As the holiday season approaches, there’s nothing quite like a warm and comforting side dish to complete your festive table. This Sweet Potato Casserole recipe offers a delightful twist on a classic favorite, featuring a rich, caramel-like topping that perfectly complements the creamy sweet potatoes beneath. Whether you’re celebrating Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any special occasion, this casserole is sure to impress your guests with its sweet and savory harmony.
Ingredients for Sweet Potato Casserole
For the Casserole:
- 3 cups (720 ml) mashed cooked sweet potatoes, skins removed
- 1 stick (115 grams) butter, melted
- 1 can (13 oz / 370 ml) evaporated milk
- 1¼ cups (250 grams) sugar
- 2 large eggs
- ½ tsp (2.5 ml) nutmeg
- ½ tsp (2.5 ml) cinnamon
- 1 tsp (5 ml) vanilla extract
For the Topping:
- 2 Tbsp (30 ml) butter, melted
- ¼ cup (30 grams) all-purpose flour
- ½ cup (100 grams) brown sugar
- ½ cup (60 grams) pecans, chopped
How to Prepare Sweet Potato Casserole
- Prepare the Sweet Potato Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed sweet potatoes, melted butter, evaporated milk, sugar, eggs, nutmeg, cinnamon, and vanilla extract. Blend thoroughly until the mixture is smooth and well incorporated.
- Assemble the Casserole: Lightly grease a 2-quart (1.9 liters) baking dish. Pour the sweet potato mixture into the prepared dish, spreading it evenly to form the base of the casserole.
- Make the Topping: In a small saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons (30 ml) of butter over low heat. Once melted, add the brown sugar, chopped pecans, and all-purpose flour to the butter. Stir continuously to ensure the ingredients are well combined and the mixture is smooth.
- Incorporate Water: Gradually add 2 tablespoons (30 ml) of water to the topping mixture, stirring constantly until the mixture reaches a thick, caramel-like consistency.
- Apply the Topping: Evenly spread the caramel-pecan topping over the sweet potato mixture in the baking dish, ensuring that the entire surface is covered for a uniform finish.
- Bake the Casserole: Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius). Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for 30 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the casserole is heated through.
- Serve and Enjoy: Remove the casserole from the oven and allow it to cool slightly before serving. This dish pairs wonderfully with a dollop of Cool Whip or a sprinkle of extra pecans for added texture and flavor.
This Sweet Potato Casserole brings together the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with a luscious, caramelized topping that adds depth and crunch to every bite. Its pudding-like texture and rich flavors make it an ideal accompaniment to your holiday meals, offering a unique alternative to the traditional marshmallow-topped versions. Whether you’re preparing a grand feast or a cozy family dinner, this casserole is bound to become a beloved staple in your culinary repertoire. Embrace the season’s warmth and share the joy with this delectable dish that beautifully balances simplicity and sophistication.
