Why Make This Recipe
Sweet Potato Casserole is a comforting dish that brings warmth and flavor to your table. It combines the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with a crunchy pecan topping and fluffy mini marshmallows. This dish is often a favorite during holidays and family gatherings, making it a perfect addition to your meal.
How to Make Sweet Potato Casserole
Ingredients:
- 3 ½ pounds sweet potatoes (peeled and cut into large chunks)
- ½ cup brown sugar
- ½ cup butter (unsalted, melted)
- 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup pecans (chopped)
- ¼ cup butter (unsalted, melted)
- ¼ cup brown sugar (packed)
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 5 ounces mini marshmallows
Directions:
Sweet Potato Layer:
- Start by boiling the sweet potatoes in a large pot of water until they are tender. This usually takes about 20 minutes.
- Drain the sweet potatoes and transfer them to a mixing bowl. Mash the sweet potatoes until smooth.
- Add ½ cup brown sugar, ½ cup melted butter, 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, and ½ teaspoon salt to the mashed sweet potatoes. Mix well until fully combined.
- Transfer the sweet potato mixture into a greased baking dish, spreading it evenly.
Topping:
In a small bowl, mix together 1 cup chopped pecans, ¼ cup melted butter, ¼ cup packed brown sugar, and 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour. Stir until the pecans are well-coated.
Sprinkle the pecan mixture evenly over the sweet potato layer.
Top everything with mini marshmallows.
Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 25-30 minutes, or until the marshmallows are golden and slightly toasted.
How to Serve Sweet Potato Casserole
Sweet Potato Casserole is best when served warm. You can enjoy it as a side dish during dinner or as a sweet treat for dessert. It pairs well with roasted meats and other holiday dishes.
How to Store Sweet Potato Casserole
If you have leftovers, allow the dish to cool down before storing. Keep it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze it for longer storage. Just make sure to cover it well to prevent freezer burn.
Tips to Make Sweet Potato Casserole
- Use freshly cooked sweet potatoes for the best flavor. Canned sweet potatoes can be used, but they may not have the same texture.
- Adjust the sweetness according to your taste by adding more or less brown sugar.
- If you love a crunchier topping, consider adding oats to the pecan mixture.
Variation
For a different flavor, try adding some chopped apples or cranberries into the sweet potato layer. You can also substitute walnuts for pecans if you prefer a different nut.
FAQs
1. Can I make Sweet Potato Casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the sweet potato layer and the topping separately in advance. Then just assemble and bake when you are ready to serve.
2. Is Sweet Potato Casserole gluten-free?
To make this dish gluten-free, simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
3. Can I use different nuts for the topping?
Absolutely! You can use walnuts, almonds, or any nuts you like in place of pecans.
