Southern Maple Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe

Sweet potato casserole is a beloved staple of Southern comfort food, often gracing holiday tables and family gatherings. This recipe elevates the classic dish with the addition of rich maple syrup, which enhances the natural sweetness of the potatoes and lends a warm, caramelized depth to every bite. Topped with a decadent blend of crunchy pecans, brown sugar, and buttery crumble, this casserole offers a perfect balance of textures and flavors.

Whether you’re making it for Thanksgiving, a potluck, or just a cozy family dinner, this Southern Maple Sweet Potato Casserole will become a favorite tradition in your home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Flavorful Elegance: The combination of maple syrup, sweet potatoes, and pecans is simply irresistible.
2. Perfect Texture: A creamy base contrasts beautifully with a crispy, buttery topping.
3. Holiday Classic: It’s a must-have side dish that pairs wonderfully with turkey, ham, or roast beef.
4. Customizable: Easily adaptable for different dietary preferences or tastes.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Sweet Potatoes

1. Peel and dice the sweet potatoes into uniform chunks for even cooking.
2. Place the diced sweet potatoes in a large pot of water and bring to a boil. Add a pinch of salt to the water.
3. Cook the potatoes until fork-tender, about 15–20 minutes. Drain well and transfer to a large mixing bowl.

Step 2: Mash the Sweet Potatoes

1. Using a potato masher or hand mixer, mash the sweet potatoes until smooth and creamy.
2. Add the melted butter, maple syrup, brown sugar, milk, eggs, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
3. Mix until all ingredients are well incorporated, ensuring a velvety consistency.

Step 3: Assemble the Casserole

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with non-stick cooking spray.
3. Spread the sweet potato mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish.

Step 4: Prepare the Topping

1. In a medium bowl, combine the chopped pecans, flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt.
2. Drizzle in the melted butter and mix until crumbly.

Step 5: Add the Topping

1. Sprinkle the pecan crumble evenly over the sweet potato layer.
2. If desired, scatter mini marshmallows on top for added sweetness and a gooey texture.

Step 6: Bake the Casserole

1. Bake the casserole in the preheated oven for 25–30 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the marshmallows (if using) are lightly toasted.
2. Let the casserole cool for 5–10 minutes before serving.

Tips for Success

1. Use Fresh Sweet Potatoes: Fresh sweet potatoes yield the best flavor and texture. Avoid canned sweet potatoes for this recipe.
2. Adjust Sweetness: Taste the sweet potato mixture before adding eggs, and adjust the maple syrup or sugar to your preference.
3. Prevent Soggy Topping: Ensure the sweet potatoes are well-drained before mashing to avoid excess moisture in the casserole.
4. Toast Pecans: For extra depth of flavor, lightly toast the pecans before adding them to the topping mixture.

Variations

Healthier Option

• Substitute coconut sugar for brown sugar and use unsweetened almond milk instead of whole milk.
• Replace the topping with a sprinkle of oats for a lighter crunch.

Nut-Free Version

• Omit the pecans and use sunflower seeds or crunchy granola instead.

Vegan-Friendly

• Swap butter for a plant-based alternative and use flax eggs (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal + 2.5 tablespoons water per egg).

Serving Suggestions

Pair this sweet potato casserole with the following dishes for a complete Southern-inspired feast:

• Main Dish: Roasted turkey, glazed ham, or fried chicken.
• Sides: Collard greens, cornbread, or cranberry sauce.
• Dessert: Pecan pie or peach cobbler for a sweet finish.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I make this casserole in advance?
A: Yes! Prepare the sweet potato base and topping separately. Assemble the casserole just before baking.

Q: How do I prevent the marshmallows from burning?
A: Add the marshmallows during the last 5–10 minutes of baking to avoid over-browning.

Q: Can I double the recipe?
A: Absolutely! Use a larger baking dish or prepare two separate casseroles. Adjust baking time as needed.

Conclusion

Southern Maple Sweet Potato Casserole is a heartwarming dish that embodies the flavors of the season. Its creamy, maple-infused base and crispy pecan topping make it an irresistible addition to any meal. Whether you’re making it for a holiday feast or a cozy family dinner, this casserole is sure to delight.

Yield: 8

Southern Maple Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe

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Sweet potato casserole is a beloved staple of Southern comfort food, often gracing holiday tables and family gatherings. This recipe elevates the classic dish with the addition of rich maple syrup, which enhances the natural sweetness of the potatoes and lends a warm, caramelized depth to every bite. Topped with a decadent blend of crunchy pecans, brown sugar, and buttery crumble, this casserole offers a perfect balance of textures and flavors.

Prep Time 20 minutes

Cook Time 40 minutes

Ingredients

• For the Sweet Potato Base:
• 4 large sweet potatoes (about 2 lbs), peeled and cubed
• ½ cup pure maple syrup
• ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ½ cup whole milk or heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• For the Pecan Topping:
• 1 cup pecans, roughly chopped
• ⅓ cup all-purpose flour
• ⅓ cup light brown sugar, packed
• ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
• 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with non-stick spray or butter.

2. Prepare the Sweet Potato Base

1. Boil the sweet potatoes in a large pot of salted water until fork-tender, about 15-20 minutes.
2. Drain the potatoes and transfer them to a large mixing bowl.
3. Mash the potatoes until smooth, then mix in maple syrup, melted butter, vanilla extract, milk, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
4. Spread the sweet potato mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish.

3. Prepare the Pecan Topping

1. In a medium bowl, combine the chopped pecans, flour, brown sugar, melted butter, and maple syrup. Mix until the ingredients are evenly coated.

4. Assemble and Bake

1. Sprinkle the pecan topping evenly over the sweet potato base.
2. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and bubbly.

5. Serve

1. Let the casserole cool slightly before serving.
2. Enjoy as a side dish at your holiday table or with any comforting meal.

Notes

• Marshmallow Option: For a classic twist, add mini marshmallows on top of the pecan layer during the last 5-7 minutes of baking.
• Make Ahead: Prepare the casserole and topping separately, assemble, and refrigerate overnight. Bake fresh before serving.
• Nut-Free Version: Substitute pecans with oats or crushed graham crackers for the topping.