This savory sweet potato casserole recipe provides a delightful contrast of flavors and textures. It's a blend of soft, creamy mashed sweet potatoes, topped with a sweet and slightly spicy walnut crust. This dish makes an excellent side for holiday dinners but can also be served as a main course for vegetarian meals. It's a testament to the culinary magic that can happen when you combine simple, quality ingredients in creative ways.
Photos of Savory Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe
The majority of the ingredients for this recipe are quite common and should be readily available at your local supermarket. However, smoked paprika might not be as widely stocked. It adds a complex, smoky flavor that greatly enhances this dish, so it's worth searching for. Also, the recipe calls for raw walnuts. They're usually located in the baking aisle or the natural foods section.
Ingredients for Savory Sweet Potato Casserole
Sweet potatoes: The star of the dish. They're high in fiber, vitamins, and other nutrients. They also have a naturally sweet flavor that balances beautifully with the savory elements of this casserole.
Garlic: Adds depth and a savory note to the sweet potatoes.
Milk: Helps to create a creamy texture in the mashed sweet potatoes.
Butter: Adds richness and flavor to the dish.
Smoked paprika: Gives a touch of smoky flavor, enhancing the savory profile of the dish.
Chives: Adds a pop of color and a mild oniony flavor.
Walnuts: Provides a delightful crunch to contrast the creaminess of the sweet potatoes.
Maple syrup: Adds a touch of natural sweetness to the topping.
Rosemary: Its piney, earthy flavor complements the sweetness of the maple syrup.
Olive oil: Helps to bind the walnut topping and promotes even roasting.
Cayenne: A dash of heat to balance the sweetness.
One reader, Angelique Burdette says:
This savory sweet potato casserole recipe is a game-changer! The combination of sweet potatoes, garlic, and smoked paprika creates a rich and flavorful filling. The maple rosemary walnut topping adds a delightful crunch. It's a crowd-pleaser and a must-try for any gathering. So delicious!
Techniques for Crafting the Perfect Savory Sweet Potato Casserole
How to prepare sweet potatoes: Boil the sweet potatoes until tender, then mash them with a mixture of butter, milk, and smoked paprika.
How to make maple rosemary walnut topping: Combine walnuts, maple syrup, rosemary, olive oil, salt, and cayenne in a bowl and mix until evenly combined.
How to bake the casserole: Spread the mashed sweet potatoes in a baking pan, sprinkle with the walnut topping, and bake at 350°F for 20 minutes until the walnuts are toasted and fragrant.
How To Make Savory Sweet Potato Casserole
Garlic-infused mashed sweet potatoes, and a rich maple rosemary walnut topping, makes up this Thanksgiving favorite of sweet potato casserole!
Serves:
Ingredients
For Savory Sweet Potato Filling:
- 4lbssweet potatoes,peeled, cut into evenly sized chunks
- 4garlic cloves,minced
- fine sea salt and freshly-cracked black pepper
- 1cupmilk
- 2tbspbutter
- 2tspsmoked paprika
- fresh chives,or green onions, chopped for garnish
For Maple Rosemary Walnut Topping:
- 1cupraw walnuts,chopped, heaping
- 2tbspmaple syrup
- 1tbspfresh rosemary,chopped
- 1tbspolive oil
- ¼tspsalt
- pinchcayenne,optional
Instructions
Savory Sweet Potato Filling:
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Place the sweet potatoes in a large stockpot. Fill the pot with cold water, enough that the water line sits about 1-inch above the potatoes.
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Stir the garlic and 1 tablespoon of sea salt into the water. Turn the heat to high and cook until the water comes to a boil.
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Reduce the heat to medium-high and continue cooking the potatoes for about 10 to 12 minutes or until a knife inserted in the middle of the potato goes in easily with almost no resistance. Carefully drain out all of the water.
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Heat the butter, milk, smoked paprika, and an additional 1½ teaspoons of sea salt together either in a small saucepan or in the microwave until the butter is just melted and warm. Set aside until ready to use.
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After draining the water, immediately return the sweet potatoes to the hot stockpot, place them back on the hot burner, and turn the heat down to low.
