Are you searching for the perfect side dish to complement your holiday feast or family gathering? Look no further than Sweet Potato Casserole! This timeless classic combines the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with a decadent streusel topping and gooey marshmallows for a dish that’s sure to delight your taste buds and warm your heart. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore how to make this beloved casserole step by step, along with variations, tips, and answers to frequently asked questions. Get ready to savor the flavors of the season with this irresistible Sweet Potato Casserole recipe!
Sweet Potato Casserole is a beloved dish that graces many holiday tables with its comforting flavors and nostalgic appeal. Whether served as a side dish for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any special occasion, this casserole never fails to impress. The creamy sweet potato filling, flavored with warm spices and topped with a crunchy streusel topping and fluffy marshmallows, creates a harmonious blend of textures and tastes that is simply irresistible. So, let’s dive into the recipe and learn how to make this timeless classic that’s guaranteed to become a family favorite!
Ingredients
For the Filling:
- 3 pounds sweet potatoes
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground clove
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
- 2 eggs, beaten
For the Streusel Topping:
- 1 1/2 tablespoon unsalted butter, cold, cut into 1/2 inch cubes
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
Final Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup walnuts, roughly chopped
- 1 1/2 cups mini marshmallows
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
- Prepare Sweet Potatoes: Peel the sweet potatoes and cut them into chunks. Place them in a large pot of salted water and bring to a boil. Cook until the sweet potatoes are tender, about 15-20 minutes. Drain the sweet potatoes and transfer them to a large mixing bowl.
- Mash Sweet Potatoes: Mash the cooked sweet potatoes with a potato masher or fork until smooth and creamy.
- Add Ingredients: To the mashed sweet potatoes, add the heavy cream, brown sugar, garlic powder, onion powder, cinnamon, ground clove, lemon zest, softened butter, and beaten eggs. Stir until well combined and smooth.
- Prepare Streusel Topping: In a separate bowl, combine the cold cubed butter, brown sugar, and all-purpose flour. Use a pastry cutter or your fingers to mix the ingredients until crumbly.
- Assemble Casserole: Transfer the sweet potato mixture to the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly. Sprinkle the streusel topping over the sweet potato mixture, followed by the chopped walnuts.
- Bake: Bake the casserole in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the streusel topping is golden brown and the sweet potato filling is set.
- Add Marshmallows: Remove the casserole from the oven and sprinkle the mini marshmallows evenly over the top. Return the casserole to the oven and bake for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the marshmallows are golden brown and toasted.
- Serve: Allow the Sweet Potato Casserole to cool for a few minutes before serving. Serve warm and enjoy the irresistible combination of flavors and textures!
Cook Notes and Variations
- Texture Preference: If you prefer a smoother sweet potato filling, you can use a hand mixer or stand mixer to beat the ingredients until creamy. For a chunkier texture, simply mash the sweet potatoes with a fork.
- Nut-Free Option: Omit the walnuts for a nut-free version of the casserole. You can also substitute pecans or almonds if desired.
- Make-Ahead Option: Prepare the sweet potato filling and streusel topping ahead of time and store them separately in the refrigerator. Assemble the casserole just before baking to ensure the toppings stay crisp.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions
For those following a keto or low-carb lifestyle, here are some modifications you can make to the Sweet Potato Casserole recipe:
- Replace Sweet Potatoes: Substitute mashed cauliflower or mashed butternut squash for the sweet potatoes to reduce the carbohydrate content of the dish.
- Low-Carb Topping: Use a combination of almond flour, coconut flour, and sugar-free sweeteners to create a low-carb streusel topping. Skip the marshmallows or use sugar-free marshmallows for a keto-friendly option.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I use canned sweet potatoes instead of fresh ones?
A: While fresh sweet potatoes are preferred for their flavor and texture, you can use canned sweet potatoes as a convenient alternative. Drain and mash the canned sweet potatoes before proceeding with the recipe.
Q: Can I make this casserole ahead of time and reheat it later?
A: Yes, you can assemble the Sweet Potato Casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it, covered, for up to 1 day before baking. Let the casserole come to room temperature before baking as directed.
Q: Can I substitute maple syrup for brown sugar in the filling?
A: Yes, you can use maple syrup as a substitute for brown sugar to sweeten the filling. Adjust the amount according to your taste preferences.
Q: Can I omit the eggs from the filling?
A: While eggs help bind the ingredients together and contribute to the texture of the filling, you can omit them if necessary. The filling may be slightly less firm without the eggs, but it will still be delicious.
Sweet Potato Casserole is a quintessential holiday dish that embodies the spirit of warmth, comfort, and togetherness. With its lusciously creamy sweet potato filling, flavorful streusel topping, and toasted marshmallow finish, this casserole is a celebration of the season’s bounty. Whether served alongside roasted turkey, glazed ham, or as a standalone side dish, Sweet Potato Casserole is sure to evoke memories of cherished gatherings and create new ones with each delightful bite. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and prepare to savor the joyous flavors of this beloved holiday classic!