Southern Maple Sweet Potato Casserole
What I love most about this casserole is how flexible it is. You can make it ahead of time and pop it in the oven right before dinner, which makes it a lifesaver when you’re juggling multiple dishes.
Equipment
- Large pot
- Mixing Bowls
- Potato masher or hand mixer
- Measuring cups and spoons
- 9x13-inch baking dish
- Spatula or wooden spoon
- Oven Mitts
Ingredients
- For the Sweet Potato Base:
- 4 large sweet potatoes peeled and cubed
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter melted
- 1/2 cup pure maple syrup
- 1/4 cup brown sugar packed
- 1/4 cup whole milk or cream for extra richness
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
- Pinch of salt
For the Pecan Topping:
- 1 cup pecans chopped
- 1/2 cup brown sugar packed
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter melted
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Sweet Potatoes
- Peel and cube the sweet potatoes into roughly 1-inch pieces.
- Place them in a large pot and cover with cold water. Add a pinch of salt.
- Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce to a simmer. Cook until tender, about 15–20 minutes.
- Pro Tip: Test with a fork—if it slides in easily, they’re ready. Don’t overcook or they’ll become watery.
Step 2: Mash the Sweet Potatoes
- Drain the sweet potatoes and return them to the pot or a large mixing bowl.
- Add melted butter, maple syrup, brown sugar, milk, vanilla, cinnamon, nutmeg, and a pinch of salt.
- Mash until smooth using a potato masher or hand mixer.
- Pro Tip: For an extra creamy texture, use a hand mixer and beat on low speed to avoid splattering.
Step 3: Assemble the Casserole Base
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Spread the mashed sweet potato mixture evenly in a 9x13-inch baking dish. Smooth the top with a spatula so it’s level.
Step 4: Make the Pecan Topping
- In a medium bowl, combine chopped pecans, brown sugar, flour, and melted butter.
- Mix until the pecans are evenly coated and the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Pro Tip: Toast the pecans lightly in a dry skillet beforehand if you want extra crunch and a deeper nutty flavor.
Step 5: Add the Topping and Bake
- Sprinkle the pecan mixture evenly over the sweet potato base.
- Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and slightly crispy.
- Pro Tip: Keep an eye on the last 5 minutes—pecans can brown quickly, so rotate the dish if needed.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
- Let the casserole cool for 5–10 minutes before serving.
- Scoop out portions with a large spoon and enjoy warm alongside your Thanksgiving favorites.
Notes
Nutritional Value (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: 280–320 kcal
- Fat: 14 g
- Saturated Fat: 7 g
- Carbohydrates: 40 g
- Sugars: 22 g
- Fiber: 4 g
- Protein: 3 g
- Sodium: 150 mg