Southern Sweet Potato Casserole

For the Topping:

• 1/2 cup chopped pecans
• 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter (cold and cut into small pieces)

Kitchen Equipment Needed

Here’s what you’ll need to prepare and bake the casserole:

• Large Pot – For boiling the sweet potatoes.
• Mixing Bowls – For combining the sweet potato mixture and topping.
• Potato Masher or Food Processor – For mashing the sweet potatoes.
• 9×13-inch Baking Dish – For baking the casserole.
• Whisk – For mixing the ingredients.
• Pastry Cutter or Fork – For cutting the butter into the topping mixture.

Step-by-Step Directions

1. Prepare the Sweet Potatoes: Peel and cube the sweet potatoes. Place them in a large pot and cover with water. Bring to a boil and cook for about 15-20 minutes, or until tender. Drain and return the sweet potatoes to the pot or transfer to a large mixing bowl.
2. Mash the Sweet Potatoes: Use a potato masher or food processor to mash the sweet potatoes until smooth.
3. Mix the Sweet Potato Filling: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed sweet potatoes, granulated sugar, softened butter, milk, eggs, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and salt. Mix until well combined and smooth.
4. Transfer to Baking Dish: Spread the sweet potato mixture evenly in a 9×13-inch baking dish.
5. Prepare the Topping: In a separate bowl, mix the chopped pecans, brown sugar, and flour. Cut in the cold butter using a pastry cutter or fork until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
6. Top the Casserole: Sprinkle the pecan topping evenly over the sweet potato mixture.
7. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the filling is heated through.
8. Cool and Serve: Allow the casserole to cool slightly before serving. This helps the flavors meld together and makes it easier to serve.

Tips and Tricks

• Make Ahead: You can prepare the sweet potato mixture a day in advance. Refrigerate it and add the topping just before baking.
• Customize the Topping: Feel free to add other nuts, such as walnuts or almonds, or mix in some mini marshmallows for an extra sweet touch.
• Texture Variations: For a smoother filling, use a food processor to mash the sweet potatoes. For a chunkier texture, use a potato masher.

How to Store Southern Sweet Potato Casserole

Store leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. You can also freeze the casserole for up to 2 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before freezing. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

Variations on the Recipe

• Candied Sweet Potatoes: For a more decadent version, top with a layer of marshmallows or additional brown sugar before baking.
• Savory Twist: Add a touch of savory by mixing in some cooked and crumbled bacon or a sprinkle of shredded cheddar cheese.
• Pumpkin Spice: Replace some of the cinnamon and nutmeg with pumpkin pie spice for a seasonal twist.