Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe

If you’re looking for a dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, you’ve come to the right place! This Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe is one of those comforting classics that never fails to bring smiles to family gatherings and cozy weeknight dinners alike. With its creamy sweet potato base topped with crunchy candied pecans and toasted vegan marshmallows, it’s a delightful balance of flavors and textures that everyone will love.

What makes this casserole so special? It’s not just the taste; it’s also how easy it is to whip up! Whether you’re celebrating holidays or just want to treat your loved ones on a busy evening, this dish fits the bill perfectly.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This recipe comes together in just about an hour, making it perfect for those busy days when you need something delicious without a lot of fuss.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike adore the sweet flavors and fun toppings, ensuring everyone at the table will be asking for seconds.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prepare this casserole ahead of time. Just pop it in the oven when you’re ready to serve!
• Wholesome Ingredients: Packed with nutritious sweet potatoes, this dish is not only tasty but also good for you.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect as a side for any meal, from Thanksgiving feasts to casual family dinners.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients to create this delightful casserole. Don’t worry; you probably have most of them already in your pantry!

For the Sweet Potato Base

• 5 pounds sweet potatoes (peeled and cut into 2 inch pieces)
• 1 cup water
• 2 eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ½ cup butter (melted)
• 1 cup brown sugar
• 2-3 teaspoons salt (or to taste)
• ½ cup heavy cream (or milk)

For the Topping

• ½ cup brown sugar
• ½ cup flour
• ⅓ cup melted butter
• 1 cup chopped pecans
• 3-4 cups mini vegan marshmallows

Variations

One of the best things about this Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe is how adaptable it is! Here are some fun variations to make it your own:

• Add Some Spice: Sprinkle in some cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm, aromatic twist that complements the sweetness beautifully.
• Nut-Free Option: Leave out the pecans or substitute them with sunflower seeds if you’re looking for a nut-free version.
• Different Toppings: Try using crushed graham crackers or oats mixed with brown sugar as an alternative topping for added crunch.
• Sweet Potato Swaps: If you’re feeling adventurous, mix in pumpkin puree or butternut squash for a different flavor profile!

How to Make Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe

Step 1: Cook Your Sweet Potatoes

Start by cooking those sweet potatoes. You can boil them until tender or use your slow cooker or Instant Pot—my favorite method! Cooking them this way makes them super creamy and flavorful.

Step 2: Mash Them Up

Once your sweet potatoes are cooked, preheat your oven to 375°F. Mash your cooked sweet potatoes until smooth, but feel free to leave some texture if that’s how you like them!

Step 3: Mix in the Goodies

In your mashed sweet potatoes, add in the eggs, vanilla extract, melted butter, brown sugar, salt, and heavy cream (or milk). Mix everything until it’s beautifully blended. Remember, don’t overmix; we want some delightful chunks of sweet potato!

Step 4: Prepare Your Baking Dish

Spread that delicious potato mixture evenly into a greased 9×13 baking dish. This will be the cozy base where all those flavors come together.

Step 5: Create Your Crunchy Topping

In a separate bowl, combine brown sugar, flour, melted butter, and chopped pecans. Mix gently with a spoon—no need for fancy gadgets here! Sprinkle this mixture over your sweet potatoes; it’s okay if they aren’t completely covered.

Step 6: Bake It Up

Bake uncovered in your preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes until those pecans turn golden brown and caramelized. The aroma will drive everyone wild!

Step 7: Add the Marshmallows

Finally, sprinkle mini vegan marshmallows over the top. Return it to the oven for another 5-7 minutes until they’re puffy and lightly browned. Then take a moment to appreciate that gorgeous sight before serving!

Let me tell you—this Sweet Potato Casserole will be a hit at any table! Enjoy every bite!

Pro Tips for Making Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe

Creating the perfect sweet potato casserole is all about the little details that enhance flavor and texture. Here are some tips to ensure your dish turns out beautifully every time!

• Choose the right sweet potatoes: Opt for firm, smooth sweet potatoes without any soft spots or blemishes. They’ll provide a creamy base and natural sweetness when cooked.

• Don’t over-mash: For a delightful texture, mash your sweet potatoes just enough to combine the ingredients. Over-mashing can lead to a gluey consistency, which we want to avoid!

• Adjust sweetness to taste: Everyone’s palate is different! Feel free to tweak the brown sugar amount based on your preference for sweetness, especially if you’re using particularly sweet potatoes.

• Let it cool slightly before serving: Allowing your casserole to rest for about 10 minutes after baking helps set the layers and makes it easier to serve.

• Experiment with toppings: While this recipe calls for pecans and marshmallows, don’t hesitate to experiment! Try adding coconut flakes or different nuts for a unique twist.

How to Serve Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe

This sweet potato casserole is not only delicious but also a feast for the eyes! Present it in an elegant baking dish or scoop it into individual ramekins for a charming touch at your table.

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh herbs: A sprinkle of fresh thyme or rosemary adds a pop of color and enhances flavor.
• Drizzle of maple syrup: A light drizzle just before serving brings out the sweetness and gives a lovely shine.

Side Dishes

• Green Bean Almondine: Crisp-tender green beans sautéed with toasted almonds create a beautiful contrast in texture and flavor.
• Roasted Brussels Sprouts: These caramelized veggies add depth and earthiness, balancing out the sweetness of the casserole.
• Quinoa Salad: A refreshing quinoa salad tossed with lemon juice, cucumbers, and cherry tomatoes offers a light and nutritious complement.
• Cornbread Muffins: Fluffy cornbread muffins pair perfectly with the creamy casserole, making each bite comforting and satisfying.

Enjoy your meal with loved ones, sharing stories and laughter over this cozy dish!

Make Ahead and Storage

This sweet potato casserole recipe is perfect for meal prep! Whether you’re getting ready for a holiday feast or just looking to simplify your weeknight dinners, this dish stores beautifully.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the casserole to cool completely before storing.
• Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing portions instead.

Freezing

• To freeze, allow the casserole to cool completely and then wrap it tightly with plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months.
• Label the container with the date for easy reference.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen casserole overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 25-30 minutes until warmed throughout.
• You can also microwave individual portions on medium power until heated through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions that might arise about this sweet potato casserole recipe.

Can I make this Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe without eggs?

Yes, you can use a flaxseed meal or chia seed mixture as an egg substitute. Mix 1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal or chia seeds with 2.5 tablespoons of water and let it sit for a few minutes until it thickens.

What can I use instead of heavy cream in the Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe?

You can substitute heavy cream with coconut cream or any plant-based milk like almond milk or oat milk. Just ensure that the alternative you choose is unsweetened for best results.

How do I know when my Sweet Potato Casserole is done baking?

Your casserole is done when the pecan topping is caramelized and golden brown, and the vegan marshmallows are puffy and lightly browned. This usually takes about 20-25 minutes of baking time after adding the topping.

Can I add other toppings to my Sweet Potato Casserole?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different toppings like crushed graham crackers, shredded coconut, or even chocolate chips for a fun twist!

Final Thoughts

I truly hope this sweet potato casserole recipe becomes a staple in your kitchen! It’s such a comforting dish that’s perfect for gatherings or cozy family dinners. The combination of creamy sweet potatoes, crunchy pecans, and fluffy marshmallows creates an irresistible experience. Enjoy making this recipe as much as I enjoyed sharing it with you! Happy cooking!