Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe

If you’re looking for a comforting dish that brings warmth and joy to any gathering, look no further than this Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe. The creamy sweet potatoes paired with a crunchy candied pecan topping and fluffy vegan marshmallows make every bite feel like a hug from the inside. It’s a family favorite in my house, and I’m sure it will become a staple in yours too!

This casserole is perfect for busy weeknights, potlucks, or holiday feasts. It’s simple to prepare and always impresses guests. Whether you’re serving it alongside roasted veggies or bringing it to a friend’s dinner party, this dish never fails to delight.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With just a few steps, you can whip up this delightful casserole without breaking a sweat.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the sweet flavors and crispy topping—it’s hard not to go back for seconds!
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prepare it in advance and pop it in the oven when you’re ready to serve.
• Deliciously Flavorful: The combination of sweet potatoes, brown sugar, and pecans creates a mouthwatering experience that feels like home.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the ingredients for this Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe is easy! These simple, wholesome items are likely already in your pantry or fridge. Let’s take a look:

For the Casserole

• 5 pounds sweet potatoes (peeled and cut into 2-inch pieces)
• 1 cup water
• 2 eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ½ cup butter (melted)
• 1 cup brown sugar
• 2-3 teaspoons salt (or to taste)
• ½ cup heavy cream (or milk)

For the Topping

• ½ cup brown sugar
• ½ cup flour
• ⅓ cup melted butter
• 1 cup chopped pecans
• 3-4 cups mini vegan marshmallows

Variations

This Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to make it your own with these fun variations:

• Add some spice: Sprinkle in cinnamon or nutmeg for an extra layer of flavor.
• Change up the nuts: Swap pecans for walnuts or even sunflower seeds if you prefer.
• Make it gluten-free: Use almond flour or a gluten-free all-purpose blend instead of regular flour.
• Mix in other fruits: Toss in some chopped apples or cranberries for a fruity twist.

How to Make Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Sweet Potatoes

Start by cooking your sweet potatoes. You can boil them until tender or use a slow cooker or Instant Pot—my favorite method! This step ensures they are soft enough to mash smoothly.

Step 2: Preheat and Mash

Preheat your oven to 375°F. Once your sweet potatoes are cooked, mash them until they reach your desired level of smoothness. Mixing them well allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

In a large bowl, add your eggs, vanilla extract, melted butter, brown sugar, salt, and heavy cream (or milk). Mix everything until smooth. Remember not to over-mix; leaving some texture gives more character to the dish!

Step 4: Assemble the Dish

Spread your sweet potato mixture evenly in a greased 9×13 baking dish. This will be the base of our casserole—so be sure it’s nice and even!

Step 5: Prepare the Pecan Topping

In another bowl, combine brown sugar, flour, melted butter, and chopped pecans. Mix well using a spoon (no mixer needed!). Sprinkle this delicious mixture over the top of your sweet potato layer.

Step 6: Bake Until Golden

Bake uncovered for about 20-25 minutes until the pecans are caramelized. The aroma during this step is simply irresistible!

Step 7: Add Vegan Marshmallows

Finally, sprinkle mini vegan marshmallows evenly over the pecan topping. Return it to the oven for another 5-7 minutes until they’re puffy and lightly browned. Serve warm and watch everyone enjoy this delightful treat!

Pro Tips for Making Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe

Creating the perfect sweet potato casserole is a delightful journey, and with these tips, you’ll ensure every bite is a heavenly experience!

• Choose the Right Sweet Potatoes: Opt for firm, vibrant orange sweet potatoes; they have the best flavor and sweetness to elevate your casserole.

• Mix to Your Liking: If you prefer a chunkier texture, don’t over-mash the potatoes. A little bit of texture adds character and makes each bite more interesting.

• Experiment with Toppings: Feel free to customize the topping! You can swap pecans for walnuts or add in some shredded coconut for an extra layer of flavor.

• Make Ahead: Prepare your casserole a day in advance. Simply cover and refrigerate it before baking. This not only saves time but allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

• Watch the Oven: Ovens can vary in temperature, so keep an eye on your casserole as it bakes. You want those pecans caramelized and marshmallows perfectly golden without burning!

How to Serve Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe

Serving your sweet potato casserole can be just as fun as making it! Here are some creative ways to present this delicious dish that will impress your family and friends.

Garnishes

• Chopped Fresh Herbs: A sprinkle of fresh parsley or chives adds a burst of color and freshness that complements the sweetness of the dish.

• Drizzle of Maple Syrup: Just a light drizzle over the top right before serving can enhance its sweetness and add a beautiful sheen.

Side Dishes

• Green Bean Almondine: Crisp-tender green beans sautéed with sliced almonds provide a crunchy contrast and a pop of green that brightens up your plate.

• Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Tossed in olive oil and roasted until crispy, these Brussels sprouts bring earthy flavors that balance out the sweetness of the casserole.

• Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, and lemon vinaigrette offers a refreshing side that pairs well with rich flavors.

• Garlic Mashed Potatoes: For those who love their spuds, creamy garlic mashed potatoes complement sweet potato casserole beautifully while adding another layer of comfort food goodness.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your sweet potato casserole will not only taste divine but also look stunning on your dining table! Enjoy every moment spent savoring this comforting dish!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can easily prepare it ahead of time, making your mealtime stress-free and delicious.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the casserole to cool completely before storing.
• Cover tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-5 days.

Freezing

• Cool the casserole completely before freezing.
• Transfer it to an airtight container or a freezer-safe dish, leaving some space for expansion.
• Freeze for up to 2-3 months. When ready to use, let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight.

Reheating

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Cover the casserole with foil to prevent it from drying out.
• Heat for about 20-30 minutes or until warmed through. For extra crispiness, remove the foil during the last 10 minutes of heating.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about this Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe!

Can I make this Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe without eggs?

Yes! You can substitute the eggs with flaxseed meal or chia seeds mixed with water. Use 1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal or chia seeds mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water per egg. Let it sit for a few minutes until it thickens!

How can I adjust the sweetness in my Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe?

You can reduce the amount of brown sugar if you prefer a less sweet dish. Alternatively, you can add a little bit of maple syrup or honey for a natural sweetness adjustment.

What can I use instead of heavy cream in this recipe?

You can use coconut cream, almond milk, or any non-dairy milk as a suitable substitute for heavy cream. Just ensure that it adds enough creaminess to the dish.

Final Thoughts

I hope this Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe brings warmth and joy to your table! It’s a delightful blend of creamy sweet potatoes topped with crunchy pecans and fluffy marshmallows that everyone will love. Enjoy making this comforting dish, and don’t hesitate to share your thoughts! Happy cooking!

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