Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecan Streusel Topping
There’s something irresistibly warm and inviting about a classic Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecan Streusel Topping. This dish captures the essence of cozy family gatherings and holiday celebrations with every spoonful.
Imagine creamy, velvety mashed sweet potatoes, perfectly sweetened and blended with a hint of vanilla, topped with a crunchy, golden-brown pecan streusel that adds the perfect balance of texture. Each bite is an emotional journey, invoking memories of simpler times and loved ones gathered around the table.
Why is this casserole worth making? Because it’s not only fast and incredibly easy to whip up, but it also strikes the perfect balance between healthy and indulgent, making it a kid-friendly favorite.
What’s Your Favorite Comfort Food Memory?
When you think of comfort foods that make your heart sing and bring a smile to your face, what comes to mind? Is it a rich, buttery pie, or perhaps a delectable cake?
For many, sweet potato casserole evokes memories of holidays, family dinners, and that unmistakable smell wafting through the kitchen. Now imagine gathering your loved ones to enjoy this glorious dish, where each spoonful of creamy sweetness with pecans showered on top brings a sense of nostalgia.
Can you resist the thought of diving into a bowl of sweet potato goodness?
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
The Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecan Streusel Topping is not just any dish; it’s an experience waiting to happen. Here’s why you’ll adore making this recipe:
- Easy Prep: With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you can whip up this comforting casserole in no time.
- Healthy Twist: Sweet potatoes are packed with nutrients, making this dish a wholesome choice for your family.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Whether it’s Thanksgiving dinner or a casual weekend gathering, everyone will be asking for seconds.
- Minimal Ingredients: You likely have most of the ingredients already at home, so you won’t break the bank.
Ingredients
For this delightful Sweet Potato Casserole, you will need:
3 cups cooked and mashed sweet potatoes (about 2 pounds): These vibrant orange gems are the stars of the show, offering a natural sweetness that’s simply irresistible.
1 cup granulated sugar: This sweet addition enhances the natural flavors and ensures your casserole has that comforting sweetness everyone craves.
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted: Butter brings a rich, velvety goodness that makes the sweet potato mixture creamy and luscious.
2 large eggs, well beaten: Eggs act as a binding agent, creating a smooth texture that helps meld everything together beautifully.
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract: A splash of vanilla introduces warmth and depth, elevating this casserole to another level.
1/2 teaspoon salt: Salt balances the sweetness and enhances all the flavors at play.
1 cup light brown sugar, packed: Brown sugar adds a hint of molasses flavor, further enriching the sweet potato blend.
1/3 cup all-purpose flour: Flour binds the topping together for that delightful streusel texture.
1 cup chopped pecans: Crunchy pecans provide the perfect contrast to the creaminess of the sweet potatoes, making each bite exciting.
1/3 cup unsalted butter, melted: This is for the topping, ensuring it’s decadently buttery and crumbly.
Timing
When it comes to timing, the Sweet Potato Casserole strikes a balance between fast indulgence and slow luxury. From prep to table, you can whip this up in about an hour.
Imagine a cozy kitchen filled with the scent of sweet potatoes baking and nutty pecans toasting; it’s a sensory delight that encourages you to gather around the table sooner rather than later.
Step-by-Step
Begin by cooking the sweet potatoes until they are tender. You can choose to boil, bake, or microwave them. Once cooked, peel and mash the sweet potatoes in a large bowl until smooth.
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C), letting the warmth build as you prepare the rest of your ingredients.
To the mashed sweet potatoes, add granulated sugar, melted butter, beaten eggs, vanilla extract, and salt. Blend until smooth, envisioning the delightful creamy texture coming to life.
Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish and pour the sweet potato mixture into it, spreading it evenly. Feel the satisfaction of creating a beautiful base for this casserole.
In another bowl, combine brown sugar, flour, chopped pecans, and melted butter for the topping, mixing until crumbly.
