Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecan Topping
Introduction
As the leaves begin to turn and the air grows crisper, I remember my grandmother bustling around the kitchen, the smell of sweet potatoes baking filling our home. Each autumn, she would prepare her famous sweet potato casserole, a dish that brought our family together to celebrate the harvest season. It was more than just a meal; it was a heartfelt tradition that signaled the arrival of Thanksgiving and the start of cozy gatherings with loved ones. This recipe, lovingly passed down through generations, features creamy sweet potatoes topped with a crunchy pecan topping that is simply irresistible. As you dive into this dish, you’ll not only savor the rich flavors but also feel the warmth of family traditions enveloping you. Get ready to create a festive masterpiece that will delight your friends and family!
Why You’ll Love This Colorful Explosion
- Comforting and nostalgic: Brings back memories of family gatherings.
- Gluten-free: Made with naturally gluten-free ingredients.
- One-bowl preparation: Reduces mess and makes cleanup a breeze.
- Kid-approved: The sweetness of the potatoes appeals to children.
- Vegan options: Easily adapted to suit different dietary needs.
Ingredients
-
For the Sweet Potato Base:
- 4 large sweet potatoes (about 4 cups mashed)
- 1/2 cup almond milk (or regular milk)
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
- Salt to taste
-
For the Pecan Topping:
- 1 cup chopped pecans
- 1/2 cup rolled oats
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons melted coconut oil (or butter)
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- Pinch of salt
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepare the Sweet Potatoes
- Cook the Sweet Potatoes: Boil the sweet potatoes in a large pot of water until tender, about 20 minutes. Drain and allow to cool slightly.
- Mash Them Up: In a large mixing bowl, mash the sweet potatoes until smooth.
- Mix in Ingredients: Add almond milk, brown sugar, maple syrup, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Mix until well combined.
Make the Pecan Topping
- Combine Topping Ingredients: In a separate bowl, combine chopped pecans, rolled oats, brown sugar, melted coconut oil, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. Stir until everything is coated.
Assemble and Bake
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Layer the Casserole: In a greased baking dish, spread the sweet potato mixture evenly. Sprinkle the pecan topping generously over the top.
- Bake: Place the casserole in the oven and bake for about 30 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and crispy.
Tips & Variations
- Add a twist: Consider adding chopped apples or cranberries to the sweet potato mix for extra flavor.
- Nut-free option: Replace pecans with a mixture of seeds like pumpkin and sunflower seeds.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the sweet potato mix for a hint of heat.
- Dairy-free: Use almond or oat milk instead of regular milk for a creamier consistency.
Storage Instructions
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Freeze: Freeze individually portioned servings wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil for up to 3 months.
- Reheat: Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, or use a microwave for quick heating.
Nutritional Information
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Calories per Serving: Approximately 250 calories
- Servings: 8
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use canned sweet potatoes instead of fresh?
Yes, but make sure to drain and rinse them well. Adjust the sugar in the recipe as canned sweet potatoes can be sweeter.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prepare everything, cover with foil, and refrigerate. Bake just before serving.
Is there a substitute for brown sugar?
You can use coconut sugar or white sugar with a little molasses mixed in.
Can I add marshmallows on top?
Definitely! Top with mini marshmallows in the last 10 minutes of baking for a traditional twist.
Serving Suggestions or Pairings
Pair this Sweet Potato Casserole with roasted turkey, a fresh arugula salad, or herb-infused dinner rolls. Complement with a warm apple cider or a crisp white wine to elevate the festive flavors.
Final Thoughts
This Sweet Potato Casserole is more than just a recipe; it’s a way to connect with the cherished traditions of family gatherings. I invite you to try this dish, share your experiences, and make it your own. What special touch will you add? Don’t forget to leave a comment and let me know how it turned out! Happy cooking!
Print
Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecan Topping
- Total Time: 65 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegan
Description
A comforting sweet potato casserole topped with a crunchy pecan topping that brings warmth and nostalgia to family gatherings.
Ingredients
- 4 large sweet potatoes (about 4 cups mashed)
- 1/2 cup almond milk (or regular milk)
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
- Salt to taste
- 1 cup chopped pecans
- 1/2 cup rolled oats
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons melted coconut oil (or butter)
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- Cook the sweet potatoes in a large pot of boiling water until tender, about 20 minutes. Drain and cool slightly.
- Mash the sweet potatoes until smooth in a large mixing bowl.
- Add almond milk, brown sugar, maple syrup, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt to the mashed sweet potatoes. Mix until well combined.
- In a separate bowl, combine the pecan topping ingredients: chopped pecans, rolled oats, brown sugar, melted coconut oil, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. Stir until coated.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a greased baking dish, spread the sweet potato mixture evenly, then sprinkle the pecan topping generously over the top.
- Bake for about 30 minutes or until the topping is golden brown and crispy.
Notes
For a nut-free version, replace pecans with a mixture of seeds. To add extra flavor, consider mixing in apples or cranberries. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 0mg