Southern-Style Sweet Potato Casserole

Description:

This Southern classic is a holiday favorite, combining creamy, spiced mashed sweet potatoes with a crunchy, buttery pecan topping. It’s a perfect blend of sweetness and texture, making it a standout dish on any Thanksgiving or Christmas table.

Ingredients:

For the Sweet Potato Base:

• Sweet potatoes: 4 large (about 3 lbs, peeled and cubed)
• Butter: ½ cup (melted)
• Brown sugar: ½ cup (packed)
• Milk or heavy cream: ½ cup
• Eggs: 2 (lightly beaten)
• Vanilla extract: 1 teaspoon
• Ground cinnamon: 1 teaspoon
• Nutmeg: ¼ teaspoon
• Salt: ¼ teaspoon

For the Pecan Topping:

• Chopped pecans: 1 cup
• Brown sugar: ½ cup (packed)
• All-purpose flour: ⅓ cup
• Butter: ¼ cup (melted)

Optional Ingredients:

• Mini marshmallows: 1 cup (for a gooey topping variation)
• Maple syrup: 1 tablespoon (for added sweetness)
• Ground ginger: ¼ teaspoon (for extra spice)

Tips for Success:

1. Boil sweet potatoes until very tender: This ensures a smooth and creamy mash.
2. Adjust sweetness to taste: Southern recipes tend to be rich, but you can reduce the sugar if desired.
3. Use fresh pecans: Toast them lightly beforehand for added crunch and flavor.

Steps to Make It:

1. Prepare the Sweet Potatoes:

1. Boil or steam the sweet potato cubes in a large pot of water until fork-tender (about 15-20 minutes). Drain well.
2. Mash the sweet potatoes in a large bowl until smooth.

2. Mix the Sweet Potato Base:

1. Stir in melted butter, brown sugar, milk, eggs, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Mix until well combined and creamy.
2. Spread the sweet potato mixture evenly into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.

3. Make the Pecan Topping:

1. In a small bowl, combine chopped pecans, brown sugar, flour, and melted butter. Mix until crumbly.
2. Sprinkle the pecan mixture evenly over the sweet potato base.

4. Bake the Casserole:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Bake the casserole uncovered for 25-30 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and crispy.

Optional Marshmallow Topping Variation:

1. During the last 5-10 minutes of baking, add mini marshmallows on top and return to the oven until they are melted and lightly toasted.

Recommendations:

• Serving suggestions: Serve warm alongside roasted turkey, ham, or other holiday dishes.
• Make ahead: Prepare the casserole up to the baking step and refrigerate overnight. Bake just before serving.
• Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.

Nutrition (Per Serving, Approx. 8 servings):

• Calories: ~400
• Protein: 4g
• Fat: 20g
• Carbohydrates: 54g
• Fiber: 6g
• Sugar: 28g
• Sodium: 150mg

Rich, comforting, and full of Southern charm, this Sweet Potato Casserole will have everyone coming back for seconds. It’s a true holiday tradition! ✨