Southern Sweet Potato Casserole is a beloved dish that often graces tables during Thanksgiving and other holidays. It’s known for its creamy texture, sweet flavor, and a delicious topping that can be either marshmallow or pecan-based. Here’s a classic recipe for Southern Sweet Potato Casserole:
Ingredients:
- For the casserole:
- 4 large sweet potatoes (about 2 pounds)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
- 1/2 cup milk
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon orange zest (optional for extra flavor)
- For the topping (Pecan and Brown Sugar Topping):
- 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
- 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup chopped pecans
- Pinch of salt
(Alternatively, you can use 2 cups of mini marshmallows for a marshmallow topping)
Instructions:
- Prepare the sweet potatoes:
- Peel the sweet potatoes and cut them into chunks.
- Place the sweet potatoes in a large pot and cover them with water.
- Bring the water to a boil and cook the sweet potatoes until they are fork-tender, about 15-20 minutes.
- Drain the sweet potatoes and mash them in a large bowl. You can also use a hand mixer for a smoother texture.
- Make the casserole:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In the bowl with the mashed sweet potatoes, add the melted butter, brown sugar, milk, beaten eggs, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and orange zest (if using).
- Mix everything together until smooth and well-combined.
- Transfer the sweet potato mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish and spread it out evenly.
- Prepare the topping:
- In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar, flour, and a pinch of salt.
- Add the softened butter and mix it with your fingers or a pastry cutter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Stir in the chopped pecans.
- Sprinkle the topping evenly over the sweet potato mixture in the baking dish.
- Bake the casserole:
- Bake the casserole for 25-30 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the casserole is heated through.
- If you’re using marshmallows as the topping, add them in the last 10 minutes of baking and bake until golden.
- Serve and enjoy:
- Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving.
This Southern Sweet Potato Casserole is rich, creamy, and perfectly sweet. It’s a comforting side dish that’s sure to be a crowd favorite at any holiday meal!