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Using two oven mitts, carefully hold the handles on the stockpot and shake it gently on the burner for about 1 minute to help cook off some of the remaining steam within the potatoes. Remove the stockpot entirely from the heat and set it on a flat, heatproof surface.
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Using the preferred kind of potato masher, mash the sweet potatoes to desired consistency. Pour the melted butter mixture over the potatoes, and fold it in with a wooden spoon or spatula until potatoes have soaked up the liquid.
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Give the mixture a taste and season with extra salt, pepper, and/or smoked paprika as needed, to taste. Set aside.
Maple Rosemary Walnut Topping:
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In a separate small bowl, stir together the walnuts, maple syrup, rosemary, olive oil, salt, and cayenne until evenly combined.
To Bake:
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Heat the oven to 350 degrees F and grease a 9×13-inch pan with baking spray.
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Spread the mashed sweet potatoes in an even layer in the pan, and sprinkle evenly with the walnut topping.
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Bake for 20 minutes or until the walnuts are toasted and fragrant but not burnt, and the potatoes are warmed through. Transfer the baking pan to a wire rack.
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Serve warm, garnished with fresh chives, extra black pepper, or any extra toppings, and enjoy!
Nutrition
- Calories: 182.95kcal
- Fat: 4.06g
- Saturated Fat: 1.81g
- Trans Fat: 0.08g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 1.52g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.44g
- Carbohydrates: 34.25g
- Fiber: 4.73g
- Sugar: 9.42g
- Protein: 3.21g
- Cholesterol: 7.12mg
- Sodium: 419.08mg
- Calcium: 75.98mg
- Potassium: 559.25mg
- Iron: 1.06mg
- Vitamin A: 1107.18µg
- Vitamin C: 3.98mg
Pro Tip for Mastering Savory Sweet Potato Casserole
When mashing the sweet potatoes, it's important to achieve the right consistency. If you prefer a smoother texture, you can use a hand blender or a food processor. However, if you like your sweet potato filling to have a bit of texture, a traditional potato masher or even a fork will do the job. Remember, the key is to mash the potatoes while they're still hot, as they'll be much easier to work with. Also, adding the warm butter and milk mixture gradually will help to incorporate it evenly, resulting in a creamier, more flavorful filling.
Time-Saving Tips for Preparing This Casserole
Prepare the sweet potatoes: To save time, consider using a pressure cooker to cook the sweet potatoes. This method significantly reduces the cooking time and helps to retain the nutrients in the sweet potatoes.
Prep the topping in advance: Prepare the maple rosemary walnut topping a day ahead and store it in an airtight container. This will save time on the day of making the casserole and allow the flavors to meld together.
Organize your ingredients: Before you start cooking, make sure all your ingredients are prepped and organized. This will streamline the cooking process and make it more efficient.
Use kitchen tools: Utilize kitchen tools such as a food processor for mashing the sweet potatoes and chopping the walnuts. This will save time and effort in the preparation process.
Multi-task: While the sweet potatoes are cooking, use that time to prepare the topping or work on other elements of the meal to maximize efficiency in the kitchen.
Substitute Ingredients For Savory Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe
sweet potatoes - Substitute with butternut squash: Butternut squash has a similar sweet and nutty flavor to sweet potatoes and can be used as a delicious alternative in the casserole.
garlic cloves - Substitute with shallots: Shallots provide a milder, sweeter flavor compared to garlic and can complement the dish without overpowering the other ingredients.
milk - Substitute with coconut milk: Coconut milk adds a creamy texture and a hint of sweetness, enhancing the overall flavor profile of the casserole.
butter - Substitute with olive oil: Olive oil can be used as a healthier alternative to butter, providing a rich and smooth texture to the casserole.
smoked paprika - Substitute with chipotle powder: Chipotle powder offers a smoky and slightly spicy flavor, similar to smoked paprika, adding depth to the casserole.
fresh chives - Substitute with green onions: Green onions provide a mild onion flavor and a pop of color, serving as a suitable replacement for chives in the casserole.
raw walnuts - Substitute with pecans: Pecans offer a similar nutty flavor and crunchy texture, making them a great alternative to walnuts in the maple rosemary walnut topping.
maple syrup - Substitute with honey: Honey can provide a natural sweetness and depth of flavor similar to maple syrup in the topping for the casserole.
fresh rosemary - Substitute with thyme: Thyme can impart a subtle earthy and floral flavor, complementing the dish as a substitute for rosemary in the topping.
olive oil - Substitute with avocado oil: Avocado oil offers a mild, buttery flavor and a high smoke point, making it a suitable substitute for olive oil in the maple rosemary walnut topping.