Sprinkle the pecan streusel topping generously over the sweet potato mixture, creating a golden crown that’s impossible to resist.
Bake for 30 minutes or until the topping is golden brown and the casserole is heated through, filling your kitchen with comforting aromas.
Allow to cool briefly before serving warm, providing the perfect cozy and gooey texture to each serving.
Nutritional Information
Each serving of this Sweet Potato Casserole packs approximately 350 calories. The sweetness and richness are balanced, making it an indulgent choice you’ll want to revisit often—especially when you think about that delicious pecan topping!
Occasional Indulgence Note
While this dish leans towards indulgent, remember that treats like these are meant to be savored. Allow yourself the pleasure of enjoying a scoop (or two) of this delicious casserole at holiday celebrations or on cool evenings with family.
Healthier Alternatives
For those seeking lighter options, consider these healthier swaps:
Low-Sugar: Use a sugar substitute suitable for baking, allowing you to enjoy the sweetness without the added calories.
Dairy-Free: Substitute unsweetened almond or coconut milk in place of butter to create a dairy-free version that doesn’t skimp on flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Sweet Potato Casserole is a versatile dish. Serve it warm alongside a scoop of vanilla or caramel ice cream for an indulgent dessert experience. It’s also perfect for holiday feasts, adding a sweet touch to your table that everyone will look forward to.
Common Mistakes
To ensure perfect results, avoid these common pitfalls:
Overbaking: Keep an eye on the casserole; you want it warm and gooey, not dry.
Texture Issues: Ensure sweet potatoes are mashed well; a few lumps can affect the final dish.
Messy Preparation: Measure ingredients carefully and follow the steps to keep the kitchen tidy.
Storing Tips
If you have leftovers (though they might not last long!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To freeze, portion into freezer-safe containers and defrost overnight in the fridge before reheating. Simply rewarm in the oven or microwave, and you’re ready to enjoy that cozy taste again.
Temptation to Bake It ASAP
The aroma wafting through your kitchen as this Sweet Potato Casserole bakes is enough to tempt anyone. Imagine gathering around the table to enjoy warm, creamy goodness topped with crunchy pecans. Trust us, this is a dish you’ll want to make over and over again!
FAQs
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the sweet potato mixture the night before and leave it in the fridge. Just add the topping and bake when ready.What can I serve with sweet potato casserole?
This delightful casserole pairs well with roasted meats, a fresh salad, or even as a dessert with a scoop of ice cream.How do I know when it’s baked perfectly?
Look for a golden-brown topping and ensure the casserole is heated through.Can I use canned sweet potatoes?
Yes, canned sweet potatoes can be used in a pinch, but be sure to drain and rinse them to avoid excess moisture.Is this casserole gluten-free?
To make it gluten-free, substitute the all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour.
Incorporating these crave-worthy elements will ensure your Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecan Streusel Topping is a memorable addition to any meal. Happy baking!
Print
Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecan Streusel Topping
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A comforting sweet potato casserole topped with crunchy pecan streusel, perfect for family gatherings and holiday celebrations.
Ingredients
- 3 cups cooked and mashed sweet potatoes (about 2 pounds)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 large eggs, well beaten
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup light brown sugar, packed
- 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup chopped pecans
- 1/3 cup unsalted butter, melted (for topping)
Instructions
- Cook the sweet potatoes until tender, then peel and mash until smooth.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Add granulated sugar, melted butter, beaten eggs, vanilla extract, and salt to the mashed sweet potatoes and blend until smooth.
- Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish and pour the sweet potato mixture into it, spreading evenly.
- In another bowl, combine brown sugar, flour, chopped pecans, and melted butter for the topping, mixing until crumbly.
- Sprinkle the pecan streusel topping over the sweet potato mixture.
- Bake for 30 minutes or until the topping is golden brown and casserole is heated through.
- Allow to cool briefly before serving warm.
Notes
Optional serving suggestion: Serve warm with vanilla or caramel ice cream for added indulgence.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 30g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
