Why Make This Recipe
Sweet Potato Casserole is a delightful dish that balances sweetness with warmth, making it a perfect addition to family gatherings or holiday feasts. Its creamy texture and crunchy topping provide a satisfying contrast that is hard to resist. Plus, it’s a great way to enjoy the nutritious benefits of sweet potatoes while indulging in a comforting, rich flavor profile.
How to Make Sweet Potato Casserole
Ingredients:
- 3 lbs Sweet Potatoes
- 6 Tablespoons Butter (melted)
- 1/2 cup Sugar
- 2 large Eggs
- 2 teaspoons Vanilla Extract
- 1 teaspoon Cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon Salt
- 1/4 cup Half-n-Half
- 3 Tablespoons Salted Butter (softened)
- 1 cup Brown Sugar
- 1/3 cup Flour
Directions:
- Preheat oven to 400 degrees F.
- Place sweet potatoes on a baking sheet and pierce them with a fork.
- Bake for about 50 minutes to 1 hour until soft.
- Cut sweet potatoes in half and scoop out the flesh into a large bowl.
- Add melted butter, sugar, eggs, vanilla, cinnamon, salt, and half-n-half; whip until creamy.
- Spread the mixture in a 9 x 13 baking dish.
- For the topping, mix softened butter, brown sugar, and flour in a small bowl until coarse crumbs form. Sprinkle this over the sweet potato mixture.
- Bake at 350 degrees F for 20-25 minutes until warm and the topping is cooked through.
- Serve warm or refrigerate for later.
How to Serve Sweet Potato Casserole
Sweet Potato Casserole can be served warm as a side dish alongside your main meal. It’s wonderful paired with roasted meats, particularly during holiday dinners. If you prefer, you can also enjoy it on its own as a comforting snack or dessert.
How to Store Sweet Potato Casserole
To store Sweet Potato Casserole, let it cool completely. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in the refrigerator. It stays fresh for about 3-5 days. You can also freeze it for up to a month. Just make sure to thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Tips to Make Sweet Potato Casserole
- Make sure to thoroughly pierce the sweet potatoes before baking; this helps them steam and cook evenly.
- For a smoother texture, consider using a hand mixer to mash the sweet potatoes.
- If you want to add a twist, try mixing in some chopped pecans or walnuts for extra crunch in the topping.
Variation
You can easily spice up Sweet Potato Casserole by adding mini marshmallows on top during the last 10 minutes of baking for a classic twist, or using maple syrup instead of sugar for a richer flavor.
FAQs
1. Can I use canned sweet potatoes instead of fresh?
Yes, using canned sweet potatoes can save time. Just make sure to drain and mash them before mixing in the other ingredients.
2. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole a day in advance, store it in the fridge, and then bake it just before serving.
3. Is it possible to make a dairy-free version?
Yes, you can substitute the butter and half-n-half with vegan alternatives. Use coconut or almond milk for a great dairy-free option.
