Sweet potato casserole is a quintessential dish that effortlessly marries the heartiness of sweet potatoes with the indulgence of sweet, nutty toppings. Whether you're preparing it for festive gatherings or a hearty family dinner, this recipe guarantees a standout addition to your table. Below, we provide a complete, step-by-step guide to crafting the best sweet potato casserole.
Ingredients for the Sweet Potato Casserole
Before starting, ensure you have the freshest and finest ingredients for optimal flavour. Here's what you'll need:
For the Sweet Potato Base:
- 5 medium sweet potatoes (around 900g), peeled and cubed
- 100g of unsalted butter, melted
- 100ml of whole milk (or cream for extra richness)
- 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
- 100g of granulated sugar or brown sugar (adjust for sweetness preference)
- 1 tsp of pure vanilla extract
- 1/2 tsp of ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp of ground nutmeg
- A pinch of salt
For the Pecan Streusel Topping:
- 120g of chopped pecans
- 75g of all-purpose flour
- 100g of brown sugar
- 1/2 tsp of ground cinnamon
- 75g of unsalted butter, softened
Optional Marshmallow Layer:
- 150g of mini marshmallows
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preparing the Sweet Potatoes
- Peel and Cube: Begin by peeling the sweet potatoes and cutting them into evenly sized cubes. This ensures even cooking.
- Boil Until Tender: Place the cubes in a large pot of boiling water and cook for about 15–20 minutes until fork-tender. Drain thoroughly to remove excess moisture.
- Mash to Perfection: Using a potato masher or hand mixer, mash the sweet potatoes until smooth. Avoid leaving lumps for the best texture.
2. Making the Sweet Potato Base
- Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed sweet potatoes with melted butter, milk, eggs, sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and a pinch of salt.
- Blend Thoroughly: Mix until the ingredients are well incorporated and the mixture is creamy.
- Taste Test: Adjust sweetness or spices to your liking at this stage.
3. Preparing the Pecan Streusel Topping
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, combine flour, brown sugar, and ground cinnamon.
- Add Butter: Add the softened butter and use a fork or your hands to combine until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Stir in Pecans: Finally, mix in the chopped pecans for added crunch and flavour.
4. Assembling the Casserole
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
- Layer the Base: Spread the sweet potato mixture evenly into a greased 9x13-inch baking dish. Smooth the surface with a spatula.
- Add the Streusel: Sprinkle the pecan streusel topping evenly over the sweet potato layer.
5. Baking the Casserole
- Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes or until the topping is golden brown and crispy.
- Optional Marshmallow Layer: If adding marshmallows, remove the casserole after 20 minutes, sprinkle the marshmallows evenly, and bake for an additional 5–10 minutes until golden and gooey.
6. Serving the Sweet Potato Casserole
Allow the casserole to cool slightly before serving. It pairs beautifully with roast meats, holiday feasts, or as a standalone comfort dish. The contrasting textures of creamy sweet potatoes and the crunchy, sweet pecan topping make it utterly irresistible.
Tips for the Perfect Sweet Potato Casserole
- Customise Sweetness: Adjust sugar levels in the base or topping to match your taste preferences.
- Gluten-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour with almond flour for a gluten-free version.
- Make Ahead: Prepare the casserole a day ahead. Simply assemble it without baking, cover tightly, and refrigerate. Bake it fresh on the day.
- Storage and Reheating: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a 180°C oven until warmed through.
Indulge in this timeless dish that is sure to become a favourite in your recipe collection. Its vibrant flavours, balanced sweetness, and delightful texture will leave everyone asking for seconds.
