Southern Sweet Potato Casserole is a warm and comforting dish that will take your taste buds on a delicious ride. This recipe is packed with flavor and makes for a delightful side dish, especially during holidays or family gatherings. It’s so creamy and sweet that everyone will be asking for seconds!
Why Make This Recipe
You should make this casserole because it’s simple and satisfying. Not only does it make use of sweet potatoes, but it also combines other yummy ingredients to create a rich flavor that pairs well with many meals. Plus, it’s a great dish to share at special occasions like Thanksgiving or Sunday dinners!
How to Make Southern Sweet Potato Casserole
Ingredients:
- 5 pounds sweet potatoes
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 cup packed light brown sugar
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 2 large eggs
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Peel the sweet potatoes and boil them until they are tender. This should take about 20 to 30 minutes.
- Once the sweet potatoes are ready, drain them and mash them into a smooth consistency.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the mashed sweet potatoes with the butter, brown sugar, heavy cream, vanilla extract, salt, and eggs. Mix everything together until it’s nice and smooth.
- Pour the mixture into a greased baking dish, spreading it evenly.
- Place it in the oven and bake for 30-40 minutes, or until it’s heated through and slightly set.
How to Serve Southern Sweet Potato Casserole
Serve this casserole warm as a side dish with roast meats or as part of your holiday spread. It goes perfectly with turkey, ham, or even a simple weeknight dinner. Don’t forget to top it with marshmallows or pecans for added flavor!
How to Store Southern Sweet Potato Casserole
To store leftovers, let the casserole cool completely and then cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. You can keep it in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. If you want to store it longer, freeze it for up to 3 months. Just thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Tips to Make Southern Sweet Potato Casserole
- Make sure your sweet potatoes are really tender before mashing them. This will help create a smooth texture.
- Feel free to adjust the sweetness by adding more or less brown sugar to fit your taste.
- You can add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for a little extra flavor.
Variation
If you want to mix it up, you can add chopped pecans or walnuts on top before baking for a crunchy topping. You could also try adding a layer of mini marshmallows for a sweeter finish!
FAQs
1. Can I use canned sweet potatoes instead of fresh?
Yes, you can! Just make sure to drain them well and mash them before adding the other ingredients.
2. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare it a day or two in advance and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to bake it.
3. What can I serve with this dish?
Southern Sweet Potato Casserole goes well with meats like turkey, ham, or even fried chicken. It’s great with almost any main dish!
