Heavenly Sweet Potato Casserole
If there’s one dish that truly captures the essence of comfort and celebration, itβs this delectable Sweet Potato Casserole. Perfect for holiday feasts or any occasion that calls for a touch of homey goodness, this recipe, shared by my daughter, has become a cherished staple in our kitchen. Itβs incredibly simple to make, yet its rich, sweet flavors make it a standout on any table. So, roll up your sleeves and get ready to whip up a dish thatβs bound to delight everyone who tastes it.
Ingredients
For the Sweet Potato Mixture:
- 3 cups mashed sweet potatoes (about 4-5 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and cooked until tender)
- 2 large eggs (beaten)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup butter (melted)
For the Topping:
- 1 cup packed brown sugar
- 1/2 cup flour
- 1 cup chopped pecans
- 1/3 cup butter (cold and cut into small pieces)
Instructions
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Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350Β°F (175Β°C). This ensures that your casserole bakes evenly and gets that lovely golden-brown crust on top.
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Prepare the Sweet Potato Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed sweet potatoes, beaten eggs, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and melted butter. Stir everything together until the mixture is smooth and well combined. This sweet potato base is the heart of the casserole, so make sure it’s thoroughly mixed.
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Transfer to Baking Dish: Lightly grease a large casserole dish with cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking. Pour the sweet potato mixture into the prepared dish, spreading it out evenly.
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Make the Topping: In a separate bowl, mix together the brown sugar and flour. Add the cold, diced butter and use your fingers or a pastry cutter to work the butter into the sugar and flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in the chopped pecans. This topping will add a delightful crunch and sweetness to the casserole.
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Assemble and Bake: Sprinkle the topping evenly over the sweet potato mixture, ensuring that all of the sweet potatoes are covered. This creates a delicious, crunchy layer on top that contrasts beautifully with the creamy sweet potato base.
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Bake to Perfection: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for about 35 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the casserole is bubbly around the edges. You can test the doneness by inserting a knife into the center of the casserole; it should come out clean when the dish is ready.
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Serve and Enjoy: Once baked, let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. This dish is perfect for holiday gatherings, family dinners, or even as a comforting side for any meal. Enjoy the rich, sweet flavors and the crunchy topping that makes every bite a delight.
Nutritional Information
Per serving:
- Calories: 807.8
- Fat: 40.6 grams
- Saturated Fat: 17.9 grams
- Cholesterol: 138.3 mg
- Sodium: 263.7 mg
- Carbohydrates: 108.8 grams
- Fiber: 6.1 grams
- Sugar: 79 grams
- Protein: 7.3 grams
Tips and Variations
- Sweet Potato Prep: For a smoother texture, make sure to mash the sweet potatoes well. You can use a hand masher or a food processor to get them nice and smooth.
- Nut Alternatives: If you prefer, you can substitute pecans with walnuts or almonds for a different nutty flavor.
- Make Ahead: This casserole can be prepared a day in advance. Simply assemble it, cover, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, allow it to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking to ensure even cooking.
With its rich flavors and comforting texture, this Sweet Potato Casserole is sure to become a favorite in your household just as it has in ours. Whether it’s for a special occasion or a cozy family meal, this recipe brings a touch of warmth and sweetness to any table. Enjoy every delicious bite! π π½οΈβ¨
