Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecan Streusel Topping Recipe

Sweet potatoes are not just a nutritious powerhouse; they also provide a naturally sweet flavor that makes them a perfect base for a comforting casserole. This Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecan Streusel Topping is a delightful blend of creamy sweet potatoes and crunchy, nutty pecans, making it a must-have dish for festive gatherings or family dinners. Get ready to impress your guests with this delicious recipe that is sure to become a favorite!

Ingredients

For the Sweet Potato Filling

• 4 large sweet potatoes (about 2 pounds)
• ½ cup brown sugar
• ½ cup milk (or almond milk for a dairy-free option)
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
• Salt to taste

For the Pecan Streusel Topping

• 1 cup pecans, chopped
• ½ cup brown sugar
• ½ cup all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour)
• ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Instructions

Preparing the Sweet Potatoes

1. Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Boil the Sweet Potatoes: Peel and cube the sweet potatoes and place them in a large pot. Cover with water and add a pinch of salt. Bring to a boil and cook for about 15-20 minutes, or until they are fork-tender.
3. Drain and Mash: Drain the sweet potatoes and return them to the pot. Add the softened butter, brown sugar, milk, eggs, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Mash the sweet potatoes until smooth and creamy.

Making the Pecan Streusel Topping

4. Combine Ingredients: In a medium bowl, combine the chopped pecans, brown sugar, flour, melted butter, and ground cinnamon. Mix until the ingredients are well combined and crumbly.

Assembling the Casserole

5. Transfer to Baking Dish: Spread the sweet potato mixture evenly in a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.
6. Add Topping: Evenly sprinkle the pecan streusel topping over the sweet potato layer.

Baking

7. Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the sweet potato filling is heated through.

Cooking Tips

• Ingredient Selection: Choose sweet potatoes that are firm and free of soft spots for the best flavor and texture. Organic sweet potatoes are a great option as they are grown without harmful pesticides.
• Variations: For a vegan version, substitute the eggs and milk with flaxseed meal and almond milk. You can also explore using maple syrup instead of brown sugar for a different sweetness profile.
• Serving Suggestions: This casserole pairs wonderfully with roasted meats, such as turkey or ham, making it an excellent addition to holiday menus. You can also serve it with a side of sautéed greens for a well-rounded meal.

Mouthwatering Descriptions

Imagine a warm, creamy base of sweet potatoes enriched with the warmth of cinnamon and nutmeg, topped with a crunchy streusel that adds a delightful contrast in texture. Each bite is a harmonious blend of sweetness and nuttiness, making this casserole not just a dish, but an experience!

Food Photography Ideas

Capture the vibrant orange hue of the sweet potato filling against the golden brown pecan streusel topping. A close-up shot as you scoop a portion onto a plate will evoke the comforting nature of this dish. Consider using natural light to highlight the glossy sheen of the melted butter in the topping.

Further Reading

• Explore more about the health benefits of sweet potatoes here.
• Check out tips on how to properly store and prepare sweet potatoes here.

With this Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecan Streusel Topping, you’re not just cooking; you’re creating a dish that brings warmth and comfort to any table. Don’t hesitate to try this recipe and make it your own! Share your creation with friends and family, and let them experience the joy of this delightful casserole. Happy cooking!