sweet Potato Casserole
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Peel and chop the sweet potatoes into quarters. Boil them in salted water for about 15-20 minutes until tender.
- Once cooked, drain the sweet potatoes and mash them in a large mixing bowl until smooth.
- Add the softened butter, granulated sugar, brown sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt to the mashed sweet potatoes. Stir until fully combined.
- Beat the eggs in a separate bowl and then mix them into the sweet potato mixture along with the milk, ensuring everything is well incorporated.
- Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish and pour the sweet potato mixture into it, spreading evenly.
- If desired, sprinkle mini marshmallows and chopped nuts evenly over the top of the casserole.
- Place in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is lightly browned and the casserole is heated through.
- Allow the casserole to cool for 5-10 minutes before serving to help set the topping and enhance the flavor.
Notes