Presenting Your Sweet Potato Casserole
Elevate the sweet potato mash: Create a quenelle of the savory sweet potato mash using two spoons to shape it into a smooth, elegant oval. Place it off-center on the plate for a visually appealing presentation.
Garnish with fresh chives: Finely chop fresh chives and sprinkle them delicately over the sweet potato mash. The vibrant green color will provide a beautiful contrast and add a pop of freshness to the dish.
Arrange the maple rosemary walnut topping: Artfully scatter the maple rosemary walnut topping around the sweet potato mash, ensuring an even distribution of the crunchy, flavorful topping for a textural contrast.
Use a minimalist plating approach: Embrace negative space on the plate to allow the vibrant colors and textures of the dish to shine. A clean, minimalist presentation will exude sophistication and highlight the natural beauty of the ingredients.
Incorporate geometric elements: Consider using square or rectangular plates to present the savory sweet potato casserole. The clean lines and modern aesthetic will add a contemporary touch to the dish.
Highlight the dish with a drizzle: Create a decorative drizzle of olive oil or balsamic reduction around the perimeter of the plate to add a touch of elegance and enhance the overall visual appeal of the dish.
Utilize edible flowers: Introduce a touch of elegance by delicately placing edible flowers, such as microgreens or pansies, on the plate. The vibrant colors and delicate petals will elevate the presentation and add a refined, gourmet touch.
Consider the plate color: Select a plate color that complements the warm hues of the sweet potato casserole, such as earthy tones or muted neutrals, to create a visually harmonious presentation.
Emphasize symmetry: Arrange the components of the dish with precision, focusing on symmetry and balance to create a visually striking and professional presentation.
Add a final flourish: Before serving, perform a final inspection of the plate and make any necessary adjustments to ensure that the presentation is impeccable. Every detail counts in achieving a Michelin-worthy presentation.
Essential Kitchen Tools for Making a Savory Sweet Potato Casserole
- Stockpot: A large pot used for boiling or simmering ingredients, typically used for making soups, stews, or boiling pasta.
- Knife: A sharp utensil used for cutting and preparing ingredients.
- Saucepan: A small, deep cooking pot with a handle, used for making sauces or heating liquids.
- Potato masher: A kitchen tool used for mashing cooked potatoes or other soft foods.
- Wooden spoon: A spoon made from wood, used for stirring and mixing ingredients while cooking.
- Baking pan: A metal or glass pan used for baking or roasting dishes in the oven.
- Oven mitts: Thick protective gloves used to handle hot dishes and cookware.
- Small bowl: A small dish used for mixing or holding ingredients.
- Whisk: A utensil with a handle and loops used for whipping and mixing ingredients together.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Tools used for accurately measuring ingredients in cooking and baking.
Storage and Freezing Instructions for Sweet Potato Casserole
- Let the sweet potato casserole cool completely to room temperature before storing or freezing.
- To store in the refrigerator, cover the casserole dish tightly with plastic wrap or transfer the leftovers to an airtight container. It will keep well in the fridge for up to 4-5 days.
- For longer storage, you can freeze the sweet potato casserole:
- Divide the casserole into individual portions and place them in freezer-safe containers or resealable bags.
- Remove as much air as possible from the bags before sealing to prevent freezer burn.
- Label the containers or bags with the date and contents for easy identification.
- Freeze the casserole for up to 3 months for the best quality and flavor.
- To reheat the frozen sweet potato casserole:
- Thaw the desired portion in the refrigerator overnight.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Transfer the thawed casserole to an oven-safe dish and cover it with foil.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes or until heated through. If the topping seems to be getting too brown, keep the foil on for the entire reheating time.
- For individual portions, you can also reheat them in the microwave. Place the thawed portion on a microwave-safe plate and heat it in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until warmed through.
