Irresistible Maple Pecan Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe

The aroma of Maple Pecan Sweet Potato Casserole wafts through the air like a warm hug on a chilly day, instantly transporting you to a cozy kitchen filled with laughter and love. Imagine sweet potatoes, roasted to perfection, nestled under a crunchy, caramelized pecan topping that sings with the richness of maple syrup. This dish isn’t just food; it’s an experience that beckons you to gather around the table for family moments that linger long after the last bite.

Every holiday gathering deserves a star, and this casserole shines brighter than Grandma’s sequined dress from the ’70s. It’s perfect for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any occasion when you want to impress your guests and leave them asking for seconds—and maybe even thirds. So grab your apron and get ready to dive into a recipe that not only satisfies your taste buds but also warms your heart!

Ingredients for Maple Pecan Sweet Potato Casserole

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Sweet Potatoes: Aim for about 4 medium-sized sweet potatoes; they should be firm and free of blemishes.
• Maple Syrup: Use pure maple syrup for the best flavor; avoid imitation syrups if you can.
• Pecans: Chopped pecans add crunch; toast them lightly if you prefer extra flavor.
• Brown Sugar: Light or dark brown sugar works well here to enhance sweetness and depth.
• Butter: Unsalted butter is best; it allows you to control the seasoning in the casserole.
• Cinnamon: A teaspoon of ground cinnamon adds warmth and complements the sweetness beautifully.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Maple Pecan Sweet Potato Casserole

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it’s heating up, go ahead and spray a baking dish with nonstick cooking spray so things won’t stick later.

Step 2: Prepare Your Sweet Potatoes

Peel and chop your sweet potatoes into small chunks. Boil them in salted water until tender—about 15 minutes should do it. Drain well!

Step 3: Mash Those Potatoes

In a large bowl, mash the sweet potatoes until smooth. Feel free to channel your inner chef here; no lumps allowed!

Step 4: Mix in Flavor

Add maple syrup, melted butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt into the mashed sweet potatoes. Blend until everything is combined perfectly.

Step 5: Prepare Topping

In another bowl, combine chopped pecans with a little brown sugar and melted butter. This will give you that deliciously crunchy topping we all adore.

Step 6: Assemble and Bake

Spread the sweet potato mixture evenly in your prepared baking dish. Then sprinkle that glorious pecan topping over it. Bake in your preheated oven for about 30-35 minutes or until golden brown on top.

Transfer to plates and serve warm as a delightful side dish or an unexpected dessert treat! You’ll have everyone raving about your culinary prowess—and maybe even begging for your secret recipe! Enjoy every moment of those satisfied smiles around the table as they dig into this Maple Pecan Sweet Potato Casserole!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by roasting your sweet potatoes until they are tender. While they cool, prepare the pecan topping. Once combined, mash the sweet potatoes with maple syrup and spices, then top with the pecan mix before baking for a crispy finish.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out pecans for walnuts or add mini marshmallows for extra sweetness. A pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg can elevate the flavor, and if you’re feeling adventurous, try adding a splash of bourbon for that adult kick.

Storing & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. To reheat, pop it in the oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit until warmed through, keeping that crunchy topping intact.

Sometimes I find myself reminiscing about last Thanksgiving when my cousin declared this casserole was “life-changing.” Who knew sweet potatoes could spark such passion?

FAQs:

What is Maple Pecan Sweet Potato Casserole?

Maple Pecan Sweet Potato Casserole is a delicious and comforting dish that combines the sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes with the rich flavor of maple syrup and crunchy pecans. This casserole is often topped with a buttery pecan crumble, making it a perfect side dish for holiday gatherings or family dinners. The creamy texture and nutty topping create a delightful contrast, enhancing the overall taste experience.

How do I store leftover Maple Pecan Sweet Potato Casserole?

To store leftover Maple Pecan Sweet Potato Casserole, allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. You can keep it in the refrigerator for up to three days. If you want to store it for a longer period, consider freezing it. Wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place them in a freezer-safe container. This way, you can enjoy this delicious casserole later without losing its flavor.

Can I make Maple Pecan Sweet Potato Casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare Maple Pecan Sweet Potato Casserole ahead of time. Simply follow the recipe instructions up to the point of baking. Cover the casserole tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. When you’re ready to serve, remove the cover and bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if needed to ensure it’s heated through.

What can I serve with Maple Pecan Sweet Potato Casserole?

Maple Pecan Sweet Potato Casserole pairs wonderfully with various main dishes. It complements roasted turkey, glazed ham, or even grilled chicken beautifully. Consider serving it alongside other traditional sides like green bean almondine or cranberry sauce for a festive meal. The sweetness of the casserole balances savory flavors perfectly, creating a well-rounded dining experience.

Conclusion for Maple Pecan Sweet Potato Casserole:

In summary, Maple Pecan Sweet Potato Casserole is an indulgent dish that combines sweet potatoes with maple syrup and crunchy pecans for a delightful taste experience. Preparing it ahead of time makes hosting easier during busy holidays or gatherings. Storing leftovers is simple, ensuring you can enjoy this treat even after the meal is over. With its rich flavors and comforting texture, this casserole will surely become a favorite on your table!

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Maple Pecan Sweet Potato Casserole

• Author: Sarah
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: Serves 8
• Category: Side Dish
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

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Description

Maple Pecan Sweet Potato Casserole is a heartwarming dish that combines creamy sweet potatoes with rich maple syrup and crunchy pecans, creating an irresistible flavor perfect for any gathering.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 4 medium sweet potatoes
• 1/2 cup pure maple syrup
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1/2 cup brown sugar (light or dark)
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• Pinch of salt
• 1 cup chopped pecans
• 2 tbsp brown sugar
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and spray a baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.
2. Peel and chop the sweet potatoes into small chunks. Boil them in salted water until tender (approximately 15 minutes). Drain well.
3. In a large bowl, mash the sweet potatoes until smooth.
4. Add maple syrup, melted butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt to the mashed sweet potatoes. Blend until thoroughly combined.
5. In another bowl, mix chopped pecans with brown sugar and melted butter until well combined.
6. Spread the sweet potato mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the pecan topping over it.
7. Bake for about 30-35 minutes or until golden brown on top.
8. Transfer to plates and serve warm as a delightful side dish or dessert.

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Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1/2 cup casserole
• Calories: 250
• Sugar: 22g
• Sodium: 90mg
• Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 40g
• Fiber: 5g
• Protein: 3g
• Cholesterol: 10mg

Keywords: For added flavor, toast the pecans lightly before mixing them into the topping. You can substitute pecans with walnuts if desired or add mini marshmallows for extra sweetness.