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
- 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.
- Mash the Sweet Potatoes: Use a potato masher or food processor to mash the sweet potatoes until smooth.
- 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.
- Transfer to Baking Dish: Spread the sweet potato mixture evenly in a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- 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.
- Top the Casserole: Sprinkle the pecan topping evenly over the sweet potato mixture.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the filling is heated through.
- 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.