### Caramel Sweet Potato Casserole: A Festive Main Dish Recipe
#### Introduction to the Caramel Sweet Potato Casserole
Caramel sweet potato casserole is a beloved Thanksgiving staple that combines creamy mashed potatoes with tender, spiced sweet potatoes and a crunchy topping of brown sugar. This recipe offers a rich, comforting dish that's perfect for family gatherings.
#### Ingredients
- 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and chopped
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 3/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup white sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- Optional: mini marshmallows for topping
#### Step-by-Step Instructions
1. **Preheat the Oven and Prepare Your Casserole Dish**
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Grease a deep baking dish or casserole dish with cooking spray.
2. **Prepare the Sweet Potatoes**
- Place the sweet potatoes in a pot and cover them with water.
- Bring to a boil and cook for about 25 minutes, until soft.
- Drain the sweet potatoes, return them to the pot, and mash with a fork or potato masher.
3. **Mash the Potatoes**
- In a large bowl, mix in the mashed sweet potatoes with 1/4 cup of butter, 1/4 cup of white sugar, 1/4 cup of brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt to taste.
- Stir until well combined.
4. **Blend in Heavy Cream**
- Add heavy cream to the mixture and stir until it's smooth and creamy.
5. **Mix Dry Ingredients for Topping**
- In a separate bowl, combine 3/4 cup of flour, 1/2 cup of butter, and remaining sugars (white and brown).
- Cut the butter into the dry ingredients using a fork or pastry cutter until crumbly.
- Add ground cinnamon and mix well.
6. **Layering the Casserole**
- Transfer the sweet potato mixture to your prepared baking dish.
- Evenly spread out the mixture.
- Sprinkle the flour topping over the sweet potatoes, pressing it down gently so that it sticks well.
7. **Bake the Casserole**
- Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
- If using marshmallows, sprinkle them over the topping just before baking.
8. **Serve Hot**
- Remove from the oven and let it sit for a few minutes to cool slightly.
- Serve hot with a dollop of whipped cream for extra indulgence.
#### Tips
- Ensure your sweet potatoes are fully cooked; this ensures a smoother consistency in the casserole.
- Adjust the sweetness level by adding more or less sugar according to personal taste preferences.
#### Conclusion
Enjoying a delicious caramel sweet potato casserole is an essential part of any holiday meal. With its rich, creamy texture and sweet flavor, it will be a hit with both young and old at your table. Experiment with different spices or add a swirl of vanilla extract for an extra special touch!
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By following these detailed steps, you can create a memorable caramel sweet potato casserole that's perfect for any festive occasion. Make sure to tag #SweetPotatoCasserole on social media if you share your cooking experience!