- If you plan to freeze the entire casserole, it's best to do so before baking. Assemble the casserole as directed, but don't add the walnut topping. Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap and then foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, thaw the casserole in the refrigerator overnight, add the topping, and bake as directed, increasing the baking time by 10-15 minutes to account for the cold dish.
How To Reheat Leftover Sweet Potato Casserole
The best way to reheat leftover savory sweet potato casserole is in the oven. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and cover the casserole dish with aluminum foil to prevent the top from burning. Bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until the casserole is heated through and the walnuts are fragrant.
If you're short on time, you can also reheat individual portions in the microwave. Place a serving of the casserole on a microwave-safe plate and heat it on high for 1-2 minutes, or until it's warmed to your liking. Keep in mind that the texture of the sweet potatoes may change slightly when reheated in the microwave.
For a crispy top, you can reheat the casserole in the oven without the foil cover for the last 5 minutes of baking. This will allow the maple rosemary walnut topping to crisp up and add a delightful crunch to the dish.
If the casserole seems a bit dry after reheating, you can add a splash of milk or cream to help moisten it up. Stir it gently into the sweet potatoes before serving.
Leftover casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. When you're ready to reheat, let the casserole come to room temperature for about 30 minutes before placing it in the oven. This will help ensure even heating throughout the dish.
Interesting Trivia About Savory Sweet Potato Casserole
The sweet potato is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. It is an excellent source of vitamin A, vitamin C, and fiber, making it a healthy addition to your diet. Additionally, sweet potatoes are a great source of antioxidants, which can help protect your body from oxidative damage. So, not only is this savory sweet potato casserole recipe tasty, but it's also good for you!
Budget-Friendly: Is This Casserole Economical for Home Cooking?
This savory sweet potato casserole recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The main ingredients, such as sweet potatoes and walnuts, are affordable and readily available. The addition of rosemary and smoked paprika adds depth of flavor without breaking the bank. The total cost for a household of 4 people is approximately $10-15, making it a budget-friendly option. Overall, this recipe earns a solid 8/10 for its affordability and delicious results.
Is This Savory Side Dish Healthy or Not?
This savory sweet potato casserole recipe is a healthier twist on the classic dish, offering several nutritious ingredients and a balance of flavors. The recipe incorporates nutrient-dense sweet potatoes, which are rich in fiber, vitamins A and C, and antioxidants. The use of garlic and smoked paprika adds depth to the dish without relying on excessive amounts of sugar or unhealthy fats. The maple rosemary walnut topping provides a crunchy texture and a hint of natural sweetness from the maple syrup, while the walnuts contribute healthy omega-3 fatty acids.
To further enhance the healthiness of this recipe, consider the following suggestions:
- Reduce the amount of butter used in the sweet potato filling or replace it with a healthier alternative like olive oil or coconut oil
- Opt for low-fat or plant-based milk to lower the overall fat content
- Increase the amount of fresh herbs, such as rosemary and chives, to boost the flavor profile without adding extra calories
- Experiment with other nutrient-dense toppings, such as:
- Toasted pumpkin seeds
- Dried cranberries
- Chopped pecans or almonds
- Serve the casserole alongside a variety of colorful vegetables to create a well-rounded, nutritious meal
Editor's Opinion: Thoughts on This Savory Sweet Potato Recipe
The savory sweet potato casserole recipe is a delightful blend of flavors and textures. The creamy sweet potato filling, infused with garlic and smoked paprika, is perfectly complemented by the crunchy maple rosemary walnut topping. The balance of savory and sweet, along with the hint of warmth from the spices, creates a truly satisfying dish. The recipe's clear instructions and thoughtful details make it accessible for home cooks, while the use of fresh chives adds a pop of color and freshness. Overall, this casserole is a wonderful addition to any table, offering a comforting and flavorful experience.
Enhance Your Savory Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:
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Appetizer and Dessert Ideas to Complement This Casserole
Why trust this Savory Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe:
This savory sweet potato casserole recipe offers a delightful balance of flavors and textures. The sweet potatoes are mashed to perfection and infused with the rich flavors of smoked paprika and garlic. The addition of maple syrup and rosemary to the crunchy walnut topping adds a delightful sweetness and earthy aroma. With the use of high-quality ingredients such as fresh chives and fine sea salt, this recipe promises a delicious and comforting dish that is sure to impress.
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