As the holidays approach, one dish that stands out on the dinner table is the scrumptious Southern Sweet Potato Casserole. Perfect as a side dish alongside turkey or ham, this luscious and colorful casserole adds a touch of sweetness to any festive meal. Ideal for potlucks or family gatherings, let’s dive into this simple yet delightful recipe.
Table of Contents
The Basic Casserole:
Ingredients:
- 3 or 4 medium sweet potatoes (6 inches long and 2 to 2 inches thick)
- 1/2 stick butter
- 1/2 cup white sugar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar (light or dark)
- 1/4 cup evaporated milk
- 2 eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla
- 1/2 tsp cinnamon
The Topping:
Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 cups crushed cornflakes
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup pecans
Directions:
- Cook the sweet potatoes in boiling water until they are tender when pierced with a fork. Allow them to cool for a few minutes before peeling. The peeling should come off effortlessly. Mash the sweet potatoes until smooth and creamy.
- Combine the mashed sweet potatoes with the casserole ingredients. The order isn’t important, but it’s helpful to let the butter soften or even melt it. Mix everything carefully.
- Spray a 9×9-inch casserole dish with non-stick cooking spray or lightly butter it. Pour in the sweet potato mixture, smoothing it out evenly.
- In a small bowl, combine the topping ingredients. If you’re short on time, apply the toppings in the order mentioned.
- Preheat the oven to 450°F and bake the casserole for 15 minutes. This will crisp up the topping while keeping the filling heated.
Helpful Tips
- Prepare the Sweet Potato Casserole the night before and cook it before serving. Store it in the fridge and take it out the next day. If the casserole is completely refrigerated, add a few minutes to the cooking time.
- Reheat the casserole in the microwave if needed. You likely won’t have any leftovers, but if you do, the sweet potatoes will still taste delicious when reheated.
Conclusion:
The Southern Sweet Potato Casserole is a must-have dish during the holiday season. Its rich flavor and vibrant colors make it an irresistible treat for friends and family alike. With this easy-to-follow recipe, you can create a memorable and delectable side dish that will leave everyone asking for seconds. So go ahead, bring this Southern classic to your dinner table, and enjoy the warmth and joy it brings to your holiday celebrations. Happy cooking!