Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecans

Name: Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecans
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2-3 medium-sized sweet potatoes; 1 cup packed brown sugar; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 cup chopped pecans (toasted); 4 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted)

Published: February 14, 2025

by mimi

Why You’ll Love This Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecans

Delicious Flavor Combination: The mix of sweet potatoes and toasted pecans creates an incredible harmony of flavors that will delight your taste buds.
Perfect for Any Occasion: This casserole is versatile enough for holiday gatherings, potlucks, or even weeknight dinners when you crave comfort food.
Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe makes cooking enjoyable without overwhelming your schedule.
Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with vitamins and minerals from sweet potatoes and healthy fats from pecans, this dish offers nutritional benefits while being delicious.

Recipe preparation

Ingredients for Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecans

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Sweet Potatoes: Choose firm and smooth-skinned sweet potatoes for optimal flavor; about 2-3 medium-sized should suffice.
Brown Sugar: Use packed brown sugar to enhance the sweetness and provide a rich molasses flavor.
Cinnamon: Ground cinnamon adds warmth and depth; it’s essential for complementing the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes.
Vanilla Extract: A splash of pure vanilla extract elevates the overall flavor profile of the casserole.

For the Topping:

Pecans: Toasted chopped pecans add crunch; select fresh nuts for maximum flavor and texture.
Melted Butter: Use unsalted butter to control salt levels while contributing richness to the topping mixture.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecans

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a baking dish lightly with nonstick spray or butter.

Step 2: Prepare Sweet Potatoes

Peel and chop the sweet potatoes into even chunks. Boil them in salted water until tender, about 15-20 minutes. Drain well.

Step 3: Mash and Mix Ingredients

In a large bowl, mash the cooked sweet potatoes until smooth. Stir in brown sugar, cinnamon, vanilla extract, and melted butter until well combined.

Step 4: Transfer Mixture

Spread the mashed sweet potato mixture evenly into your prepared baking dish.

Step 5: Prepare Pecan Topping

In a separate bowl, mix together chopped toasted pecans, melted butter, brown sugar, and a pinch of salt. Sprinkle this topping evenly over the sweet potato layer.

Step 6: Bake Until Golden Brown

Bake in preheated oven for about 30-35 minutes or until golden brown on top.

Transfer to plates and serve warm as an enticing side dish that everyone will love.

Serving and storing

Tips and Tricks

Here are some helpful tips to ensure the best results for your dish:

Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh sweet potatoes and nuts for maximum flavor; avoid canned alternatives if possible.
Adjust Sweetness to Taste: Feel free to customize sugar levels based on your preference—add more or less as desired.
Make Ahead Option: You can prepare this casserole up to one day in advance; simply cover it tightly in plastic wrap before baking.

Mistakes to avoid

Skipping the Sweet Potato Preparation: One common mistake when making Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecans is not preparing the sweet potatoes properly. Make sure to peel and chop your sweet potatoes into uniform pieces before boiling or baking them. This ensures even cooking and helps achieve that perfect creamy texture. If you skip this step, you may end up with unevenly cooked potatoes that can ruin the dish’s overall consistency.
Not Balancing the Sweetness: Another mistake is using too much sugar in your casserole. While sweet potatoes are naturally sweet, adding excessive sugar can overwhelm the dish. Aim for a balance by tasting as you go. Consider reducing added sugars or complementing them with spices like cinnamon or nutmeg to enhance flavor without making it overly sweet.
Overbaking the Casserole: Overcooking your Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecans can lead to a dry and crumbly texture. Keep an eye on it while baking. Typically, it should bake until it’s heated through and slightly golden on top—around 25-30 minutes at 350°F should be enough. If you notice that it’s browning too quickly, cover it loosely with aluminum foil to prevent burning.

Serving Suggestions for Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecans

This Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecans is versatile and pairs wonderfully with:

Roasted Turkey: The creamy texture and sweet flavor of the casserole complement the savory notes of roasted turkey, making it a perfect holiday dish.
Green Bean Almondine: The crunchy almonds and fresh green beans provide a delightful contrast to the smoothness of the casserole.
Cranberry Sauce: The tartness of cranberry sauce balances the sweetness of the sweet potato casserole, creating a harmonious plate.

FAQs

FAQs about Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecans:

How do I store Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecans?

To store Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecans, allow it to cool completely after baking. Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate for up to five days. If you want to freeze it, use an airtight container or freezer-safe dish. It can last up to three months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating in the oven until warm.

Can I make Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecans ahead of time?

Absolutely. You can prepare Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecans a day in advance. Simply assemble the casserole up until baking, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. On the day you plan to serve it, preheat your oven and bake straight from the fridge. This method saves time and makes your meal prep easier without sacrificing taste.

What are some variations for Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecans?

There are several delicious variations for Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecans. You can add spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for extra warmth. For a twist, try incorporating maple syrup or brown sugar for added sweetness. Additionally, consider using different nuts such as walnuts or almonds in place of pecans for a unique flavor profile while maintaining that lovely crunch.

Is Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecans gluten-free?

Yes, Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecans can be made gluten-free. Ensure that any additional ingredients such as marshmallows or toppings are certified gluten-free. You can also replace traditional flour-based ingredients with gluten-free alternatives if you’re making modifications to thicken or bind the mixture. Enjoy this comforting dish without worry.

Conclusion for Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecans :

In conclusion, Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecans is a delightful and comforting dish perfect for any occasion. Its creamy texture combined with crunchy pecan topping creates a beautiful contrast that pleases both the palate and the eyes. With easy preparation methods and storage solutions, this casserole fits seamlessly into your holiday meal planning or any family gathering. By pairing it with complementary dishes like roasted turkey or green bean almondine, you create a festive table full of flavor. Whether enjoyed fresh out of the oven or reheated later, this casserole remains a crowd-pleaser every time.

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📖 Recipe Card