Maple Pecan Sweet Potato Casserole
Creamy Sweet Potatoes, Rich Maple Syrup, and Crunchy Pecans in Every Bite
A staple of holiday feasts, this Maple Pecan Sweet Potato Casserole transforms simple sweet potatoes into a rich, indulgent dish. With maple syrup and pecans, it’s the perfect balance of creamy, sweet, and crunchy, making it a must-have for festive gatherings.
Maple Pecan Sweet Potato Casserole – A Delicious and Easy Holiday Side Dish Recipe
DifficultyMedium
Servings6
Prep time20 minutes
Cook time40 minutes
Total time1 hour
Ingredients:
For the Sweet Potato Base:
- 4 medium sweet potatoes, (about 2 pounds), peeled and cubed
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup milk, (or cream for extra richness)
- Salt, to taste
For the Pecan Topping:
- 1/2 cup pecans, chopped
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Pinch of salt
Instructions:
- 1
Prepare the Sweet Potatoes:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Peel and cube the sweet potatoes. Place them in a large pot, cover with water, and bring to a boil over medium-high heat. Cook for about 15 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes are fork-tender. Drain the water and return the sweet potatoes to the pot.
- 2
Make the Sweet Potato Base:
- Mash the cooked sweet potatoes with a potato masher or hand mixer until smooth.
- Add the melted butter, maple syrup, cinnamon, nutmeg, vanilla extract, milk, and salt. Mix until combined and creamy. Adjust the seasoning to taste.
- Transfer the sweet potato mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
- 3
Prepare the Pecan Topping:
- In a small bowl, combine the chopped pecans, brown sugar, melted butter, cinnamon, and salt. Stir until the mixture is well combined.
- 4
Assemble the Casserole:
- Evenly sprinkle the pecan topping over the sweet potato base.
- 5
Bake the Casserole:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the casserole is heated through.
- 6
Serve:
- Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy this rich and flavorful dish as the perfect holiday side!
Equipment
- Pot for boiling sweet potatoes
- Potato masher or hand mixer
- 9x13-inch baking dish
- Small mixing bowl for the pecan topping
Recipe Notes & Variations:
Substitutions:
- Sweet Potatoes: You can substitute with yams if desired.
- Maple Syrup: Use honey or agave syrup as a substitute for maple syrup if you prefer.
- Pecans: Try using walnuts or almonds for a different nutty flavor.
Pro Tips:
- Mash the Sweet Potatoes: Ensure that the sweet potatoes are completely mashed and smooth for the best texture in the casserole.
- Pecan Topping: Be sure to watch the casserole closely during the last few minutes of baking to avoid burning the topping.
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the casserole the day before and bake it right before serving. Just add an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time if baking from the fridge.
FAQs:
Can I use canned sweet potatoes?
- While fresh sweet potatoes are preferred for the best texture and flavor, canned sweet potatoes can be used as a substitute. Be sure to drain them well.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
- Yes! Assemble the casserole a day in advance and refrigerate. Bake it on the day you’re serving.
Storage & Reheating Instructions:
- Storage: Store leftover casserole in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: To reheat, bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes or until heated through.
Nutrition
| Calories | 310 |
| Carbohydrates | 45g |
| Cholesterol | 30mg |
| Fat | 14g |
| Fiber | 5g |
| Protein | 4g |
| Saturated Fat | 5g |
| Sodium | 100mg |
| Sugar | 19g |
| Trans Fat | 0g |
| Unsaturated Fat | 9g |
History, Evolution, and Inspiration
Sweet potato casserole is a beloved dish, often found on the table during Thanksgiving and other holiday meals. Its evolution from a savory side to a sweet, dessert-like casserole has been influenced by the desire to create a comforting, indulgent dish that pairs perfectly with turkey and other hearty main courses. The addition of maple syrup and pecans gives this casserole a rich, decadent flavor that elevates the humble sweet potato into a star of the meal.
The Art of Cooking Parts of the Recipe
The key to a successful sweet potato casserole is getting the texture just right. You want the sweet potatoes to be smooth but still thick enough to hold up under the crunchy, sweet pecan topping. The maple syrup adds a natural sweetness that complements the earthiness of the potatoes, while the pecan topping introduces a crunchy, nutty contrast that completes the dish.
Interesting Things About the Recipe
This maple pecan casserole brings together the warmth of fall with the sweetness of maple and the nuttiness of pecans. It’s a dish that’s as easy to prepare as it is to enjoy, making it perfect for busy holiday meals. The sweet potato dish is naturally vegetarian and can easily be made ahead of time, reducing stress on the big day.
Overview of the Parts of the Recipe
- Sweet Potatoes: The base of the casserole, mashed to perfection for a creamy texture.
- Maple Syrup & Butter: These ingredients infuse the casserole with a rich, sweet flavor.
- Pecan Topping: A mixture of brown sugar, butter, and chopped pecans that creates a golden, crunchy topping.
What Occasions It’s Good For
- Holiday Meals: This casserole is a must-have for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any holiday gathering.
- Family Gatherings: It’s a hearty, comforting side dish that will please a crowd.
- Vegetarian Casserole: Perfect for vegetarians or those looking for a wholesome, plant-based side.
Why It’s the Perfect Recipe
This Maple Pecan Sweet Potato Casserole is the perfect recipe because it combines the creamy sweetness of sweet potatoes with the rich, crunchy topping of pecans and maple syrup. It’s a dish that complements any holiday main course, adds a touch of indulgence to your spread, and is sure to become a family favorite. Whether served at a holiday dinner or as a comforting side dish for any occasion, it’s a recipe that will leave everyone asking for seconds.
