Thanksgiving Sweet Potato Casserole is the dish that makes your kitchen smell like a cozy autumn day – warm, inviting, and oh-so-sweet. Imagine creamy sweet potatoes topped with a crunchy pecan streusel, just waiting to be devoured by your family. Thanksgiving casserole ideas This delightful casserole will not only make your taste buds dance but will also bring back fond memories of laughter-filled Thanksgivings past. classic Thanksgiving dessert. For more inspiration, check out this Cranberry Apple Sweet Potatoes recipe.
As you gather around the table, this Thanksgiving Sweet Potato Casserole becomes more than food; it touches hearts and creates lasting memories. It’s the perfect sidekick for turkey, stuffing, or whatever culinary masterpiece you’re serving. pumpkin shepherd’s pie Get ready for an explosion of flavors that will leave everyone asking for seconds (and maybe even thirds).
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Thanksgiving Sweet Potato Casserole is easy to prepare and shines with its rich flavor profile
- The vibrant orange hue and crunchy topping make it visually appealing for any holiday spread
- Enjoy its versatility as a side or dessert — it works beautifully either way!
Every year, my family argues over who gets the last spoonful of this casserole, and trust me, it gets intense!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Sweet Potatoes: Choose firm and smooth sweet potatoes for the best texture and sweetness in your casserole.
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Butter: Use unsalted butter to control the saltiness while adding richness to the dish.
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Brown Sugar: Light or dark brown sugar adds that delightful caramelized flavor we all crave in sweet potato dishes.
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Milk: Whole milk gives creaminess; feel free to use almond milk for a dairy-free option.
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Cinnamon: Just a pinch adds warmth and depth; you might even consider nutmeg for an extra kick!
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Pecans: Chopped pecans provide a satisfying crunch on top; toast them lightly for enhanced flavor.
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Marshmallows (Optional): Mini marshmallows can add sweetness and a fun gooey texture if you’re feeling adventurous.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Prepare Your Sweet Potatoes: Start by peeling and chopping 3-4 large sweet potatoes into chunks. Boil them in salted water until fork-tender, about 15-20 minutes.
Blend Until Smooth: Drain the sweet potatoes and return them to the pot. Add butter, brown sugar, milk, cinnamon, vanilla extract, and salt. Mash until silky smooth.
Create Your Topping: In a separate bowl, mix chopped pecans with flour, melted butter, and more brown sugar until crumbly. This topping provides that irresistible crunch!
Assemble Your Casserole: Spread the sweet potato mixture into a greased baking dish. Evenly sprinkle your pecan topping over the mashed sweet potatoes.
Bake to Perfection: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake uncovered for about 25-30 minutes until golden brown on top and warmed through.
Serve with Style!: Remove from oven and let cool slightly before serving. Watch as your family dives in eagerly — it’s truly a showstopper!
Now that you have all these steps laid out like breadcrumbs leading to culinary bliss, get ready to impress everyone at your Thanksgiving appetizers-to-wow-guests/”>appetizers for Thanksgiving.
You Must Know
- Thanksgiving sweet potato casserole is a delightful twist on traditional flavors, making your holiday table shine
- The mix of sweet and savory creates a comforting experience, while the crunchy topping adds texture
- Don’t forget to let it cool slightly before serving for perfect slices
Perfecting the Cooking Process
First, bake sweet potatoes until tender, then mash them while warm. Mix in sugar, spices, and eggs for a creamy base. Lastly, prepare the topping and bake until golden brown.
Add Your Touch
Consider swapping pecans for walnuts or adding coconut flakes for extra tropical flavor. Maple syrup can replace brown sugar for a different sweetness profile.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover casserole in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, about 20 minutes.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For the best flavor, use fresh spices and toast nuts before adding them to enhance their taste
- Keep an eye on baking time to avoid overcooking the topping
- Always taste your mixture before baking; adjust sweetness as needed!
Sharing this recipe brings back memories of my cousin’s laughter as we tried to sneak bites before dinner was served. It turned into a family competition of who could make the best casserole!
FAQ
Can I use canned sweet potatoes instead of fresh?
Yes, but fresh sweet potatoes yield better flavor and texture in casseroles.
What if I want to make it vegan?
Substitute eggs with flaxseed meal mixed with water and use plant-based milk instead.
How can I make it ahead of time?
Prepare the casserole a day in advance, cover, refrigerate, and bake just before serving.
Thanksgiving Sweet Potato Casserole
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves 8
Description
Thanksgiving Sweet Potato Casserole is a heartwarming dish that brings together the delightful flavors of creamy sweet potatoes and a crunchy pecan streusel. This comforting side not only enhances your holiday feast but also creates cherished memories around the dining table. With its perfect balance of sweetness and texture, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser that keeps everyone coming back for more.
Ingredients
- 4 large sweet potatoes (about 2 lbs), peeled and chopped
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup brown sugar (light or dark)
- 1/2 cup whole milk (or almond milk for dairy-free)
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans
- 1 cup mini marshmallows (optional)
Instructions
- Boil sweet potatoes in salted water until tender (15-20 minutes). Drain.
- Mash sweet potatoes with melted butter, brown sugar, milk, cinnamon, and salt until smooth.
- In a separate bowl, mix chopped pecans with flour, melted butter, and remaining brown sugar until crumbly.
- Spread the sweet potato mixture into a greased baking dish and evenly sprinkle the topping over it.
- Bake at 350°F for about 25-30 minutes until golden brown on top.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (140g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 22g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
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