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Sweet Potato Casserole

A cozy and comforting sweet potato casserole with a creamy center and a toasty topping, perfect for holiday tables or casual dinners.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Comfort Food, Side Dish
Cuisine: American, Holiday
Calories: 250

Ingredients
  

Sweet Potato Base
  • 3 pounds sweet potatoes, peeled if boiling or left whole if roasting Look for orange-fleshed sweet potatoes like Beauregard or Jewel.
  • 4 tablespoons butter, softened
  • 1/3 to 1/2 cup milk or half-and-half, warmed Use coconut or almond milk for dairy-free options.
  • 1/3 cup brown sugar, packed Adjust sweetness to personal preference.
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon Plus a pinch of nutmeg.
  • 1/2 teaspoon fine salt
  • 2 tablespoons maple syrup (optional) For added warmth.
Topping Options
  • 1 cup pecan streusel Mix of brown sugar, softened butter, flour, chopped pecans, and a pinch of cinnamon.
  • mini marshmallows For a classic topping; add near the end of baking to prevent burning.
  • 1 cup oat crumble (optional) For a homey texture.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. If roasting, heat the oven to 400°F. Scrub the sweet potatoes and poke them with a fork. Place on a baking sheet and roast for 45 to 60 minutes until very tender, let cool slightly, peel, and mash.
  2. If boiling, peel and cube the sweet potatoes. Boil in salted water for 15 to 20 minutes until tender. Drain well and mash.
Mixing and Baking
  1. Reduce oven temperature to 350°F. In a large bowl, combine butter, brown sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
  2. Add warm milk gradually until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust sweetness or spice as desired.
  3. Spread the mixture into a greased 9x13 dish, add your chosen topping, and bake for 25 to 30 minutes until hot and lightly browned around the edges.

Notes

Prepare ahead of time by making the base a day or two in advance. Keep toppings separate until ready to bake for best results. Freezer-friendly for up to 2 months.