Caramelized Pecan Sweet Potato Casserole is the ultimate cozy side dish you'll want on your table for any holiday feast or cozy family dinner. With a silky sweet potato base and a crunchy pecan topping, it’s a crowd-pleaser that's both simple and indulgent.
Sweet potatoes form the creamy base of this casserole, bringing natural sweetness and a rich texture. Unsalted butter provides a luscious, rich flavor that enhances the sweet potatoes. The brown sugar and maple syrup add a deep, caramel-like sweetness that pairs beautifully with the pecans. A touch of vanilla extract and the warm spices of cinnamon and nutmeg give the dish its holiday essence. The milk helps achieve a smooth, creamy consistency. Finally, the pecans, combined with flour and additional brown sugar, create a crunchy topping that's simply irresistible.
This casserole pairs wonderfully with roast turkey or ham, making it an ideal side for Thanksgiving or Christmas dinners. For a complete meal, serve it alongside a fresh green salad with a tangy vinaigrette to balance the sweetness. And if you’re feeling indulgent, a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top turns it into a dessert-like experience!
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven warms up, peel and cube about 4 pounds of sweet potatoes. Place them in a large pot, cover with water, and bring to a boil. You’ll want to cook them until they're tender—this usually takes around 15 minutes. Once done, drain the water and transfer the potatoes to a large bowl. Mash them until smooth.
Now, let’s build the flavor. Pour in the melted unsalted butter, and mix it with the mashed sweet potatoes. Add in half a cup of brown sugar, a quarter cup of maple syrup, a teaspoon of vanilla extract, half a teaspoon of ground cinnamon, a quarter teaspoon of ground nutmeg, and a quarter cup of milk. Stir everything together until you have a creamy, well-blended mixture.
Spread this sweet potato mixture evenly into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish. Set it aside while you prepare the topping. In a separate bowl, combine half a cup of chopped pecans with a quarter cup of flour, another quarter cup of brown sugar, and a quarter teaspoon of salt. Mix these ingredients well, then sprinkle the pecan mixture evenly over the sweet potatoes in the baking dish.
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven, and let it bake for about 30 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the topping is golden brown and delightfully crunchy. Once ready, let it cool slightly before serving. Your kitchen will smell amazing, and your taste buds will thank you!