Classic Sweet Potato Casserole is a heartwarming dish that bridges the gap between side and dessert, making it a must-have for festive gatherings. This recipe combines creamy sweet potatoes with a crunchy pecan topping, perfect for any holiday table.
The star here is the sweet potatoes, offering natural sweetness and a creamy texture when mashed. The granulated sugar enhances their natural flavor without overpowering. Milk adds creaminess, while unsalted butter ensures richness in both the sweet potato base and the topping. Eggs help bind everything together, creating a cohesive casserole. A hint of vanilla extract rounds out the flavors with a subtle warmth, and a touch of salt balances the sweetness. The topping, made with all-purpose flour, brown sugar, more butter, and chopped pecans, creates a delightful crunchy layer that perfectly complements the smooth sweet potatoes.
This casserole pairs beautifully with roasted turkey or ham, making it ideal for Thanksgiving or Christmas dinners. For a complete meal, serve alongside a crisp green salad or buttery dinner rolls.
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish. This ensures easy cleanup later and prevents sticking.
Peel and cube the sweet potatoes, then place them in a large pot. Cover them with water and bring to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium and let them simmer for about 15 minutes until they're tender. You can test this by poking a cube with a fork; it should slide in easily.
Drain the sweet potatoes and give them a few minutes to cool slightly. This makes them easier to handle and mash. In a large bowl, mash the cooled sweet potatoes until smooth using a potato masher or fork.
Mix in the granulated sugar, milk, melted butter, eggs, vanilla extract, and salt. Stir until everything is well combined and smooth. Pour this mixture into your prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
In a separate bowl, combine flour, brown sugar, softened butter, and chopped pecans. Use your fingers or a fork to mix until it all becomes crumbly. Sprinkle this evenly over the sweet potato mixture in the baking dish.
Bake for about 30 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and crispy. Once done, remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving. This allows the flavors to meld and makes it easier to serve.
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