If you're looking to add a twist to your holiday table or simply want a side dish that sings with warmth and flavor, this Spiced Sweet Potato Casserole is your go-to. It marries the creamy sweetness of sweet potatoes with a crunchy, nutty topping, making it a must-try for any occasion.
Sweet potatoes are the star here, offering a naturally sweet and creamy base when mashed. The brown sugar adds a deeper, caramel-like sweetness. Unsalted butter gives richness and helps the flavors meld together. Cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves provide that classic holiday spice profile, while heavy cream makes the dish luscious and silky. A hint of vanilla extract adds warmth and depth. The pecans in the topping offer a crunchy contrast, with flour and oats binding it together. Lastly, maple syrup brings a touch of earthy sweetness to the mix.
This casserole pairs wonderfully with roast turkey or chicken, making it ideal for Thanksgiving or Christmas dinner. For a vegetarian option, consider serving it alongside a hearty bean stew or a fresh green salad to balance the richness.
First, crank up your oven to 375°F (190°C) and give your baking dish a light greasing. No one likes sticking! Start by peeling and cubing your sweet potatoes. Get them into a pot of salted water and let them boil away until they’re nice and tender — usually around 20 minutes should do the trick.
Once they’re soft, drain the water and move the potatoes into a big mixing bowl. Mash them up until smooth, then stir in your brown sugar, melted butter, and all those lovely spices — cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. Pour in the heavy cream and vanilla extract, mixing until everything’s well combined and silky.
Spread this sweet potato mix into your prepared dish. Now, for the topping: in a separate bowl, toss together the pecans, flour, oats, and maple syrup. Sprinkle this evenly over your sweet potato layer.
Pop the casserole into the oven and let it bake for 25-30 minutes. You’re looking for a golden, crispy topping that smells irresistible. Once done, let it cool for a few minutes before digging in.