Get ready to transform your ordinary dinner into an extraordinary culinary experience with this mouthwatering Old Fashioned Sweet Potato Casserole! This classic American side dish is more than just a recipe – it's a nostalgic journey that brings warmth, comfort, and pure deliciousness to your table. Imagine creamy, perfectly spiced sweet potatoes topped with a golden, slightly crisp surface that melts in your mouth, creating a symphony of flavors that will have everyone asking for your secret recipe.
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 45 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs 5 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 4 cups mashed sweet potatoes
- 1 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 cup melted butter
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 tsp cinnamon
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and generously grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
- Wash and peel 4-5 medium sweet potatoes. Cut them into large chunks and boil in salted water until tender, approximately 15-20 minutes.
- Drain the sweet potatoes and return them to the pot. Mash thoroughly using a potato masher or electric mixer until smooth and free of lumps.
- Add sugar, milk, melted butter, eggs, vanilla extract, and cinnamon to the mashed sweet potatoes. Mix well until all ingredients are completely incorporated and the mixture is smooth.
- Transfer the sweet potato mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
- Optional: Sprinkle chopped pecans over the top of the casserole for added texture and flavor.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until the top is lightly golden and the casserole is set.
- Remove from oven and let cool for 10-15 minutes before serving to allow the casserole to set.
- Serve warm as a delightful side dish, garnishing with additional pecans or a sprinkle of cinnamon if desired.
Tips
- Choose the Right Sweet Potatoes: Select firm, smooth-skinned sweet potatoes with minimal blemishes for the best texture and flavor.
- Mashing Matters: For ultra-smooth sweet potatoes, use an electric mixer or ricer to eliminate lumps completely.
- Temperature is Key: Ensure your eggs and milk are at room temperature to help them blend more smoothly into the mixture.
- Don't Overbake: Watch your casserole carefully in the last 10 minutes of baking to prevent the top from burning.
- Make-Ahead Magic: You can prepare this casserole up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate before baking, making holiday meal prep a breeze.
- Pecan Pro Tip: For extra crunch, toast the pecans lightly in a dry skillet before sprinkling them on top of the casserole.
- Serving Suggestion: Let the casserole rest for 10-15 minutes after baking to allow it to set and make serving easier.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 420kcal
Carbohydrates: 55g
Protein: 6g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Cholesterol: 95mg
