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Classic Sweet Potato Casserole
As the holiday season approaches, there's nothing quite like the warmth of a Thanksgiving gathering filled with delicious food, laughter, and cherished memories. One dish that never fails to steal the show at our table is Sweet Potato Casserole. With its creamy texture, sweet flavor, and perfect balance of savory and sweet, it’s a classic favorite that pairs beautifully with turkey, stuffing, and all the traditional sides.
Here’s a recipe that will make your Thanksgiving dinner even more memorable!
Classic Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe
Ingredients:
For the casserole:
- 4 large sweet potatoes (about 2 lbs)
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 2 large eggs, beaten
For the topping:
- 1 cup mini marshmallows (or more, depending on preference)
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans (optional for a nutty crunch)
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Prepare the sweet potatoes:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Peel and chop the sweet potatoes into chunks. Place them in a large pot of water and bring to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat and simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes are fork-tender.
- Drain the sweet potatoes and transfer them to a large mixing bowl. Mash them until smooth using a potato masher or hand mixer.
2. Make the casserole filling:
- To the mashed sweet potatoes, add the milk, melted butter, brown sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Mix until all ingredients are well combined.
- Add the beaten eggs and stir until fully incorporated. Taste and adjust seasoning, if needed.
3. Assemble the casserole:
- Transfer the sweet potato mixture into a greased 9x13-inch baking dish, smoothing the top with a spatula.
4. Prepare the topping:
- In a small bowl, mix the mini marshmallows, chopped pecans, brown sugar, and melted butter.
- Evenly sprinkle this topping over the sweet potato mixture in the casserole dish.
5. Bake:
- Place the casserole in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the topping is golden and the casserole is bubbling at the edges.
6. Serve:
- Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. It’s perfect alongside your turkey, stuffing, and other favorite Thanksgiving dishes.
Why This Recipe Works:
Sweet potatoes are naturally sweet and rich in nutrients, making them an excellent choice for a holiday side dish. The combination of cinnamon, nutmeg, and vanilla enhances their flavor, while the marshmallow topping adds a touch of nostalgia and sweetness. The pecans give a delightful crunch, elevating the texture of the dish.
This recipe is simple, yet comforting, and it's sure to be a hit at your Thanksgiving feast!
Whether you're gathering with family or friends, this Sweet Potato Casserole is more than just a dish; it's a symbol of warmth, tradition, and gratitude. So, as you give thanks this year, take a moment to enjoy the food, the company, and the love that fills the room. Happy Thanksgiving! 🦃🍂