Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecan Praline Topping Recipe
Sweet potatoes are a beloved staple in many kitchens, especially during festive seasons. Their natural sweetness and creamy texture make them a perfect base for a delectable casserole. When topped with a crunchy pecan praline topping, this Sweet Potato Casserole transforms into a show-stopping dish that everyone will rave about.
Ingredients
For the Sweet Potato Filling:
- 4 large sweet potatoes (about 3 pounds)
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup milk (or a dairy-free alternative)
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
For the Pecan Praline Topping:
- 1 cup pecans, chopped
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Sweet Potatoes
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Peel and chop the sweet potatoes into evenly sized chunks.
- Place the sweet potatoes in a large pot of salted water, bring to a boil, and cook for about 15-20 minutes or until fork-tender.
- Drain the sweet potatoes and transfer them to a mixing bowl. Mash them until smooth and creamy.
Step 2: Mix the Sweet Potato Filling
- To the mashed sweet potatoes, add granulated sugar, brown sugar, milk, melted butter, eggs, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
- Mix well using an electric mixer or a whisk until all ingredients are fully combined and the mixture is fluffy.
Step 3: Assemble the Casserole
- Pour the sweet potato mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it evenly.
Step 4: Prepare the Pecan Praline Topping
- In a separate bowl, combine the chopped pecans, brown sugar, flour, melted butter, cinnamon, and salt.
- Stir until the pecans are well coated and the mixture resembles crumbly streusel topping.
Step 5: Bake the Casserole
- Sprinkle the pecan praline topping evenly over the sweet potato filling.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 30-35 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and crispy.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
- Allow the casserole to cool slightly before serving. This dish can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Tips
- Selecting Sweet Potatoes: Choose firm, smooth sweet potatoes without blemishes. The color can range from orange to purple; select the variety that you prefer.
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the sweet potato filling a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Assemble the casserole just before baking.
- Flavor Variations: For a twist, add some mini marshmallows to the topping for extra sweetness or incorporate spices like ginger or allspice for a more complex flavor.
- Dietary Substitutions: For a vegan version, substitute eggs with flax eggs, use almond milk instead of regular milk, and replace butter with coconut oil.
Pairing Suggestions
This Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecan Praline Topping pairs wonderfully with savory dishes such as roasted turkey, honey-glazed ham, or grilled chicken. For a complete meal, consider adding a side of green beans sautéed with garlic or a crisp garden salad.
Food Photography Ideas
To capture the beauty of this casserole, consider the following tips:
- Use natural light to enhance the vibrant colors of the sweet potatoes and pecans.
- Angle the shot from above to showcase the layers and the texture of the topping.
- Garnish with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of cinnamon for an extra pop before photographing.
Further Reading
For those looking to expand their culinary skills or explore more sweet potato recipes, check out these resources:
Enjoy this Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecan Praline Topping as a delightful addition to your meal, and don’t forget to share your experiences and variations with family and friends. Happy cooking!
