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Sweet Potato Casserole

Sweet Potato Casserole

Sweet Potato Casserole is a comforting and festive holiday side dish featuring creamy mashed sweet potatoes topped with crunchy toasted nuts and optional marshmallows. It balances sweet and savory flavors with smooth, rich textures and a delightful crunchy topping, making it perfect for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any special occasion.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 3 to 4 large sweet potatoes (about 3 pounds), peeled and chopped
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/4 to 1/2 cup milk or cream
  • 2 large eggs, beaten

Topping

  • 1 cup pecans or walnuts, toasted and chopped
  • 1 to 1 1/2 cups mini marshmallows (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Sweet Potatoes: Peel and chop the sweet potatoes into uniform pieces. Boil or steam them until tender, about 15 to 20 minutes, ensuring a smooth and creamy texture.
  2. Mash and Mix: Drain the cooked sweet potatoes and mash until smooth. Add softened butter, brown sugar, vanilla extract, milk or cream, and beaten eggs. Mix thoroughly to create a creamy, sweet base.
  3. Transfer to Baking Dish: Butter a casserole dish and spread the mashed sweet potato mixture evenly, smoothing the top for an even surface.
  4. Add the Topping: Sprinkle toasted, chopped pecans or walnuts over the sweet potatoes. Optionally, spread mini marshmallows evenly on top of the nuts or directly on the casserole.
  5. Bake Until Golden: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the casserole for 25 to 30 minutes until the topping is golden brown, bubbly, and fragrant. Watch carefully to avoid burning marshmallows if used.

Notes

  • Use fresh, firm sweet potatoes for the best flavor and texture.
  • Do not overmix the mashed sweet potatoes to keep them light and fluffy.
  • Toast nuts before adding to enhance flavor and crunch.
  • Adjust sweetness by modifying the amount of brown sugar or substituting some with maple syrup.
  • If marshmallows brown too quickly, tent the casserole with foil to keep them soft.

Nutrition

Keywords: sweet potato casserole, holiday side dish, Thanksgiving recipe, Christmas, gluten free, comfort food, mashed sweet potatoes, nut topping