Sweet Potato Casserole II

Vegetarian Sweet Potato Casserole II Recipe from the USA

Region / culture: USA | Servings: 6 |

Vegetarian diet

Introduction

Sweet Potato Casserole II is a classic dish that is perfect for holiday gatherings or any special occasion. This recipe combines the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with a crunchy brown sugar and pecan topping, creating a delicious and comforting side dish.

History

Sweet potato casserole has been a popular dish in American cuisine for many years, especially during the holiday season. The combination of sweet potatoes, sugar, and nuts has been a favorite in Southern cooking for generations.

Ingredients

2 cans (15.5 oz / 439 g) sweet potatoes
0.5 cup white sugar
1 egg (or 0.25 cup egg mix + 0.25 cup water)
2 tbsp melted butter, divided
3 tbsp milk
0.5 tsp vanilla extract
0.5 cup packed brown sugar
0.25 cup chopped walnuts or pecans
3 tbsp flour
1 tbsp water

How to prepare

Preheat the oven to 350°F (177°C). Coat a 1 qt (946 ml) baking dish with non-stick cooking spray.
Drain and mash the sweet potatoes.
Add white sugar, egg, 1 tbsp melted butter, milk, and vanilla to the mashed sweet potatoes. Mix well.
Spoon the mixture into the prepared baking dish.
In a separate bowl, combine the brown sugar, chopped nuts, flour, 1 tbsp water, and the remaining tablespoon of melted butter.
Sprinkle the mixture over the top of the sweet potato mixture in the baking dish.
Bake at 350°F (177°C) for 35 minutes or until the casserole is heated through and the brown sugar topping is melted.

Variations

Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the sweet potato mixture for a warm and spicy flavor.
Substitute the pecans with walnuts or almonds for a different nutty topping.
For a healthier version, use coconut sugar or maple syrup instead of white sugar.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to drain the sweet potatoes well before mashing to avoid a watery casserole.

- For a smoother texture, use an electric mixer to blend the sweet potato mixture.

- Adjust the sweetness to your liking by adding more or less sugar to the recipe.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Sweet Potato Casserole II as a side dish with roasted turkey, ham, or chicken. It pairs well with green beans, cranberry sauce, and dinner rolls.

Cooking Techniques

Baking the casserole at 350°F (177°C) ensures that it is heated through and the topping is perfectly caramelized.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use fresh sweet potatoes instead of canned for a more natural flavor.

- Substitute almond milk for regular milk for a dairy-free option.

- Replace the brown sugar with honey or agave nectar for a different sweetness.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the sweet potato mixture and topping ahead of time and assemble the casserole just before baking. Store the components separately in the refrigerator until ready to bake.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Sweet Potato Casserole II in a decorative baking dish and garnish with additional chopped pecans for a beautiful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair Sweet Potato Casserole II with a glass of white wine, such as Chardonnay or Riesling, to complement the sweet and savory flavors of the dish.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers of Sweet Potato Casserole II in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (177°C) until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Sweet Potato Casserole II contains approximately 250 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Sweet Potato Casserole II contains approximately 40 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

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

Proteins

Each serving of Sweet Potato Casserole II 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 nuts and dairy (butter and milk).

Summary

Sweet Potato Casserole II is a delicious side dish that is rich in carbohydrates and fats, with a moderate amount of protein. It is also a good source of vitamins and minerals, especially vitamin A.

Summary

Sweet Potato Casserole II is a classic and comforting side dish that is perfect for holiday gatherings or any special occasion. With its sweet potato base and crunchy pecan topping, this dish is sure to be a hit with family and friends.

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the sense of anticipation I felt when I first discovered this recipe for Sweet Potato Casserole II. It was many years ago, back when I was just a young girl living in the countryside. My grandmother, who was known for her delicious home-cooked meals, had passed down this recipe to me with pride.

I still remember the day she first taught me how to make it. She had a twinkle in her eye as she gathered the ingredients and started peeling the sweet potatoes. As she worked, she shared stories of how she had learned to make this dish from her own grandmother, who had passed it down through the generations.

The scent of cinnamon and nutmeg filled the kitchen as we mixed the sweet potatoes with butter, sugar, and spices. My grandmother's hands moved with practiced precision as she layered the mixture into a baking dish, topping it with a crunchy pecan topping before sliding it into the oven.

As the casserole baked, the whole house filled with a warm, comforting aroma that made my mouth water in anticipation. When it was finally ready, my grandmother pulled it out of the oven and we all gathered around the table to dig in.

The first bite was like a revelation. The sweet potatoes were tender and sweet, with just the right amount of spices to give them a warm, comforting flavor. The crunchy pecan topping added a delightful contrast of textures, making each bite a delightful experience.

From that day on, Sweet Potato Casserole II became a staple at our family gatherings. My grandmother would often make it for special occasions, and it was always a hit with everyone who tried it. I would watch her closely, taking mental notes on her techniques and flavor combinations so that I could recreate the dish on my own.

Over the years, I have made this recipe countless times, each time tweaking it slightly to suit my own tastes. I have added a splash of vanilla extract to the sweet potato mixture, or a sprinkle of orange zest to the pecan topping. I have even experimented with different types of nuts, like walnuts or almonds, to add a new twist to the dish.

But no matter how I change it up, the essence of the recipe remains the same. It is a comforting, homely dish that never fails to bring a smile to the faces of those who try it. And every time I make it, I am reminded of my grandmother and the love and care she put into passing down this recipe to me.

Now, as a grandmother myself, I take great joy in teaching my own grandchildren how to make Sweet Potato Casserole II. I see the same sense of anticipation in their eyes as I once felt myself, and I know that this recipe will continue to be a cherished tradition in our family for generations to come.

As I sit here, reminiscing about the first time I learned to make this dish, I am filled with gratitude for the rich culinary heritage that has been passed down to me. And I am proud to carry on the tradition of sharing this delicious recipe with my loved ones, just as my grandmother did before me.