Southern Sweet Potato Casserole

 

Indulge in the warmth and sweetness of this Southern Sweet Potato Casserole, a beloved classic that graces many holiday tables. With its creamy sweet potato base and crunchy pecan topping, it’s sure to become a family favorite.

Whether served as a side dish or a dessert, this casserole is a delightful addition to any gathering.

Kitchen Equipment Needed:

1. Large mixing bowl
2. Potato masher or electric mixer
3. Casserole dish (9×13-inch or similar size)
4. Mixing spoon or spatula
5. Oven

Ingredients: For the Sweet Potato Base:

• 4 cups mashed sweet potatoes (about 3-4 large sweet potatoes)
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
• 2 large eggs, beaten
• 1/2 cup milk (whole or evaporated)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• Pinch of salt

For the Pecan Topping:

• 1 cup chopped pecans
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted

Directions:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish with butter or non-stick cooking spray.
2. Prepare the Sweet Potatoes: Scrub the sweet potatoes clean and pierce them with a fork. Bake them in the preheated oven for about 45-60 minutes, or until they are tender. Once cooled, scoop out the flesh and mash it in a large mixing bowl until smooth.
3. Make the Sweet Potato Base: To the mashed sweet potatoes, add the melted butter, brown sugar, beaten eggs, milk, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and a pinch of salt. Mix until well combined and smooth.
4. Transfer to Casserole Dish: Spread the sweet potato mixture evenly into the prepared casserole dish, smoothing the top with a spatula.
5. Prepare the Pecan Topping: In a separate bowl, combine the chopped pecans, all-purpose flour, brown sugar, and melted butter. Stir until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
6. Add Topping to Casserole: Sprinkle the pecan topping evenly over the sweet potato mixture in the casserole dish.
7. Bake: Place the casserole dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the casserole is heated through.
8. Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving. Serve warm as a side dish or dessert, and enjoy the comforting flavors of this Southern classic!