Thanksgiving Sweet Potato Casserole is the kind of dish that encapsulates the essence of the holiday season. Picture a creamy, velvety layer of sweet potatoes topped with a crunchy, buttery pecan streusel that practically begs to be devoured. delicious pumpkin cupcakes The aroma wafts through your home, wrapping you in warmth and making you forget all about that awkward family conversation you just had. For more inspiration, check out this Delicious baked artichokes recipe recipe.
This casserole speaks volumes, bringing together family members around the table as they eagerly dig into its delightful flavors. It’s not just food; it’s a cherished memory waiting to happen. savory chicken enchilada casserole Whether it’s your first Thanksgiving or you’re a seasoned pro, this dish promises to steal the spotlight and maybe even lead to some friendly debates about who makes it best.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Thanksgiving Sweet Potato Casserole is incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for novice cooks and seasoned chefs alike
- Its rich, sweet flavor balances perfectly with the crunchy topping, satisfying all taste buds at your gathering
- Visually stunning with vibrant orange hues, it adds a festive touch to any table setting
- Versatile enough to enjoy throughout fall and winter, this casserole can be a comforting side or even a dessert!
My cousin once declared my Thanksgiving Sweet Potato Casserole “the best thing since sliced bread,” which made me feel like a culinary rock star for at least five minutes. For more inspiration, check out this Crock pot bourbon chicken recipe.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Sweet Potatoes: Aim for firm and smooth potatoes; they should be vibrant orange for optimal sweetness and flavor.
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Brown Sugar: Use light brown sugar for a gentle caramel flavor that beautifully complements the sweet potatoes.
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Butter: Opt for unsalted butter so you can control the saltiness of your casserole.
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Cinnamon: A dash of cinnamon elevates the flavors; don’t skip it if you want that warm, cozy taste.
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Pecans: Chopped pecans add crunch; just make sure they’re fresh for maximum flavor.
For the Topping:
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Marshmallows: Mini marshmallows are classic; they toast up nicely and bring nostalgia with each bite. stuffed mini pumpkins.
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Vanilla Extract: A splash of vanilla enhances all the flavors in this casserole and adds depth.
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Eggs: Eggs help bind everything together while adding richness to your casserole.
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Milk: Whole milk works best here for creaminess; skim milk just won’t cut it!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make It Together
Prepare the Sweet Potatoes: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Peel and chop about four large sweet potatoes into chunks for easy boiling.
Boil Until Tender: Place sweet potato chunks into boiling water for about 15 minutes until fork-tender. Drain them carefully while avoiding any splashes on your favorite shirt.
Mash with Love: In a large mixing bowl, mash those sweet potatoes until smooth. Add in brown sugar, melted butter, vanilla extract, eggs, milk, and cinnamon. Mix until everything is well combined and dreamy.
Create the Topping: In another bowl, combine chopped pecans with melted butter and a sprinkle of brown sugar. This crunchy topping will make every bite feel like dessert!
Bake to Perfection: Pour the sweet potato mixture into a greased baking dish. Spread pecan topping evenly over it. perfect roast turkey pairing Bake in your preheated oven for 30-35 minutes until heated through and golden on top.
Add Marshmallows (Optional): If you’re feeling extra indulgent (and who isn’t?), top with mini marshmallows during the last 5 minutes of baking until they’re toasted and gooey.
And there you have it! Your Thanksgiving Sweet Potato Casserole is ready to impress everyone at dinner—just try not to take all the credit when someone asks how you made it! Enjoy every moment as you gather around with loved ones.
As they say: “Good food brings people together.” And this casserole? It’s basically glue at your Thanksgiving table!
You Must Know
- Thanksgiving Sweet Potato Casserole is not just a side dish; it’s the showstopper of the table!
- The creamy texture and sweet, buttery flavor will have everyone asking for seconds
- Plus, the crunchy topping adds that irresistible contrast to every bite
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by boiling your sweet potatoes until tender, then mash them smoothly. While they cool, mix together your toppings. Bake everything together to let those flavors meld beautifully.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap pecans for walnuts if you prefer. Add a pinch of nutmeg for warmth or even drizzle maple syrup on top for extra sweetness.
Storing & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through for best results.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Ensure your sweet potatoes are fully cooked before mashing to avoid lumps
- A splash of orange juice can brighten the flavor beautifully
- For extra crunch, broil the topping briefly before serving
The first time I made Thanksgiving Sweet Potato Casserole, my family couldn’t stop raving about it! It quickly became our holiday tradition, and now I can’t imagine Thanksgiving without it.
FAQ
Can I prepare Thanksgiving Sweet Potato Casserole in advance?
Yes, you can prepare it a day ahead and refrigerate before baking.
What’s the best way to reheat leftover casserole?
Reheat in an oven at 350°F until warmed through and crisp on top.
Can I use canned sweet potatoes instead?
Canned sweet potatoes work but may alter the texture and flavor slightly.
Thanksgiving Sweet Potato Casserole
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 8
Description
Thanksgiving Sweet Potato Casserole is a must-have dish for your holiday table, featuring creamy sweet potatoes topped with a crunchy pecan streusel and optional toasted marshmallows. This delightful casserole combines warmth and nostalgia, making it the ultimate comfort food that brings family together. Perfect for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs, this recipe not only satisfies taste buds but also creates cherished holiday memories.
Ingredients
- 4 large sweet potatoes (about 2 lbs)
- 1 cup light brown sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (melted)
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1 cup chopped pecans
- 1 cup mini marshmallows (optional)
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup whole milk
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Peel and chop sweet potatoes into chunks; boil for about 15 minutes until fork-tender. Drain.
- In a mixing bowl, mash sweet potatoes until smooth. Add brown sugar, melted butter, vanilla extract, eggs, milk, and cinnamon; mix well.
- In another bowl, combine chopped pecans with melted butter and a sprinkle of brown sugar for the topping.
- Pour sweet potato mixture into a greased baking dish, spread the pecan topping evenly over it. Bake for 30-35 minutes until heated through and golden.
- For extra indulgence, add mini marshmallows during the last 5 minutes of baking until toasted.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 265
- Sugar: 25g
- Sodium: 100mg
- Fat: 11g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
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