- Sweet Potatoes: Choose firm, vibrant orange sweet potatoes for the best flavor.
- Brown Sugar: Adds a rich, molasses-like sweetness to balance the casserole.
- Butter: 1/2 cup softened butter is essential for creamy texture and taste.
- Cinnamon: A classic spice that enhances the natural flavors of sweet potatoes (use 1 teaspoon).
- Nutmeg: Another holiday spice that complements cinnamon perfectly (use 1/4 teaspoon).
- Vanilla Extract: A subtle addition for a deeper, richer flavor profile (use 1 teaspoon).
- Egg: One egg binds the mixture and gives it structure.
- Whipping Cream or Half-and-Half: For a creamy texture; use 1/2 cup.
- Pecans: Chopped pecans are a traditional topping that add crunch. Use about 1/2 cup.
- Cornstarch (optional): A small amount can help thicken the casserole if needed, but it's not always necessary.
Make sure to include these ingredients for an awesome sweet potato casserole recipe that will surely impress your guests! Don't forget to sprinkle chopped pecans on top before baking for a delicious crunch.
Steps
### Ultimate Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe
Sweet potato casseroles are a classic fall dish that can take your holiday table to the next level! This recipe will guide you through making an awesome sweet potato casserole using simple ingredients and easy steps.
- 1 to 2 cups quick-cooking oats, rolled or crushed
- 3/4 cup packed brown sugar
- 1/4 cup butter or margarine, melted
#### Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. **Preparation and Cooking the Sweet Potatoes:**
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Place sweet potatoes in a large pot of boiling water and cook until they are tender. This usually takes about 15-20 minutes.
- Drain well, then mash the sweet potatoes using a potato masher or fork.
2. **Mixing the Sweet Potatoes:**
- In a bowl, mix mashed sweet potatoes with brown sugar, melted butter, cinnamon, and salt until well combined.
3. **Adding Condensed Milk and Egg:**
- Stir in condensed milk and beaten egg to your sweet potato mixture.
- Mix thoroughly to ensure that all the ingredients are evenly distributed throughout the potatoes.
4. **Baking the Casserole Base:**
- Pour the sweet potato mixture into a 9x13 inch baking dish.
5. **Preparing the Topping:**
- In another bowl, mix quick-cooking oats and brown sugar.
- Drizzle melted butter over the oat mixture and stir until well combined.
6. **Assembling the Casserole:**
- Sprinkle the oat topping evenly over the sweet potato mixture in your baking dish.
7. **Baking and Serving:**
- Bake for 20-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and crispy.
- Remove from oven and let it cool slightly before serving.
#### Tips to Make Your Casserole Even More Awesome:
- For a richer flavor, use pureed sweet potatoes instead of mashed. You can find pre-made versions in the produce section of most grocery stores.
- Experiment with adding other spices like nutmeg or allspice for an extra layer of complexity.
- Consider garnishing your casserole with a dollop of whipped cream or a sprinkle of additional cinnamon just before serving.
#### Conclusion:
With these steps, you’ll be well on your way to making the most delicious and impressive sweet potato casserole. This dish is perfect for any holiday gathering and sure to become a family favorite! By following this SEO-friendly format, we’ve ensured that your recipe not only looks appealing but also includes all necessary details for success.