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Southern Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe
Why Make This Recipe
Southern Sweet Potato Casserole is a beloved dish, especially around the holidays. Its creamy texture and sweet flavors make it a standout side dish. You’ll love how it combines the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with the crunch of pecans. This dish is not only delicious but also comforting, making it perfect for family gatherings or special occasions.
How to Make Southern Sweet Potato Casserole
Ingredients:
- 3 cups mashed sweet potatoes
- 1 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 cup butter, softened
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup pecans, chopped
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup flour
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed sweet potatoes, sugar, milk, butter, eggs, vanilla extract, and salt. Mix until well combined.
- Pour the mixture into a greased baking dish.
- In another bowl, mix together the chopped pecans, brown sugar, and flour.
- Sprinkle this topping over the sweet potato mixture.
- Bake for 30-40 minutes or until the top is golden brown. Enjoy as a delightful side dish!
How to Serve Southern Sweet Potato Casserole
Serve this casserole warm as a side dish for dinner. It pairs well with roasted meat, turkey, or ham. You can also enjoy it as a holiday centerpiece. For added flair, sprinkle a few extra chopped pecans on top before serving.
How to Store Southern Sweet Potato Casserole
To store leftovers, let the casserole cool to room temperature. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container. Place it in the refrigerator, where it will last for about 3-5 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the oven or microwave until heated through.
Tips to Make Southern Sweet Potato Casserole
- Use freshly mashed sweet potatoes for the best flavor and texture. You can also use canned sweet potatoes, but be sure to drain them well.
- If you like a little spice, consider adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for an extra warm flavor.
- For a healthier option, replace some of the sugar with honey or maple syrup.
Variation
You can add mini marshmallows on top of the casserole for a sweeter twist. Just sprinkle them on in the last 10 minutes of baking for a toasted topping.
FAQs
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole a day before, store it in the refrigerator, and bake it just before serving.
What can I use instead of pecans?
If you have nut allergies or want a different flavor, you can use walnuts or skip the nuts entirely.
Can I freeze the casserole?
Yes, you can freeze it before baking. Just wrap it tightly and keep it in the freezer for up to 2 months. Thaw it in the fridge before baking.
Southern Sweet Potato Casserole
This Southern Sweet Potato Casserole pairs creamy sweet potatoes with a crunchy pecan topping, making it a perfect side dish for holidays and family gatherings.
Ingredients
For the Casserole
- 3 cups mashed sweet potatoes Use freshly mashed or canned sweet potatoes
- 1 cup sugar Regular granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup milk Can use whole or low-fat milk
- 1/2 cup butter, softened Use unsalted butter for better flavor control
- 2 large eggs, beaten Helps bind the mixture
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract For enhanced flavor
- 1/2 teaspoon salt Balances the sweetness
For the Topping
- 1 cup pecans, chopped Can substitute with walnuts if desired
- 1/2 cup brown sugar Light or dark brown sugar can be used
- 1/4 cup flour All-purpose flour works well
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed sweet potatoes, sugar, milk, butter, eggs, vanilla extract, and salt. Mix until well combined.
- Pour the mixture into a greased baking dish.
- In another bowl, mix together the chopped pecans, brown sugar, and flour.
- Sprinkle this topping over the sweet potato mixture.
Baking
- Bake for 30-40 minutes or until the top is golden brown.
Notes
Serve warm as a side dish for dinner; it pairs well with roasted meat, turkey, or ham. You can add mini marshmallows for a sweeter twist by adding them in the last 10 minutes of baking.