Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe

If you’re looking for a comforting dish that warms the heart and delights the taste buds, this Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe is just what you need. This creamy casserole is a staple at our family gatherings, bringing smiles to everyone’s faces. The sweet potatoes are perfectly mashed and topped with a crunchy pecan mixture and fluffy vegan marshmallows, making it a delightful side dish for any occasion—from busy weeknights to festive celebrations.

What I love most about this recipe is how easy it is to prepare. You can whip it up quickly, and it’s guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser! Whether you’re serving it for Thanksgiving or just want to add some comfort food to your dinner table, this casserole will shine bright.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple preparation: With straightforward steps, you’ll be enjoying this dish in no time!
• Family-friendly: Kids adore the sweetness of the potatoes and the gooey marshmallows on top.
• Make-ahead convenience: You can assemble it in advance and bake it just before serving.
• Delicious flavors: The blend of sweet potatoes, brown sugar, and crunchy pecans creates an irresistible taste.
• Versatile side dish: Perfect for any meal or gathering, this casserole fits right into any menu.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the right ingredients is half the fun of cooking! For this Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe, you’ll need some simple and wholesome items that are easy to find at your local grocery store. Here’s what you’ll need:

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

One of the best things about this Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe is how flexible it can be! Feel free to get creative and adjust the recipe according to your taste preferences or dietary needs. Here are a few ideas:

• Add spices: A sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg can elevate the flavor profile beautifully.
• Try different nuts: Swap out pecans for walnuts or almonds for a different crunch.
• Incorporate fruit: Add some diced apples or cranberries for an extra fruity twist.
• Make it dairy-free: Use coconut cream instead of heavy cream for a deliciously rich alternative.

How to Make Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Sweet Potatoes

Start by cooking your sweet potatoes until they are tender. You can boil them in water or use a slow cooker or Instant Pot—my favorite method for perfectly creamy results! Cooking them properly helps bring out their natural sweetness.

Step 2: Mash It Up

Once cooked, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Mash your sweet potatoes until they reach your desired texture—smooth or slightly chunky works great. Then mix in eggs, vanilla extract, melted butter, brown sugar, salt, and heavy cream (or milk) until everything is well combined.

Step 3: Spread in Baking Dish

Spread the sweet potato mixture evenly in a greased 9×13 baking dish. Don’t worry if it isn’t perfect; rustic is charming!

Step 4: Prepare the Topping

In a separate bowl, combine brown sugar, flour, melted butter, and chopped pecans. Stir well with a spoon—no mixer needed! Sprinkle this delightful mixture over the sweet potato layer.

Step 5: Bake Until Golden

Bake uncovered for about 20-25 minutes until the topping is caramelized and golden brown. The aroma will fill your kitchen and make everyone eager for a taste!

Step 6: Add Marshmallows

Finally, sprinkle mini vegan marshmallows over the top and return it to the oven for another 5-7 minutes. You want those marshmallows to puff up and turn lightly golden—it’s pure magic!

Now grab a spoon and dig in! This Sweet Potato Casserole will surely become a beloved addition to your meal rotation. Enjoy every bite!

Pro Tips for Making Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe

Creating the perfect sweet potato casserole is a delightful experience, and with these tips, you’ll elevate your dish to new heights!

• Choose the right sweet potatoes: Look for firm, smooth-skinned sweet potatoes without blemishes. The fresher and more vibrant they are, the better your casserole will taste.
• Mash with care: When mashing your sweet potatoes, aim for a smooth but slightly textured consistency. This gives your casserole a comforting mouthfeel that balances well with the crunchy topping.
• Customize your sweetness: Adjust the amount of brown sugar based on your taste preferences. If you love a less sweet profile, start with half and add more if needed after tasting the mixture.
• Let it rest before serving: Allowing the casserole to sit for about 10 minutes after baking helps it set up nicely, making it easier to serve and enhancing the flavors.
• Experiment with toppings: Feel free to swap out pecans for walnuts or add a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg on top for an extra flavor dimension. The possibilities are endless!

How to Serve Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe

Serving sweet potato casserole can turn an ordinary meal into something extraordinary! This dish not only tastes amazing but also looks beautiful on any table setting.

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh herbs: A sprinkle of fresh rosemary or thyme adds a pop of color and a hint of freshness that contrasts nicely with the rich flavors.
• Extra candied nuts: For those who love crunch, garnish with additional candied pecans on top just before serving. They provide an appealing texture and flavor boost.

Side Dishes

• Roasted Brussels sprouts: These crispy little gems bring a savory element that complements the sweetness of the casserole beautifully. Toss them in olive oil, salt, and pepper before roasting until golden brown.
• Green bean almondine: Fresh green beans sautéed with sliced almonds make for a light and crunchy side that balances out the richness of the casserole.
• Quinoa salad: A refreshing quinoa salad with diced cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, and a lemon vinaigrette adds brightness to your plate while providing a healthy grain option.
• Maple-glazed carrots: Sweet and tender carrots glazed in maple syrup create an irresistible side dish that pairs perfectly with your sweet potato casserole’s flavors.

With these serving suggestions, you’re all set to impress your family and friends at your next gathering! Enjoy every bite of this comforting dish!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a comforting dish without all the fuss on the day of serving. Whether you’re preparing for a holiday gathering or simply want to have a delicious side ready in advance, this casserole stores beautifully.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the casserole to cool completely.
• Transfer leftovers to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing

• Cool the casserole completely before freezing.
• Wrap tightly with plastic wrap and then aluminum foil, or use a freezer-safe container.
• Freeze for up to 2-3 months. Be sure to label with the date!

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Cover the casserole with foil and heat for about 20-30 minutes, or until warmed through. You can remove the foil for the last few minutes if you want a crispy topping.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delightful dish.

What ingredients are in your Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe?

This Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe features sweet potatoes, eggs, vanilla extract, brown sugar, butter, cream (or milk), and a tasty pecan topping with mini vegan marshmallows.

Can I make this Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole in advance and store it in the fridge or freezer. Just follow our tips on storing leftovers and reheating above for best results.

How do I add more flavor to my Sweet Potato Casserole?

You can enhance the flavor by adding spices like cinnamon or nutmeg, or even mixing in some maple syrup for extra sweetness.

Is there a vegan version of this Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe?

Yes! Simply substitute eggs with flaxseed meal mixed with water, and use plant-based butter and non-dairy cream to make it fully vegan while maintaining its deliciousness.

Can I use different nuts instead of pecans in this recipe?

Certainly! Feel free to swap out pecans for walnuts or almonds based on your preference. Just ensure they are chopped finely so they blend well into the topping!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this warm and inviting Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe! It’s not just a side dish; it’s a comforting addition that brings family and friends together around the table. Enjoy each bite of creamy sweet potatoes paired with that delightful crunchy topping! Happy cooking!