Southern Maple Sweet Potato Casserole is a delightful dish that brings warmth and comfort to any table. This recipe combines the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with rich maple syrup and a crunchy topping. It is not just a side dish; it’s a standout that can turn a regular meal into something special. Whether it is for a holiday gathering or a family dinner, this casserole is sure to impress.
Sweet potatoes are nutritious and delicious. They are packed with vitamins and minerals. When combined with maple syrup and pecans, they create a wonderful blend of flavors and textures. This dish is perfect for both adults and kids. Everyone will enjoy the sweetness and buttery warmth that make it a favorite.
WHY YOU WILL LOVE THIS RECIPE
You will love this Southern Maple Sweet Potato Casserole for many reasons. First, it is easy to make. You don’t need to be a cooking expert to prepare it. The steps are simple, and the ingredients are easy to find.
Second, this casserole has a wonderful taste. The sweet potatoes provide a creamy base, while the maple syrup adds a rich sweetness. The topping of pecans and oats gives it a crunchy texture. It’s a perfect mix of flavors that will satisfy your taste buds.
Third, it is a versatile dish. You can serve it during special occasions like Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any family dinner. It pairs well with many main dishes, making your meal more enjoyable.
Lastly, this casserole is a hit with both kids and adults. It is sweet enough to please little ones but also has a depth of flavor that adults will appreciate.
HOW TO MAKE Southern Maple Sweet Potato Casserole
Making Southern Maple Sweet Potato Casserole is simple. Follow these easy steps to create this delicious dish:
EQUIPMENT NEEDED
- Large pot
- Potato masher or electric mixer
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Whisk
- Mixing bowls
- 9×13 inch baking dish
- Oven
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 4 large sweet potatoes (about 4 pounds), peeled and cubed
- 1/2 cup pure maple syrup
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 2 large eggs
Topping:
- 1 cup pecans, chopped
- 1/2 cup old-fashioned oats
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Place the cubed sweet potatoes in a large pot and cover them with water.
- Bring the water to a boil over medium-high heat.
- Reduce the heat to medium and cook the sweet potatoes until they are tender, about 15-20 minutes.
- Drain the sweet potatoes and return them to the pot.
- Using a potato masher or electric mixer, mash the cooked sweet potatoes until smooth.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the maple syrup, melted butter, milk, vanilla extract, cinnamon, salt, nutmeg, and eggs.
- Pour this mixture into the mashed sweet potatoes and mix until well combined.
- Transfer the sweet potato mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
- For the topping, combine the chopped pecans, oats, flour, brown sugar, melted butter, and salt in a medium bowl.
- Mix until everything is well coated and crumbly.
- Sprinkle the topping evenly over the sweet potato mixture.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, until the topping is golden brown and the casserole is heated through.
- Remove from the oven and allow to cool slightly before serving.
HOW TO SERVE Southern Maple Sweet Potato Casserole
Southern Maple Sweet Potato Casserole can be served as a side dish with many meals. It pairs well with roasted meats, turkey, and ham. To serve, cut into squares and place on plates. It can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature. You can also drizzle extra maple syrup on top for added sweetness if you like.
STORAGE & FREEZING : Southern Maple Sweet Potato Casserole
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The casserole will stay fresh for about 3 to 5 days. To reheat, simply place it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warm.
You can also freeze this casserole. Make sure it cools down completely. Then wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you are ready to eat it, thaw it overnight in the fridge. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
SERVING SUGGESTIONS
Serve Southern Maple Sweet Potato Casserole with:
- Roasted turkey or chicken for a classic meal.
- Ham for a flavorful combination.
- Grilled meats like barbecue chicken.
- A fresh salad for a light meal.
- On its own as a comforting dish any day.
VARIATIONS
You can tweak this recipe to suit your taste. Here are some variations:
- Pineapple Addition: Add crushed pineapple for a tropical twist.
- Marshmallow Topping: Top with mini marshmallows for a sweet finish.
- Different Nuts: Swap pecans for walnuts or almonds.
- Sugar Alternatives: Use honey or agave syrup instead of maple syrup.
- Spice It Up: Add ginger or cloves for extra flavor.
FAQs
1. Can I use canned sweet potatoes for this recipe?
Yes, you can use canned sweet potatoes. Just drain them and mash them before mixing with other ingredients.
2. How do I know when the casserole is done baking?
The casserole is done when the top is golden brown, and it is heated through. You can test it with a toothpick. If it comes out clean, it is ready.
3. Can I make this casserole in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare it a day ahead and store it in the fridge. Just bake it before serving.
4. Is this casserole gluten-free?
This recipe is not gluten-free because it contains all-purpose flour. You can substitute a gluten-free flour blend if needed.
MAKE-AHEAD TIPS FOR Southern Maple Sweet Potato Casserole
If you want to make things easier, here are some make-ahead tips:
- Prep the Sweet Potatoes: You can peel and cube the sweet potatoes a day in advance. Keep them in water in the fridge to prevent browning.
- Mix the Base: Prepare the sweet potato mixture up to a day in advance. Cover it and store in the fridge until you are ready to bake.
- Make the Topping: Prepare the topping mixture in advance. Store it in a separate container until you are ready to assemble and bake.
By following these tips, you can save time on the day you want to serve this delicious casserole. Enjoy your cooking!
Southern Maple Sweet Potato Casserole
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Place the cubed sweet potatoes in a large pot and cover them with water.
- Bring the water to a boil over medium-high heat.
- Reduce heat to medium and cook the sweet potatoes until tender, about 15-20 minutes.
- Drain the sweet potatoes and return them to the pot.
- Using a potato masher or electric mixer, mash the cooked sweet potatoes until smooth.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together maple syrup, melted butter, milk, vanilla extract, cinnamon, salt, nutmeg, and eggs.
- Pour this mixture into the mashed sweet potatoes and mix until well combined.
- Transfer the sweet potato mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
- In a medium bowl, combine chopped pecans, oats, flour, brown sugar, melted butter, and salt.
- Mix until everything is well coated and crumbly.
- Sprinkle the topping evenly over the sweet potato mixture.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, until the topping is golden brown and the casserole is heated through.
- Remove from the oven and allow to cool slightly before serving.