Introduction

Southern Sweet Potato Casserole is a beloved Southern tradition that graces dinner tables during holidays and special occasions. This dish combines the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with a flavorful, pecan-studded streusel topping, resulting in a comforting, indulgent side dish. In this recipe, we’ll guide you through creating this mouthwatering Southern classic.

Who is This Recipe For?

This recipe is for anyone who appreciates the comforting flavors of Southern cuisine and is looking for a delightful side dish to complement their holiday or special occasion meal. Whether you’re making it for a family gathering, a Thanksgiving feast, or simply to enjoy the flavors of the South, Southern Sweet Potato Casserole is a fantastic choice.

What Makes Southern Sweet Potato Casserole Great?

1. Sweet and Nutty Flavor: The natural sweetness of sweet potatoes combined with a pecan streusel topping creates a harmonious blend of flavors.
2. Creamy and Comforting: The sweet potato base is rich, creamy, and oh-so-comforting.
3. Crowd-Pleasing: This casserole is a crowd-pleaser, making it an ideal choice for family gatherings and potluck dinners.
4. Perfect for Special Occasions: It’s a classic holiday side dish that adds a taste of tradition to your celebratory meals.

Ingredients

Before we begin, let’s gather the ingredients needed for making Southern Sweet Potato Casserole:

For the Sweet Potato Base:

• 3 cups of mashed sweet potatoes (about 2-3 large sweet potatoes)
• 1/2 cup of granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1/2 cup of unsalted butter, melted
• 1/3 cup of whole milk
• 1 teaspoon of pure vanilla extract
• A pinch of salt

For the Pecan Streusel Topping:

• 1 cup of chopped pecans
• 1/2 cup of all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup of brown sugar
• 1/4 cup of unsalted butter, melted

Equipment Needed

To create this delectable Southern Sweet Potato Casserole, you’ll need the following kitchen equipment:

• Mixing bowls
• Casserole dish
• Electric mixer (optional)
• Baking sheet

Recipe Directions

Now, let’s dive into the step-by-step instructions for making Southern Sweet Potato Casserole:

1. Prepare the Sweet Potato Base

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Wash and scrub the sweet potatoes, then prick them with a fork. Place them on a baking sheet and bake for about 1 hour or until they’re tender.
• Once the sweet potatoes are cooked, let them cool slightly, then peel and mash them in a mixing bowl.
• In a separate mixing bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar, eggs, melted unsalted butter, whole milk, pure vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt.
• Add the mashed sweet potatoes to the wet mixture and mix until well combined. You can use an electric mixer for this step if desired.
• Transfer the sweet potato mixture to a greased casserole dish.

2. Make the Pecan Streusel Topping

• In a mixing bowl, combine the chopped pecans, all-purpose flour, brown sugar, and melted unsalted butter. Mix until you have a crumbly streusel topping.
• Sprinkle the pecan streusel evenly over the sweet potato base in the casserole dish.

3. Bake

• Place the casserole dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 30 minutes or until the topping is golden and slightly crispy.

4. Serve

• Once baked, your Southern Sweet Potato Casserole is ready to be served.
• Serve this delightful dish as a side to your holiday or special occasion meal and savor the sweet and nutty flavors.

Recipe Tips and Shortcuts

• You can save time by using canned sweet potato puree, but using fresh sweet potatoes is recommended for the best flavor.
• For an extra layer of flavor, you can add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the sweet potato base.

FAQ

Q1: Can I make this casserole in advance? A1: Yes, you can prepare the casserole in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just add the streusel topping and bake before serving.

Q2: Can I use marshmallows instead of the pecan streusel topping? A2: Certainly! Marshmallows are a classic topping for Southern Sweet Potato Casserole. Just add them during the last few minutes of baking until they’re golden and slightly crispy.

Q3: Can I make a smaller or larger batch of this casserole? A3: Absolutely! You can adjust the ingredients to make a smaller or larger batch based on your needs.

Conclusion

Southern Sweet Potato Casserole is a cherished Southern dish that brings a sweet and nutty indulgence to your holiday and special occasion meals. Whether you’re serving it at Thanksgiving or simply to enjoy the comforting flavors of the South, this casserole is a delightful addition to any menu. Try making this mouthwatering Southern Sweet Potato Casserole at home and share the tradition of Southern comfort with your loved ones. Enjoy!