There’s something truly comforting about a warm, hearty casserole, especially when it’s packed with the sweet, rich flavors of roasted sweet potatoes and topped with a crunchy pecan crumble. This Roasted Sweet Potato Casserole With Pecan Crumble is a delightful blend of creamy sweet potatoes, a hint of cinnamon, and a buttery pecan topping that adds the perfect crunch. It’s a dish that has its roots in Southern cuisine and is a staple at many family gatherings, particularly during the holiday season. Whether you’re familiar with the Sweet Potato Casserole Pioneer Woman version or looking to try a new twist, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.
Ingredients
For the Sweet Potato Base:
- 4 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
- 1/2 cup milk (any kind)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
For the Pecan Crumble Topping:
- 1 cup pecans, chopped
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions
Preparing the Sweet Potato Base:
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish and set aside.
- Roast the Sweet Potatoes: Spread the peeled and cubed sweet potatoes on a baking sheet. Drizzle with a bit of olive oil and roast in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until tender.
- Mash the Sweet Potatoes: Once the sweet potatoes are roasted, place them in a large mixing bowl. Add the melted butter, brown sugar, maple syrup, milk, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Use a potato masher or an electric mixer to mash and blend everything until smooth and creamy.
- Transfer to Baking Dish: Spread the mashed sweet potato mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish.
Preparing the Pecan Crumble Topping:
- Mix the Topping Ingredients: In a medium bowl, combine the chopped pecans, brown sugar, flour, melted butter, and salt. Stir until the mixture is well combined and resembles coarse crumbs.
- Add the Topping: Evenly sprinkle the pecan crumble mixture over the sweet potato base in the baking dish.
Baking the Casserole:
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and crispy.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the casserole to cool slightly before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.
Tips and Variations
Tips:
- Consistency Matters: If you prefer a chunkier texture, you can leave some small chunks of sweet potato in the mash rather than blending it completely smooth.
- Make Ahead: This casserole can be prepared a day in advance. Simply cover and refrigerate after assembling but before baking. When ready to serve, bake as directed, adding an extra 10 minutes to the baking time if it’s coming straight from the refrigerator.
- Healthier Option: For a lighter version, you can substitute the butter with coconut oil and use almond milk or any other plant-based milk.
Variations:
- Savory Twist: For a savory version, omit the brown sugar and maple syrup from the sweet potato base. Add a bit of garlic powder and a pinch of cayenne pepper instead. The pecan crumble topping can remain sweet for a delightful sweet-savory contrast.
- Nut-Free Option: If you have a nut allergy, you can replace the pecans with oats or sunflower seeds. The crumble will still be deliciously crunchy.
- Black Folks Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe: For a more traditional Southern take, add a layer of marshmallows on top of the pecan crumble before baking. This is a popular variation known for its extra sweetness and gooey texture.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 320
- Total Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
- Sodium: 210mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 45g
- Dietary Fiber: 5g
- Sugars: 20g
- Protein: 3g
Conclusion
This Roasted Sweet Potato Casserole With Pecan Crumble is a dish that combines comfort, tradition, and a touch of gourmet flair. It’s perfect for family gatherings, holiday dinners, or any time you want to indulge in something warm and satisfying. The combination of creamy sweet potatoes and the crunchy, sweet pecan topping creates a harmony of flavors and textures that everyone will love.