Sweet Potato Casserole With Pecans Recipe

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Sweet potato casserole with pecans is a comforting and delicious dish that perfectly balances sweetness and crunch. This dish is a holiday favorite, often served during Harvest celebration and Winter holiday, but it’s so good that you might find yourself making it year-round. The natural sweetness of the sweet potatoes, combined with warm spices, butter, and a crunchy pecan topping, creates an irresistible side dish that complements any meal. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, this recipe is simple to follow and delivers outstanding results.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Perfect for Special Occasions: A classic holiday dish that adds warmth to any dinner table.
  • Easy to Make: Requires just a few simple steps and common ingredients.
  • Rich in Flavor: The combination of cinnamon, nutmeg, brown sugar, and pecans makes every bite delicious.
  • Great Texture: Creamy sweet potatoes topped with a crispy, buttery pecan topping.

Ingredients

For the Sweet Potato Base:

  • 4 large sweet potatoes (about 3 pounds)
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar
  • 1/4 cup maple syrup or honey
  • 1/2 cup whole milk or heavy cream
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon alcohol-free alcohol-free alcohol-free alcohol-free vanilla extract
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt

For the Pecan Topping:

  • 1 cup chopped pecans
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt

How to Make Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecans

Step 1: Prepare the Sweet Potatoes

  1. Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Cook the sweet potatoes: Peel and cut the sweet potatoes into chunks. Boil them in a large pot of water for 15-20 minutes or until they are fork-tender. Alternatively, you can roast them whole at 400°F (200°C) for 45 minutes and scoop out the flesh.
  3. Mash the sweet potatoes: Drain the cooked potatoes and mash them in a large mixing bowl until smooth.

Step 2: Mix the Sweet Potato Base

  1. Add melted butter, brown sugar, maple syrup, milk, eggs, alcohol-free alcohol-free alcohol-free alcohol-free vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt to the mashed sweet potatoes.
  2. Mix until smooth and fully combined. You can use a hand mixer or whisk.
  3. Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish and spread it evenly.

Step 3: Prepare the Pecan Topping

  1. In a separate bowl, mix the chopped pecans, flour, brown sugar, melted butter, cinnamon, and salt.
  2. Stir until well combined and crumbly.

Step 4: Assemble and Bake

  1. Sprinkle the pecan topping evenly over the sweet potato mixture.
  2. Bake uncovered for 30-35 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and crisp.
  3. Let cool for a few minutes before serving.

Tips for the Best Sweet Potato Casserole

  • Use Fresh Sweet Potatoes: Freshly cooked sweet potatoes provide the best texture and flavor.
  • Don’t Overmix: Mixing too much can make the casserole dense instead of light and fluffy.
  • Adjust Sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet casserole, reduce the amount of sugar or maple syrup.
  • Make It Ahead: You can prepare the casserole a day in advance. Store it in the fridge and bake when ready.
  • Add Marshmallows: For a classic twist, sprinkle mini marshmallows on top during the last 10 minutes of baking.

How to Store and Reheat

  • Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
  • Freeze: Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
  • Reheat: Warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 15-20 minutes or microwave individual portions.

Serving Suggestions

Sweet potato casserole pairs well with a variety of main dishes. Here are some ideas:

  • Roast Turkey or Chicken: A perfect match for Harvest celebration or holiday dinners.
  • Grilled or Baked Salmon: The sweetness balances the savory richness of salmon.
  • Steak or Chicken thighs: Adds a touch of sweetness to complement hearty meats.
  • Vegetarian Dishes: Serve with roasted Brussels sprouts, green beans, or a fresh salad.

Variations and Customizations

  • Nut-Free Version: Substitute pecans with sunflower seeds or omit them entirely.
  • Dairy-Free: Use coconut milk or almond milk instead of dairy milk.
  • Gluten-Free: Swap all-purpose flour for almond flour or gluten-free flour.
  • Extra Crunch: Add shredded coconut or oats to the pecan topping.

Final Thoughts

Sweet potato casserole with pecans is a timeless dish that brings comfort and warmth to any meal. With its creamy texture, sweet-spiced flavor, and crunchy topping, it’s sure to be a hit with family and friends. Whether you’re making it for the holidays or a cozy weeknight dinner, this easy-to-follow recipe guarantees delicious results. Give it a try and enjoy the irresistible combination of sweet potatoes and pecans!

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