Sweet Potato Casserole With Pecans: Irresistible Holiday Comfort

Sweet Potato Casserole With Pecans holds a special place in my heart. Growing up, it was a staple at every family gathering. The aroma of sweet potatoes roasting in the oven would fill our home, promising warmth and comfort. These memories are what inspired me to share my own version of this delightful dish.

My journey with sweet potatoes began in my grandmother’s kitchen. She taught me how to transform humble ingredients into something extraordinary. The magic of sweet potato casserole lies in its simplicity—bringing together flavors that highlight the natural sweetness of the potatoes complemented by the crunch of pecans.

At GrandMmaDelights, I strive to recreate that same sense of nostalgia and joy through my recipes. Sweet Potato Casserole With Pecans is not just a dish; it’s a celebration of comfort and tradition. With each bite, I hope to evoke the warmth and connection that come from sharing a meal with loved ones.

Let’s dive into the world of sweet potatoes, exploring the vibrant flavors and comforting classics that make this dish a timeless favorite. Whether it’s a family gathering or a quiet dinner at home, Sweet Potato Casserole With Pecans is sure to bring smiles and warmth to your table.

Sweet Potato Casserole With Pecans

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• Author: Olivia
• Total Time: 1 hour 35 minutes
• Yield: 8 servings 1x

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Description

Indulge in the perfect side dish with our Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecans recipe. Learn how to create a sweet and crunchy dish that’s sure to impress!

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 3 pounds sweet potatoes (about 4 medium) (1.4 kg)
• 1/2 stick (4 tablespoons) unsalted butter, melted (60 g)
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil (120 ml)
• 1/4 cup maple syrup (60 ml)
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (2.5 ml)
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (0.5 g)
• 1/2 teaspoon fine salt (3 g)
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened (42 g)
• 1/4 cup packed coconut sugar or dark brown sugar (55 g)
• 3/4 cup pecan halves or pieces, finely chopped (90 g)
• 2 teaspoons finely snipped fresh rosemary leaves (optional) (10 ml)
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (1.5 g)
• Pinch of fine salt

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F. Cover a large, rimmed baking tray with parchment paper to catch any drips from the sweet potatoes. Butter or spray a 9-inch square baking dish (or any other 2-quart dish) to prevent sticking. Ensure the butter is left out to soften.
2. To prepare the filling: Pierce each sweet potato about five times with a fork to allow steam to escape. Place the whole sweet potatoes on the prepared baking tray and bake them until they are soft enough to squeeze gently with oven mitts. This should take between 45 minutes and 1 hour 15 minutes, depending on their size. Allow them to cool slightly.
3. Lower the oven temperature to 350°F. Once the sweet potatoes are cool enough to handle safely, cut them in half. Scoop out the insides with a large spoon into a mixing bowl, discarding the skins.
4. Mix the melted butter, vegetable oil, maple syrup, vanilla extract, nutmeg, and salt into the bowl. Use a hand mixer to blend the ingredients until they become smooth and creamy (alternatively, use a potato masher or mix by hand). Spread this mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish.
5. To make the topping: In a medium-sized bowl, combine the softened butter (if it’s not soft enough to stir, microwave it in short intervals), coconut sugar or dark brown sugar, pecans, optional rosemary, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. Stir until everything is well mixed. Distribute small spoonfuls of this mixture evenly over the sweet potato filling.
6. Bake for about 30 minutes until the pecans are golden and aromatic, and the filling is bubbly around the edges and heated through. Serve. Store any leftovers covered in the refrigerator for 4 to 5 days.

Notes

• For a healthier twist, try using olive oil instead of vegetable oil for a different flavor profile.
• Adjust the amount of maple syrup to suit your desired level of sweetness.
• Include rosemary in the topping for a unique and savory touch to the dish.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
• Category: Side Dish
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Calories: 380
• Fat: 26g
• Protein: 2g

Keywords: sweet potato casserole, pecan topping, maple syrup, creamy filling, baked sweet potatoes, easy recipe

Sweet Potato Casserole: A Classic Comfort

Fundamentals

The foundation of any delicious Sweet Potato Casserole With Pecans starts with selecting the right sweet potatoes. Opt for those that are firm, smooth, and vibrant in color. These qualities ensure a naturally sweet and creamy base for your casserole.

