Get ready to transform your ordinary side dish into a mouthwatering autumn sensation that will have everyone at your table begging for seconds! This Autumn Sweet Potato Bake is not just a recipe; it's a warm hug on a plate, combining the rich, caramelized sweetness of sweet potatoes with the irresistible crunch of pecans and a hint of cinnamon magic. Whether you're hosting a family dinner or looking for the perfect holiday side dish, this recipe promises to elevate your culinary game with minimal effort and maximum flavor.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 4 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 1/2 cup pecans, chopped
- 2 tbsp butter, melted
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Prepare a 9x13 inch baking dish by lightly greasing it with cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking.
- Wash and peel the sweet potatoes. Cut them into uniform 1-inch cubes to ensure even cooking. Place the cubed sweet potatoes in the prepared baking dish, spreading them out in a single layer.
- In a small bowl, mix the melted butter, brown sugar, and ground cinnamon until well combined. Drizzle this mixture evenly over the sweet potato cubes, using a spatula or spoon to ensure all pieces are lightly coated.
- Sprinkle the chopped pecans over the top of the sweet potatoes, distributing them evenly to provide a crunchy texture in every bite.
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. Stir the sweet potatoes halfway through cooking to ensure they caramelize evenly and prevent burning.
- Check the sweet potatoes for doneness by piercing with a fork. They should be tender and easily pierced, with edges slightly caramelized and golden brown.
- Remove from the oven and let the dish rest for 5 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld and the sweet potatoes to cool slightly.
- Serve warm as a delightful side dish that captures the essence of autumn flavors.
Tips
- Choose the right sweet potatoes: Look for firm, smooth-skinned potatoes without bruises or soft spots for the best texture.
- Uniform cutting is key: Cut your sweet potato cubes into equal 1-inch pieces to ensure even cooking and consistent caramelization.
- Don't overcrowd the baking dish: Spread the sweet potatoes in a single layer to allow proper browning and prevent steaming.
- Watch the caramelization: Stir the sweet potatoes halfway through cooking to prevent burning and achieve that perfect golden-brown color.
- Let it rest: Allow the dish to sit for 5 minutes after baking to let the flavors meld and the potatoes cool slightly.
- Optional enhancement: For extra richness, you can add a sprinkle of sea salt or a drizzle of maple syrup before serving.
- Make ahead: This dish can be prepared in advance and reheated, making it perfect for busy holiday meal preparations.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 190kcal
Carbohydrates: 25g
Protein: 2g
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 10mg
