Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecan Streusel
This Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecan Streusel is a perfect side dish to elevate your holiday gatherings and everyday family dinners. The creamy, slightly sweet base made from fresh sweet potatoes topped with a crunchy, nutty streusel creates a delightful textural contrast that makes every bite irresistible. Not only does this dish scream comfort food, but it’s also packed with nutrients, making it a wholesome addition to your meals.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
This Sweet Potato Casserole is a crowd-pleaser, combining the rich flavor of sweet potatoes with warm spices, and topped with a delicious pecan streusel. It’s easy to prepare, taking only about 45 minutes from start to finish, and it serves eight, making it ideal for family gatherings. Its warmth and sweetness create a delightful harmony that pairs beautifully with savory dishes, and it can easily become a staple in your recipe collection.
Ingredients
The following ingredients are needed to prepare this Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecan Streusel. Each component plays an integral role in achieving the perfect flavor and texture.
- 3 large sweet potatoes (about 2 lb / 900 g), peeled and cut into chunks
- 1 cup milk (any kind you prefer)
- 2 tablespoons butter, softened
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Pinch of salt
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 cup pecans, finely chopped
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
Directions
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This is an essential step to ensure even cooking of both the sweet potato base and the streusel topping.
Step 2: Place the sweet potato chunks in a medium saucepan and cover them with water. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat and then reduce to a simmer. Cook until the sweet potatoes are tender, which should take about 15-20 minutes. Once cooked, drain the sweet potatoes well.
Step 3: In a large bowl, mash the drained sweet potatoes. You can use a potato masher or a fork for this step. After mashing, stir in 1 cup of milk, 2 tablespoons of softened butter, vanilla extract, 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. Mix until you achieve a smooth and creamy consistency.
Step 4: Take a greased 8×8-inch baking dish (or similar size) and spread the sweet potato mixture evenly across the bottom. Ensure an even layer for consistent baking.
Step 5: In another bowl, prepare the pecan streusel mixture. Combine 1 cup of brown sugar, finely chopped pecans, 1 cup of all-purpose flour, and 2 tablespoons of melted butter. If you like, add in 1 teaspoon of ground nutmeg for an extra kick of flavor. Mix until the blend is crumbly but well distributed.
Step 6: Sprinkle the pecan streusel mixture generously over the sweet potato layer in the baking dish. Make sure to cover it evenly.
Step 7: Bake your casserole in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes. You want the streusel to turn golden brown, and the entire dish to be heated thoroughly.
Step 8: After baking, take the casserole out of the oven and let it cool slightly. This allows the layers to set before serving. Enjoy this warm side dish while it’s at its best!
FAQs
Can I make this sweet potato casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the sweet potato filling and the streusel topping separately and refrigerate them overnight. Simply assemble the casserole before baking it.
What type of sweet potatoes are best for this recipe?
Using orange-fleshed sweet potatoes, commonly known as yams, yields the best flavor and texture for the casserole.
Can I substitute pecans with other nuts?
Absolutely! Walnuts or hazelnuts are great alternatives to pecans if you’re looking for different flavors or if you have nut allergies to consider.
Is there a dairy-free version of this casserole?
Yes, you can use plant-based milk alternatives and dairy-free butter to make this casserole suitable for those who are lactose intolerant or following a vegan diet.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It should stay fresh for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed throughout.
Conclusion
This Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecan Streusel is more than just a side dish; it’s a delightful combination of flavors and textures that will have your guests coming back for seconds—and maybe thirds! Whether you’re serving it during the holidays or as a comforting meal on a chilly evening, this casserole is sure to impress. Enjoy it with your loved ones, and witness how it quickly becomes a cherished favorite around your dinner table.
