Imagine a side dish so irresistible that it becomes the star of your dinner table, transforming ordinary sweet potatoes into a luxurious, mouthwatering experience. This Maple Pecan Sweet Potato Casserole is not just a recipe; it's a culinary journey that combines the rich, velvety sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes with the warm embrace of maple syrup and the delightful crunch of toasted pecans. Perfect for holiday gatherings, family dinners, or when you simply want to elevate your comfort food game, this recipe promises to tantalize your taste buds and create lasting memories around the dinner table.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 45 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs
Cuisine: American
Serves: 8 servings
Ingredients
- 4 large sweet potatoes
- 1/2 cup maple syrup
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1/4 cup butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Thoroughly wash the sweet potatoes and pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel.
- Pierce the sweet potatoes several times with a fork and place them on a baking sheet. Roast in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until they are completely soft and easily pierced with a knife.
- Remove the sweet potatoes from the oven and let them cool for 10-15 minutes until they are comfortable to handle. Carefully slice them open and scoop the soft flesh into a large mixing bowl.
- Using a potato masher or electric mixer, mash the sweet potato flesh until smooth and creamy. Add maple syrup, milk, melted butter, vanilla extract, and ground cinnamon. Mix thoroughly until well combined.
- Transfer the sweet potato mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
- In a separate small bowl, mix chopped pecans with brown sugar. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the top of the sweet potato casserole.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and slightly crispy. The edges should be bubbling slightly.
- Remove from the oven and let the casserole rest for 10 minutes before serving. This allows the casserole to set and makes it easier to portion.
- Serve warm as a delightful side dish, garnishing with additional pecans if desired.
Tips
- Choose the Right Sweet Potatoes: Look for firm, unblemished sweet potatoes with smooth skin for the best flavor and texture.
- Roasting Technique: Pierce the sweet potatoes thoroughly before roasting to prevent potential bursting and ensure even cooking.
- Mashing Matters: For the smoothest texture, use an electric mixer or rigorously mash by hand to eliminate any lumps.
- Maple Syrup Tip: Use pure maple syrup for the most authentic and rich flavor profile.
- Pecan Perfection: Toast the pecans lightly before mixing with brown sugar to enhance their nutty flavor and add extra depth to the topping.
- Make-Ahead Magic: You can prepare this casserole a day in advance and reheat it in the oven before serving, making it perfect for busy holiday cooking.
- Serving Suggestion: Let the casserole rest for 10 minutes after baking to allow it to set and make serving easier.
- Optional Garnish: Consider adding a sprinkle of extra cinnamon or a few whole pecans on top for a beautiful presentation.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 4g
Fat: 16g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Cholesterol: 30mg
