Cooking Light's Sweet Potato Casserole

Cooking Light's Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe - A Delicious Dish from USA

Region / culture: USA | Preparation time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 30 minutes | Servings: 6

Introduction

This Sweet Potato Casserole recipe is a classic dish that is perfect for any holiday gathering or special occasion. The combination of creamy sweet potatoes, brown sugar, and pecans creates a delicious and comforting side dish that is sure to be a hit with your family and friends.

History

Sweet Potato Casserole has been a popular dish in Southern cuisine for many years. It is often served as part of a traditional Thanksgiving or Christmas meal, but it can also be enjoyed any time of year. The combination of sweet potatoes, brown sugar, and pecans is a winning combination that has stood the test of time.

Ingredients

3 cups mashed cooked sweet potatoes (about 2.25 lb or 1.02 kg)
0.33 cup firmly packed brown sugar
0.33 cup skim milk
2 tbsp reduced-calorie stick margarine, melted
1 tsp vanilla
0.5 tsp salt
2 egg whites, lightly beaten
vegetable cooking spray
0.5 cup firmly packed brown sugar
0.25 cup flour
2 tbsp chilled reduced-calorie stick margarine
0.33 cup chopped pecans

How to prepare

In a bowl, combine the first seven ingredients and stir well.
Spoon the sweet potato mixture into an 8" square baking dish coated with cooking spray.
In another bowl, combine 0.5 cup of brown sugar and flour, then cut in 2 tbsp of chilled margarine using a pastry blender or 2 knives until the mixture resembles coarse meal.
Stir in the chopped pecans and sprinkle the mixture over the sweet potato mixture.
Bake at 350°F (177°C) for 30 minutes.

Variations

For a sweeter version, add marshmallows on top of the pecan topping before baking.
For a savory twist, add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the sweet potato mixture.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to mash the sweet potatoes until they are smooth and creamy for the best texture.

- For a healthier version, you can use Greek yogurt instead of skim milk and coconut oil instead of margarine.

- To make this dish ahead of time, prepare the sweet potato mixture and topping separately, then assemble and bake when ready to serve.

Serving Suggestions

This Sweet Potato Casserole pairs well with roasted turkey, ham, or chicken. It can also be served alongside green beans, cornbread, or cranberry sauce.

Cooking Techniques

Baking

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use regular milk instead of skim milk.

- You can use butter instead of reduced-calorie margarine.

- You can use walnuts or almonds instead of pecans.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the sweet potato mixture and topping ahead of time and store them separately in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, assemble the casserole and bake as directed.

Presentation Ideas

Serve this Sweet Potato Casserole in a decorative baking dish and garnish with fresh herbs or additional pecans for a beautiful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

This Sweet Potato Casserole pairs well with a glass of white wine, such as Chardonnay or Riesling.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (177°C) until warmed through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of this Sweet Potato Casserole contains approximately 220 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of this Sweet Potato Casserole contains approximately 35 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of this Sweet Potato Casserole contains approximately 8 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of this Sweet Potato Casserole contains approximately 2 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Sweet potatoes are a great source of vitamin A, vitamin C, and potassium.

Alergens

This recipe contains dairy (skim milk) and nuts (pecans).

Summary

This Sweet Potato Casserole is a delicious and nutritious side dish that is relatively low in calories and fat. It is a great source of vitamins and minerals, making it a healthy addition to any meal.

Summary

This Sweet Potato Casserole is a classic dish that is perfect for any holiday meal or special occasion. With its creamy sweet potato filling, crunchy pecan topping, and delicious flavors, it is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Enjoy!

How did I get this recipe?

I have a clear memory of the first time I saw this recipe for Cooking Light's Sweet Potato Casserole. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my dear friend Margaret who had just returned from a cooking class. As we sat in her cozy kitchen, she excitedly showed me the recipe she had learned that day.

Margaret explained that this sweet potato casserole was a healthier version of the traditional dish, using ingredients like Greek yogurt and a touch of maple syrup instead of heavy cream and loads of sugar. As she walked me through the steps, I could practically taste the creamy sweet potatoes, the warm cinnamon, and the crunchy pecan topping.

I was inspired by Margaret's enthusiasm and creativity in the kitchen. I had always loved to cook, but I tended to stick to the same old recipes that I had learned from my mother and grandmother. Margaret encouraged me to step out of my comfort zone and try new things, to experiment and make recipes my own.

So, armed with the recipe for Cooking Light's Sweet Potato Casserole, I returned home and set to work in my own kitchen. I peeled and diced the sweet potatoes, boiled them until they were tender, and then mashed them with Greek yogurt, a splash of maple syrup, and a sprinkle of cinnamon. The smell of the sweet potatoes cooking filled my kitchen, and I knew I was onto something special.

As I spread the sweet potato mixture into a casserole dish and topped it with a generous handful of chopped pecans, I thought about all the different recipes I had learned over the years. From my grandmother's hearty stews to my mother's delicate pastries, each recipe held a special place in my heart and in my kitchen.

I popped the casserole into the oven, and as it baked, my house filled with the warm, comforting aroma of sweet potatoes and spices. When it emerged golden brown and bubbling, I knew I had created something truly delicious.

I invited Margaret over for dinner that evening, and as we sat down to eat the sweet potato casserole, she smiled and nodded in approval. The dish was a hit, and we both agreed that it was a recipe worth sharing with others.

Over the years, I have made Cooking Light's Sweet Potato Casserole for countless family gatherings, potlucks, and holiday meals. Each time, it has been met with rave reviews and requests for the recipe. I have shared it with friends, neighbors, and even strangers who have become friends after tasting it.

As I look back on that summer day with Margaret, I am grateful for her inspiration and encouragement. She taught me that cooking is not just about following a recipe, but about creativity, experimentation, and sharing the joy of good food with others.

So, if you ever find yourself in need of a delicious and healthier version of sweet potato casserole, look no further than Cooking Light's recipe. And remember, the best recipes are not just about the ingredients, but about the memories and stories that accompany them. Happy cooking!