Get ready to transform your ordinary side dish into a culinary masterpiece that will have everyone at your table begging for seconds! Our Yams with Pecan Topping isn't just a recipe – it's a flavor explosion that combines the creamy, sweet goodness of yams with a crunchy, caramelized pecan topping that'll make your taste buds dance with joy. Whether you're looking to impress your holiday guests or simply elevate your weeknight dinner, this dish promises to be the star of any meal.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 large yams, peeled and cubed
- 1 cup pecans, chopped
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Prepare a 9x13 inch baking dish by lightly greasing it with butter or cooking spray.
- Wash and peel the yams thoroughly. Cut them into uniform 1-inch cubes to ensure even cooking. Place the cubed yams in the prepared baking dish.
- In a separate mixing bowl, combine the melted butter, brown sugar, and ground cinnamon. Whisk the ingredients together until they form a smooth, well-integrated mixture.
- Drizzle the butter and sugar mixture over the yam cubes, making sure to coat them evenly. Sprinkle a pinch of salt over the yams to enhance their natural sweetness.
- Spread the chopped pecans evenly across the top of the yam mixture, ensuring a consistent coverage.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and place in the preheated oven. Bake for 20 minutes, then remove the foil to allow the pecans to toast and become golden brown.
- Continue baking for an additional 10 minutes or until the yams are tender when pierced with a fork and the pecan topping is crisp and caramelized.
- Remove from the oven and let the dish rest for 5 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld and the dish to cool slightly.
- Serve warm as a delightful side dish, garnishing with additional pecans if desired.
Tips
- Choose the Right Yams: Look for firm, smooth yams without any soft spots or bruises for the best texture and flavor.
- Uniform Cutting: Cut your yam cubes into consistent 1-inch pieces to ensure even cooking. This prevents some pieces from being undercooked while others become mushy.
- Don't Skip the Foil: Start baking with foil to keep the yams moist, then remove it to let the pecans get that perfect golden-brown crunch.
- Toasting Tip: For an extra flavor boost, lightly toast the pecans in a dry skillet for a few minutes before adding them to the dish.
- Make Ahead Friendly: You can prepare this dish partially in advance by cutting the yams and mixing the topping, then refrigerate and bake just before serving.
- Serving Suggestion: For an extra touch of elegance, garnish with a sprinkle of fresh chopped pecans or a light dusting of cinnamon just before serving.Pro tip: Let the dish rest for 5 minutes after baking to allow the flavors to meld and the caramelized topping to set perfectly!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 463kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: mg
