Imagine a side dish so irresistible that it becomes the star of your holiday table, turning heads and making mouths water before the first bite. This Sweet Potato Casserole with Brown Sugar Pecan Topping isn't just a recipe – it's a culinary experience that transforms humble sweet potatoes into a decadent masterpiece. With its creamy, velvety base and a crunchy, caramelized pecan topping, this dish promises to elevate your meal from ordinary to extraordinary, leaving your guests begging for the recipe.
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 50 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 8 servings
Ingredients
- 4 cups mashed sweet potatoes
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1/4 cup butter, melted
- 2 eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup pecans, chopped
- 1/2 cup brown sugar (for topping)
- 1/4 cup flour (for topping)
- 1/4 cup butter, softened (for topping)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine mashed sweet potatoes, 1/2 cup brown sugar, milk, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract. Mix thoroughly until smooth and well-blended, using a hand mixer or whisk to ensure no lumps remain.
- Transfer the sweet potato mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly with a spatula to create a uniform layer.
- For the topping, in a separate bowl, combine chopped pecans, 1/2 cup brown sugar, flour, and softened butter. Mix until the ingredients form a crumbly, streusel-like texture.
- Sprinkle the pecan topping evenly over the sweet potato mixture, ensuring complete coverage.
- Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the edges are slightly bubbling.
- Remove from the oven and let the casserole cool for 10-15 minutes before serving. This allows the casserole to set and makes it easier to slice.
- Serve warm as a side dish, garnishing with additional pecans if desired. The casserole can be prepared ahead and reheated before serving.
Tips
- Choose the Right Sweet Potatoes: Select fresh, firm sweet potatoes with smooth skin for the best texture and flavor.
- Mashing Matters: For a super smooth consistency, use a hand mixer or potato ricer to eliminate lumps.
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure eggs and butter are at room temperature for better mixing and even baking.
- Don't Overmix: Mix ingredients just until combined to keep the casserole light and fluffy.
- Topping Technique: For extra crunch, toast the pecans briefly before adding to the topping mixture.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prepare this casserole a day in advance and reheat before serving, making holiday meal prep a breeze.
- Watch the Browning: Cover with foil if the topping browns too quickly to prevent burning.
- Serving Suggestion: Serve warm with a dollop of whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent touch.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 380kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 6g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Cholesterol: 95mg
