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 Thanksgiving and Christmas, 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.

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 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, 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 Thanksgiving or holiday dinners.
  • Grilled or Baked Salmon: The sweetness balances the savory richness of salmon.
  • Steak or Pork Chops: 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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