Sweet potatoes are rich in nutrients like beta-carotene, making them a healthy choice. Combining them with pecans introduces a delightful texture and adds a nutty flavor to the dish. The pecans also provide a satisfying crunch that contrasts beautifully with the smoothness of the sweet potatoes.

Preparation/setup

Start by preheating your oven to 425°F. This temperature ensures the sweet potatoes roast to perfection, developing a deep, caramelized flavor. Line a baking tray with parchment paper to catch any drips and make cleanup a breeze.

Prepare a 9-inch square baking dish by buttering or spraying it to prevent sticking. This step is crucial for easy serving and cleaning later. Make sure to leave the butter out to soften, as it will be used in both the filling and topping.

For more innovative ways to enjoy sweet potatoes, consider checking out our air fryer baked sweet potatoes or try a savory twist with roasted sweet potato rounds with honey and feta.

Crafting the Perfect Casserole

Technique

Begin by piercing each sweet potato five times with a fork. This allows steam to escape, preventing them from bursting during baking. Place them on the prepared tray and bake until they are soft and easy to handle, which can take up to 75 minutes.

Once baked, reduce the oven temperature to 350°F. After cooling slightly, cut the sweet potatoes in half and scoop out the flesh into a mixing bowl. Discard the skins to keep the texture smooth and creamy.

Tips/tricks

For a perfectly creamy filling, use a hand mixer to blend the sweet potato flesh with melted butter, vegetable oil, maple syrup, vanilla extract, nutmeg, and salt. This mixture should be smooth and well combined, ready to spread evenly in your baking dish.

To elevate the flavor profile, consider adding finely snipped fresh rosemary to the pecan topping. This optional ingredient adds a hint of herbal freshness that pairs beautifully with the sweet and nutty elements.

For more creative sweet potato ideas, explore our smoky maple BBQ pulled jackfruit baked on sweet potatoes, perfect for those seeking a unique twist.

Achieving Culinary Perfection

Perfecting results

To create a memorable Sweet Potato Casserole With Pecans, focus on achieving the perfect balance of flavors and textures. The combination of sweet potatoes and maple syrup provides a natural sweetness, while the pecans add a delightful crunch.

Ensure your pecan topping is evenly distributed over the sweet potato filling. This ensures every bite is a harmonious blend of creamy and crunchy, sweet and nutty. Bake until the pecans are golden and aromatic, signaling that your casserole is ready.

Troubleshooting/variations

If you find your casserole too sweet, consider reducing the amount of maple syrup or opting for dark brown sugar instead of coconut sugar. For those who prefer a spicier kick, a pinch of cayenne pepper can add an unexpected twist.

For more variations, check out sweet potato rounds with blue cheese, cranberry, and pecans for a unique flavor combination.

Serving and Storing Your Casserole

Serving/presentation

Present your Sweet Potato Casserole With Pecans as the centerpiece of your meal. The vibrant orange hue of the sweet potatoes contrasted with the golden pecans creates a visually appealing dish that’s sure to impress.

To enhance the presentation, garnish with a sprig of fresh rosemary or a sprinkle of additional finely chopped pecans. This not only adds visual interest but also enhances the flavors and aromas of the casserole.

Pairings/storage

Pair this casserole with a variety of main courses for a complete meal. It complements dishes like our easy hamburger potato casserole recipe or the hearty kielbasa sausage cheesy potato casserole. Both options create a satisfying and flavorful dining experience.

Store any leftovers in the refrigerator for 4 to 5 days. Cover the dish with plastic wrap or transfer portions to an airtight container to maintain freshness. For reheating, use an oven to preserve the texture and flavor.

Conclusion

The Sweet Potato Casserole With Pecans is a testament to the beauty of simple ingredients coming together to create something extraordinary. Its combination of sweet, creamy, and crunchy elements makes it a beloved classic.

This dish not only serves as a comforting side but also as a centerpiece that brings people together. With its rich flavors and inviting aroma, it’s no wonder this casserole remains a staple at gatherings and celebrations.

Whether you’re revisiting cherished memories or creating new ones, this casserole captures the essence of home cooking. Its versatility and timeless appeal make it a must-have recipe in your culinary repertoire.

FAQs – Sweet Potato Casserole With Pecans