Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe

If you’re looking for a dish that brings warmth and comfort to any table, this Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe is just the thing! It’s creamy and sweet with a delightful crunch from the pecan topping, making it a favorite at family gatherings and celebrations. This casserole is also perfect for busy weeknights when you want something hearty and satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen.

What I love most about this recipe is how it combines wholesome ingredients with rich flavors. The combination of sweet potatoes and vegan marshmallows creates a nostalgic feeling that everyone will enjoy. Whether it’s Thanksgiving or just a regular Tuesday, this casserole will brighten up your meal!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to prepare: With only a few simple steps, you can whip up this dish in no time!
• Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the sweet flavors and crunchy topping.
• Make-ahead convenience: Prepare it ahead of time and pop it in the oven when you’re ready to serve.
• Deliciously comforting: Perfect for chilly nights or gatherings, this casserole is pure comfort food.
• Wholesome ingredients: Packed with nutritious sweet potatoes, it’s as good for you as it is tasty!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the ingredients for this Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe is a breeze! You’ll find that they are simple and wholesome—perfect for creating a dish everyone will love.

For the Casserole

• 5 pounds sweet potatoes (peeled and cut into 2-inch pieces)
• 1 cup water
• 2 eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ½ cup butter (melted)
• 1 cup brown sugar
• 2-3 teaspoons salt (or to taste)
• ½ cup heavy cream (or milk)

For the Topping

• ½ cup brown sugar
• ½ cup flour
• ⅓ cup melted butter
• 1 cup chopped pecans
• 3-4 cups mini vegan marshmallows

Variations

This Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe is versatile, allowing you to customize it to suit your taste! Here are some fun ideas to make it your own:

• Add spices: Sprinkle in cinnamon or nutmeg for extra warmth and flavor.
• Mix in fruits: Try adding chopped apples or cranberries for a fruity twist.
• Nut alternatives: Swap pecans for walnuts or almonds if you prefer something different.
• Dairy-free option: Use coconut cream instead of heavy cream for a dairy-free version.

How to Make Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Sweet Potatoes

Start by boiling your sweet potatoes until they are tender. Alternatively, you can cook them in a slow cooker or Instant Pot. This step is crucial because tender sweet potatoes will mash easily, creating that creamy texture we all love.

Step 2: Mash Them Up!

Once your sweet potatoes are cooked, preheat your oven to 375°F. Then, mash those golden beauties until smooth. Mixing in eggs, vanilla extract, melted butter, brown sugar, salt, and milk (or heavy cream) adds richness. I like leaving some texture in my mash—it gives the casserole character!

Step 3: Assemble the Casserole

Spread your potato mixture evenly into a greased 9×13 baking dish. This ensures every bite gets that delicious flavor. Don’t worry if it’s not perfectly smooth; rustic is charming!

Step 4: Create the Topping

In a separate bowl, combine brown sugar, flour, melted butter, and chopped pecans. Mixing by hand keeps things simple and allows you to control the texture. Sprinkle this delightful mixture over your sweet potato layer—it’s okay if some spots show through!

Step 5: Bake Away!

Pop your casserole into the oven uncovered for about 20-25 minutes until those pecans become caramelized and fragrant. This step really enhances the flavor and gives your dish that perfect crunch.

Step 6: Add Vegan Marshmallows

Finally, sprinkle mini vegan marshmallows over the top and return it to the oven for another 5-7 minutes until they puff up and turn golden brown. Oh my goodness—this is where magic happens! Your Sweet Potato Casserole is now ready to be served.

Serve hot and enjoy every comforting bite!

Pro Tips for Making Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe

Creating the perfect sweet potato casserole is easier than you think! Here are some pro tips to ensure your dish shines at the dinner table.

• Use Fresh Sweet Potatoes: Fresh sweet potatoes have a natural sweetness and creamy texture that really elevate the dish. Look for firm, unblemished ones for the best results.

• Adjust the Sweetness: Depending on your taste preferences, feel free to tweak the amount of brown sugar in the recipe. Start with less and add more if needed; this ensures it’s just right for you and your guests.

• Experiment with Toppings: While pecans are classic, try adding different nuts or even coconut flakes for a unique twist! This adds variety and can cater to different tastes.

• Make Ahead of Time: Prepare your casserole a day in advance and store it in the fridge. This not only saves time but allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

• Use a Slow Cooker for Convenience: If you’re short on oven space during meal prep, use a slow cooker to make your sweet potatoes. Just set it and forget it until they’re ready!

How to Serve Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe

Serving your sweet potato casserole beautifully makes it even more inviting! Here are some fun ideas to present this delicious dish.

Garnishes

• Chopped Fresh Herbs: Adding a sprinkle of chopped parsley or chives on top can introduce a fresh flavor that contrasts nicely with the sweetness.
• Cinnamon Sprinkle: A light dusting of cinnamon over the marshmallows right before serving gives an aromatic touch that enhances the overall experience.

Side Dishes

• Green Bean Almondine: Sautéed green beans with crispy almonds offer a delightful crunch that pairs well with the soft texture of the casserole.

• Quinoa Salad: A refreshing quinoa salad with cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and lemon dressing provides a bright counterpoint to the rich casserole.

• Roasted Brussels Sprouts: These crispy sprouts add depth and flavor, making them an excellent balance to the sweetness of your casserole.

With these serving suggestions and pro tips, your sweet potato casserole will surely impress everyone at your gathering! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe is perfect for meal prep, making it an excellent choice for busy weeknights or holiday gatherings. You can prepare it in advance and store it without losing the delicious flavors and textures.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the casserole to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer any leftovers to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Freezing

• Let the casserole cool completely before freezing.
• Cover securely with plastic wrap, then aluminum foil, or transfer to a freezer-safe container.
• Freeze for up to 3 months. For best results, label with the date.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Cover with foil and reheat for about 20–30 minutes until warmed through. Remove the foil for the last few minutes to crisp up the topping.

FAQs

If you have any questions about this delightful Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe, you’re not alone! Here are some common inquiries that I often receive.

Can I make this Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe vegan?

Absolutely! You can replace eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water equals one egg), and use plant-based butter and cream alternatives.

How do I know when my Sweet Potato Casserole is done baking?

Your casserole is done when the pecans are caramelized, and the marshmallows are puffy and lightly browned. A light golden color on top indicates it’s perfectly baked!

Can I use different types of nuts in this recipe?

Yes! While pecans add a lovely crunch, feel free to substitute with walnuts or almonds as per your preference.

What can I serve with this Sweet Potato Casserole?

This casserole pairs wonderfully with roasted vegetables or protein options like grilled chicken or tofu, making it a versatile side dish for any meal.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in preparing this Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe as much as I do. The blend of creamy sweet potatoes topped with crunchy pecans and fluffy vegan marshmallows creates a heartwarming dish that brings smiles around the table. Enjoy making this comforting recipe, share it with loved ones, and savor each delightful bite!