Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecans – Easy Holiday Side

Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecans is a crowd-pleasing, comforting side dish perfect for the holiday season. Unlike traditional sweet potato casseroles topped with marshmallows, this version is topped with a crunchy pecan and brown sugar mixture that adds a delightful texture and richness to the dish. Whether you’re preparing it for Thanksgiving, a family dinner, or a holiday gathering, this casserole is an easy, healthier alternative that retains all the comforting flavors. Read on to discover how to make this delicious Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecans, and learn about ingredient substitutions, tips, and variations.

Why You’ll Love This Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecans

This Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecans stands out because it combines the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with the earthy crunch of pecans. The absence of marshmallows makes this dish feel lighter while still being indulgent, thanks to the brown sugar topping. It’s a great option for those who want to enjoy a healthier holiday side dish without sacrificing flavor. This recipe is simple to prepare and can be prepped ahead of time, making it a stress-free addition to any meal.

Ingredients for Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecans

Here are the key ingredients you’ll need to make this delicious casserole:

• Sweet Potatoes: The star of the dish, these provide the natural sweetness and earthy flavor. They also offer vital nutrients such as vitamin A and fiber.
• Unsalted Butter: Adds moisture and richness to the sweet potato mixture while helping to bind the topping ingredients together.
• Maple Syrup: A natural sweetener that complements the sweet potatoes and gives the casserole a subtle, warm sweetness.
• Milk: Adds creaminess to the sweet potato base. Use any milk you prefer, but higher-fat options like whole milk or coconut milk will provide the richest flavor.
• Eggs: Provide structure to the casserole, helping it set while adding protein and moisture.
• Vanilla Extract: A touch of vanilla brings all the flavors together, enhancing the natural sweetness of the dish.
• Cinnamon: A warming spice that pairs perfectly with sweet potatoes and adds a hint of spice.
• Salt: A pinch of salt helps balance the sweetness of the potatoes and enhances the other flavors.
• Pecans: The key ingredient for the topping, adding a lovely crunch and nutty flavor.
• Brown Sugar: Sweetens the pecan topping and creates a caramelized crust. You can substitute with coconut sugar for a slightly different flavor.
• Flour: Helps thicken the topping and ensures it crisps up in the oven.

Alternative Ingredient Suggestions

If you’re looking to make this dish more suited to your dietary preferences or if you’re missing an ingredient, here are some swaps:

• Vegan: Replace the butter with a plant-based version and use almond or coconut milk.
• Gluten-Free: Substitute the flour in the topping with a gluten-free flour blend.
• Lower Sugar: Use less brown sugar in the topping or swap it for coconut sugar for a lower glycemic index option.
• Marshmallow Topping: If you prefer a more traditional approach, you can always top the casserole with mini marshmallows, adding them to the casserole during the last 10 minutes of baking.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecans

Making Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecans is straightforward. Follow these simple steps to create a delicious and comforting dish:

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (218°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to make clean-up easier.
2. Wash and prep the sweet potatoes by poking holes in them with a fork. Place them on the baking sheet and roast in the preheated oven for 45-60 minutes, until the skin puffs up and the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
3. After roasting, reduce the oven temperature to 350°F (177°C). Spray a 9×13 inch baking dish with cooking spray. Peel the skins off the sweet potatoes and mash the flesh in a large bowl using a potato masher for a chunkier texture or a hand mixer for a creamier consistency.
4. Add the softened butter, maple syrup, milk, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt to the mashed sweet potatoes. Mix well, tasting and adjusting the seasoning if necessary.
5. Beat the eggs and add them to the sweet potato mixture. Stir until everything is well combined. Spread the mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish.
6. In a separate bowl, prepare the pecan topping by mixing chopped pecans, flour, brown sugar, melted butter, and cinnamon. Stir until the pecans are well coated.
7. Sprinkle the pecan mixture evenly over the sweet potato mixture in the baking dish.
8. Bake at 350°F (177°C) for 25-30 minutes, until the topping is golden brown and crispy. Keep an eye on it during the last few minutes to prevent the pecans from burning.

Tips & Tricks for Perfect Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecans

• Texture Adjustment: For a chunkier texture, mash the sweet potatoes by hand. For a smooth, creamy casserole, use a hand mixer.
• Precook the Topping: If making the casserole ahead of time, store the topping separately and add it just before baking.
• Check for Doneness: Ensure the casserole is baked until the topping is golden brown and the sweet potatoes are soft and set.
• Use Room Temperature Eggs: Room temperature eggs incorporate better into the mixture, helping to achieve a smoother consistency.

Pairing Ideas and Variations

Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecans is versatile and pairs well with a variety of dishes. Here are some ideas for what to serve with this side dish:

• Roasted Beet and Arugula Salad with Goat Cheese: The earthy flavors of roasted beets complement the sweetness of the casserole.
• Baked Chicken Sage Meatballs with Parmesan and Lemon: The savory chicken meatballs add a protein-packed contrast to the sweet and nutty casserole.
• Fall Pasta Salad with Butternut Squash and Brussels Sprouts: A warm, hearty salad that adds more seasonal vegetables to the meal.
• Vegan Variation: Make the casserole vegan by swapping the butter for plant-based alternatives and using dairy-free milk.

Storing and Reheating Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecans

This casserole is perfect for leftovers. Store any uneaten casserole in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4-5 days. To reheat, cover with foil and warm it in the oven at 350°F (177°C) for 15-20 minutes until heated through.

Make-Ahead Tips

To save time during the busy holiday season, you can prepare the sweet potato mixture and the topping ahead of time. Store the sweet potato mixture and topping separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 1-2 days. When ready to bake, assemble the casserole and bake as directed.

This Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecans is an easy and delicious dish that will quickly become a holiday favorite. Its natural sweetness, crunchy pecan topping, and simple ingredients make it a standout side for any festive occasion.

Conclusion

Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecans is a delightful and healthy twist on a classic dish that everyone can enjoy. With its rich flavors, nutty topping, and vibrant sweet potatoes, this casserole is sure to be a hit at your next holiday gathering. Whether you serve it for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or as a comforting side for any meal, this dish offers a perfect balance of sweetness and crunch without the overload of sugar from traditional marshmallow toppings. It’s easy to prepare, can be made ahead of time, and is flexible enough to fit various dietary needs. Try this recipe out and see how it becomes a new favorite in your holiday repertoire.

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More Relevant Recipes

• Honey Roasted Chicken and Sweet Potatoes: This recipe features tender roasted chicken paired with sweet potatoes, glazed in honey for a sweet and savory combination. It’s a great meal that mirrors the comforting, seasonal flavors of sweet potato casserole, making it a perfect main dish alongside the casserole.
• Butternut Squash and Sweet Potato Soup: A rich, velvety soup combining the natural sweetness of butternut squash and sweet potatoes. It’s a warming, wholesome option that echoes the cozy, comforting essence of sweet potatoes while offering a smooth, flavorful twist.
• Apple Pecan Fall Salad: This refreshing salad is a perfect balance of sweetness and crunch, with crisp apples, toasted pecans, and a maple vinaigrette. It pairs beautifully with Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecans, offering a lighter, fresh contrast to the rich casserole while still embracing the fall flavors.

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