GOOD EATS

Sweet Potato Casserole

My favorite time of the year is fall and Thanksgiving.

I love fall and everything associated with the changing weather. The cooler temperatures, falling leaves, sitting by a fire, s’mores, sweaters, cozy blankets and food – everything needed to make the season perfect. Along with the changing temperature comes my desire to bake fall dishes. Sweet potato casserole is one of the many items that comes to mind when I think about fall weather and Thanksgiving.

My favorite part of Thanksgiving is the side dishes. Of course, the turkey is great, but the side dishes are the best. This casserole is the perfect combination of sweet and savory and is one of my favorites.

This easy sweet potato casserole is a traditional side dish that always appears on our Thanksgiving table. It’s creamy, delicious and melts in your mouth. It has a crunchy brown sugar pecan topping that completes this dish. It’s perfect for your holiday table or just any time you have a taste for some pure Southern comfort food.

How To Bake Sweet Potatoes

Wash sweet potatoes and place them on a sheet pan. Bake at 400 degrees for about 45 minutes to an hour or until soft. The time will depend on the size of your potatoes. Let cool. Remove and discard skins. Place in a large bowl and mash with a fork until they are creamy and have no lumps.

Side dish or dessert? This recipe works beautifully for both. Got leftovers? Just warm slightly and add a scoop of ice cream. It will satisfy your sweet tooth.

Tips and Variations

n Look for small to medium-sized potatoes. n Bake or boil sweet potatoes. This is based on personal preference. n Add walnuts instead of pecans. n Add a few marshmallows to the top if desired. n Add cinnamon for warmth. n Make this casserole ahead of time. Just keep the topping separate and add to the top before baking. Remove from the refrigerator at least 20 minutes before baking.

So if you’re wondering what to make for your next holiday celebration, add sweet potato casserole to the menu. This has been a family favorite for years, and I’m sure it will wow your guests.

Be sure to check out my blog, Home at Cedar Springs Farm, for more holiday recipes.

Ingredients

3 cups sweet potatoes, cooked and mashed 1 cup sugar 2 eggs, beaten 1/2 cup butter, softened 1/3 cup milk 1 tablespoon vanilla Topping 1 cup brown sugar, packed 1/3 cup flour 1/3 cup butter, melted 1 cup pecans, chopped

Wash sweet potatoes as per directions above. Combine mashed sweet potatoes with sugar, eggs, 1/2 cup softened butter, milk and vanilla; mix well. Spoon into a greased 13-inch by 9-inch baking dish.

Combine brown sugar, flour, 1/3 cup melted butter and pecans in a bowl; mix well. Drop by tablespoon over the top of the sweet potatoes. Lightly spread the topping over the top.

Bake at 350 degrees for 30 minutes.

GOOD EATS

Gina Abernathy

~ Gina Abernathy is the author and recipe creator behind the blog, Home at Cedar Springs Farm.