Why Make This Recipe
Southern Maple Sweet Potato Casserole is a delightful dish that brings comfort and warmth to any meal. This recipe combines the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with rich maple syrup and the crunch of pecans. Whether it’s for a family gathering or an everyday dinner, this casserole is sure to please everyone at the table. Plus, it’s simple to make and can be prepared ahead of time.
How to Make Southern Maple Sweet Potato Casserole
Ingredients
- Sweet potatoes
- Maple syrup
- Brown sugar
- Raisins
- Spices (cinnamon, nutmeg)
- Marshmallows
- Pecans
- Butter or vegan substitute
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Peel and cube the sweet potatoes, then boil them until tender. Drain and mash.
- In a large bowl, combine the mashed sweet potatoes with maple syrup, brown sugar, raisins, and spices.
- Spread the mixture into a baking dish.
- In a separate bowl, mix chopped pecans with melted butter and sprinkle it over the casserole.
- Add marshmallows on top if desired.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes until hot and bubbly. Serve warm.
How to Serve Southern Maple Sweet Potato Casserole
Serve Southern Maple Sweet Potato Casserole warm as a side dish. It pairs well with roasted meats, Thanksgiving turkey, or a holiday ham. You can also add it to any family meal or potluck, and it is loved by both kids and adults.
How to Store Southern Maple Sweet Potato Casserole
To store leftovers, let the casserole cool completely. Then cover it with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in the fridge. It will last for about 3-4 days. You can also freeze it for longer storage. Just make sure to use an airtight container. When ready to eat, thaw and reheat.
Tips to Make Southern Maple Sweet Potato Casserole
- For a richer flavor, you can add some vanilla extract to the sweet potato mixture.
- Swap the pecans for walnuts or almonds for a different crunch.
- If you like your casserole extra sweet, add more maple syrup or brown sugar.
Variation
You can make a vegan version by using a vegan butter substitute and ensuring all other ingredients are vegan-friendly. You can also try adding a layer of coconut flakes for extra flavor.
FAQs
Can I use canned sweet potatoes?
Yes, but fresh sweet potatoes will offer a better texture and flavor.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare it a day in advance and bake it just before serving.
What can I serve with this casserole?
Southern Maple Sweet Potato Casserole goes well with turkey, ham, or any roasted meat. It’s also great with other holiday dishes.
Southern Maple Sweet Potato Casserole
Equipment
- baking dish (9x13 inch)
- large pot
- large bowl
- potato masher
- small bowl
Ingredients
Casserole
- 3 pounds sweet potatoes peeled and diced
- 0.5 cup maple syrup
- 0.25 cup brown sugar
- 0.5 cup unsalted butter melted
- 0.25 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 0.5 teaspoon cinnamon
- 0.25 teaspoon nutmeg
- 0.5 teaspoon salt
Topping
- 1 cup pecans chopped
- 0.25 cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 0.25 cup unsalted butter cold, cubed
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.
- Boil diced sweet potatoes in salted water until very tender, about 15-20 minutes. Drain well.
Casserole Assembly
- Mash the cooked sweet potatoes in a large bowl. Add maple syrup, brown sugar, melted butter, milk, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Mix until smooth.
- Spread the sweet potato mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish.
Topping and Baking
- In a separate bowl, combine chopped pecans, brown sugar, and flour. Cut in the cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Sprinkle the pecan topping evenly over the sweet potato mixture.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the casserole is heated through.