Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe

If you’re looking for a comforting dish that warms the heart and brings everyone together, this Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe is just what you need! This creamy casserole topped with crunchy candied pecans and toasted vegan marshmallows is always a hit at family gatherings or cozy weeknight dinners. It’s that kind of dish that instantly elevates any meal and fills the room with delightful aromas.

What makes this recipe special is how easy it is to prepare and how it celebrates the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes. Plus, it’s perfect for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a holiday feast or simply enjoying a quiet dinner at home. Let’s dive into why this dish will become a favorite in your kitchen!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Deliciously Sweet: The combination of sweet potatoes and brown sugar creates a rich flavor that everyone loves.
• Family-Friendly: Kids (and adults!) can’t resist the gooey marshmallows and crunchy pecan topping.
• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps, you’ll have a show-stopping side dish without any fuss.
• Make-Ahead Option: You can assemble it the night before and bake it fresh when you’re ready.
• Customizable: Feel free to tweak it to suit your family’s tastes—there’s plenty of room for creativity!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the ingredients for this Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe is a breeze! These simple, wholesome items come together beautifully to create an unforgettable dish.

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 casserole is its flexibility! You can easily modify it to match your preferences or what you have on hand.

• Add spices: Consider adding cinnamon or nutmeg for extra warmth and flavor.
• Switch up the nuts: Pecans are fantastic, but walnuts or almonds work beautifully too!
• Go gluten-free: Use almond flour instead of regular flour for a gluten-free option.
• Mix in fruits: Toss in some chopped apples or cranberries for added sweetness and texture.

How to Make Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Sweet Potatoes

Start by cooking your sweet potatoes. You can either boil them until tender or use a slow cooker or Instant Pot. I find that cooking them in an Instant Pot saves time and keeps them moist. Whichever method you choose, make sure they are soft enough to mash easily!

Step 2: Mash and Mix

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Once your sweet potatoes are cooked, mash them in a bowl until they’re nice and creamy. Then add in the eggs, vanilla extract, melted butter, brown sugar, salt, and heavy cream (or milk). Mix everything until combined but don’t over-whip; a bit of texture makes it even better!

Step 3: Spread in Baking Dish

Grease a 9×13 baking dish and spread your sweet potato mixture evenly across the bottom. This layer should be rich and inviting—make sure it’s smooth so each bite has that creamy goodness!

Step 4: Create the Crunchy Topping

In another bowl, combine brown sugar, flour, melted butter, and chopped pecans. Stir well with a spoon until everything is coated. Sprinkle this delicious mixture over your sweet potato base—don’t worry if it doesn’t cover every inch; those little pockets of flavor will be heavenly!

Step 5: Bake Away

Now it’s time to bake! Place your casserole in the oven uncovered for about 20-25 minutes. You want those pecans to caramelize slightly—this will give you that beautiful crunch on top.

Step 6: Add Marshmallows

After baking, sprinkle mini vegan marshmallows evenly over the pecan topping. Pop it back into the oven for another 5-7 minutes until they puff up and turn lightly golden. The combination of textures from creamy potatoes to crunchy pecans and soft marshmallows will make every bite unforgettable.

Serve warm and enjoy all the smiles around your table! This Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe is bound to become a cherished favorite in your home.

Pro Tips for Making Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe

Creating the perfect sweet potato casserole is all about small details, and I’m here to share some essential tips to elevate your dish!

• Choose the right sweet potatoes: Opt for firm, vibrant orange sweet potatoes, as they yield a creamier texture and sweeter flavor when cooked.
• Mash by hand for texture: Instead of using a mixer, mash your sweet potatoes by hand. This technique gives you a delightful texture that contrasts beautifully with the crunchy topping.
• Adjust sweetness to taste: Feel free to tweak the amount of brown sugar based on your personal preference or the sweetness of your sweet potatoes. A little taste test can go a long way!
• Let it cool slightly before serving: Allowing the casserole to rest for about 10 minutes after baking helps it set up nicely, making it easier to serve while still being warm and inviting.
• Experiment with toppings: Don’t hesitate to mix things up! You can add chopped walnuts or a sprinkle of cinnamon for a unique twist on this classic dish.

How to Serve Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe

Serving your sweet potato casserole can be just as fun and creative as making it. Here are some ideas to make it a standout dish during any meal!

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh herbs: A sprinkle of fresh rosemary or thyme adds a pop of color and an aromatic touch that complements the sweet flavors.
• Drizzle of maple syrup: For an extra touch of sweetness, drizzle a bit of maple syrup over the top just before serving.

Side Dishes

• Roasted Brussels sprouts: These crispy little gems provide a savory contrast and earthy flavor that pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the casserole.
• Garlic green beans: Sautéed green beans with garlic offer a nice crunch and bright green color, balancing out the richness of the casserole.
• Quinoa salad: A light quinoa salad with cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a lemon vinaigrette adds freshness and makes for a nutritious side.
• Cornbread: The crumbly texture and slightly sweet flavor of cornbread complement the creamy casserole perfectly—it’s like having two comforting favorites on one plate!

With these pro tips and serving suggestions, your Sweet Potato Casserole will surely impress everyone at the table! Happy cooking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This sweet potato casserole recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can make it ahead of time and enjoy the delicious flavors throughout the week. Here’s how to store and reheat your delightful dish.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the casserole to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer leftovers to an airtight container.
• Refrigerate for up to 4 days.

Freezing

• Let the casserole cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place the wrapped casserole in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• Freeze for up to 3 months. (When ready to use, thaw in the refrigerator overnight.)

Reheating

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Remove the casserole from the fridge or freezer and let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes.
• Cover with foil and bake for about 25-30 minutes if refrigerated, or 40-50 minutes if frozen, until heated through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about this sweet potato casserole recipe.

Can I use different types of sweet potatoes in this Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe?

Yes! While orange-fleshed sweet potatoes are traditional, you can also use purple or white varieties. Just keep in mind that different types may change the flavor slightly.

What can I substitute for eggs in this Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe?

You can use flax eggs as a great alternative! To make one flax egg, simply mix 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed with 2.5 tablespoons of water, then let it sit for about 5 minutes until it thickens.

Can I make this Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe vegan?

Absolutely! Just replace the eggs with flax eggs and use plant-based butter and non-dairy milk or cream instead.

How do I make my sweet potato casserole less sweet?

If you prefer a less sweet casserole, you can reduce the amount of brown sugar by half and add a bit more salt to balance out the flavors.

Can I add other toppings to my sweet potato casserole?

Definitely! Consider adding crushed nuts, oats, or even cooked quinoa for added texture and nutrition.

Final Thoughts

There you have it—a delightful sweet potato casserole recipe that’s both comforting and versatile! Perfect for gatherings or a cozy family dinner, this dish brings warmth and joy to any table. I hope you enjoy making it as much as I do—and don’t forget to share it with loved ones! Happy cooking!