Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe

This delightful sweet potato casserole recipe is a classic comfort food, perfect for holidays or any family gathering. It's a delicious blend of sweet potatoes, golden raisins, and tropical pineapple, topped with crunchy pecans and fluffy marshmallows. The combination of these ingredients results in a savory-sweet dish that will leave your taste buds wanting more.

Photos of Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe

Most of the ingredients for this recipe are commonly available in any supermarket. However, some may not be readily found in your pantry, such as agave and golden raisins. Agave is a natural sweetener derived from the agave plant and is often used as an alternative to sugar. Golden raisins, unlike regular raisins, are slightly sweeter and plumper.

Ingredients for the Sweet Potato Casserole

Sweet potatoes: These form the base of the casserole. They are high in fiber and rich in vitamins.

Golden raisins: They add a sweet and fruity flavor to the dish.

Agave: A natural sweetener, adds just the right amount of sweetness to the casserole.

Cinnamon: Adds a warm and aromatic flavor.

Nutmeg and Allspice: Spices that contribute to the overall warm and flavorful taste of the dish.

Pineapple: Adds a tropical flavor that pairs well with the sweet potatoes.

Pecans: Provide a nice crunch and nutty flavor.

Marshmallows: Become delightfully gooey when baked, providing a sweet topping.

One reader, Katie Kim says:

This sweet potato casserole recipe is a game-changer! The combination of sweet potatoes, raisins, and pineapple creates a deliciously unique flavor. The marshmallows on top add a delightful sweetness, and the pecans provide a nice crunch. It's a must-try for anyone who loves a twist on traditional sweet potato casserole.

Katie Kim

Techniques Required for Making Sweet Potato Casserole

How to boil sweet potatoes: Peel and cut the sweet potatoes into large chunks. Place them in a large pot, cover with water, and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat and simmer until the potatoes are soft when pierced with a fork.

How to mash sweet potatoes: After boiling the sweet potatoes, drain them and return them to the pot. Use a potato masher or fork to mash the sweet potatoes until they reach your desired consistency.

How to bake sweet potato casserole: Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F. After preparing the sweet potato mixture, lightly spray a pie dish, casserole dish, or individual ramekins with oil. Spoon the sweet potato mixture into the dish, sprinkle with pecans and marshmallows, and bake for 15 minutes or until the marshmallows are golden brown.

How To Make Sweet Potato Casserole

For this sweet potato casserole, sweet potatoes pineapples, and raisins are mixed with various spices and topped with marshmallows and pecans.

Preparation: 10 minutes

Cooking: 30 minutes

Total: 40 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

2lbssweet potatoes,about 5 medium, peeled
½cupgolden raisins
1tspagave
¼tspground cinnamon
pinchnutmeg
pinchallspice
8ozpineapple,unsweetened crushed, drained
2tbsppecans,chopped
1cupmarshmallows,mini

Instructions

Cut sweet potatoes into large chunks; boil potatoes in a large pot covered with water until potatoes are soft if pierced with a fork.
Drain and return to the pot.
Preheat oven to 400 degrees F.
Mash the sweet potatoes and add in raisins, agave, spices and pineapple.
Lightly spray a pie dish, casserole dish or even individual ramekins with oil, spoon in sweet potatoes.
Sprinkle with pecans and marshmallows.
Bake for 15 minutes.

Nutrition

Calories: 137.85kcal
Fat: 1.01g
Saturated Fat: 0.11g
Monounsaturated Fat: 0.51g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.30g
Carbohydrates: 31.81g
Fiber: 3.52g
Sugar: 13.74g
Protein: 2.00g
Sodium: 55.00mg
Calcium: 35.67mg
Potassium: 390.13mg
Iron: 0.80mg
Vitamin A: 643.92µg
Vitamin C: 13.27mg

Technique Tip for Perfecting Your Sweet Potato Casserole

When mashing the sweet potatoes, ensure you do it while they are still warm. This makes the process easier and results in a smoother texture. Also, when adding the spices, stir them in gradually to evenly distribute the flavors throughout the casserole. Lastly, when baking, keep a close eye on the casserole during the last few minutes to prevent the marshmallows from burning. They should be golden brown and slightly puffed up.

Time-Saving Tips for Preparing Sweet Potato Casserole

Prep ahead: Chop and measure all ingredients in advance to streamline the cooking process.

One-pot wonders: Opt for recipes that allow you to cook multiple components in a single pot or pan to minimize cleanup and save time.

Batch cooking: Make larger portions and freeze the extras for quick and convenient future meals.

Time-saving tools: Utilize kitchen gadgets like food processors, slow cookers, and instant pots to expedite meal preparation.

Efficient organization: Keep your kitchen well-organized to easily locate ingredients and cooking utensils, saving time and reducing stress during meal prep.

Quick cooking methods: Choose recipes that involve fast cooking techniques such as stir-frying, grilling, or broiling for time-efficient meal preparation.

Prep shortcuts: Use pre-cut or pre-washed ingredients to cut down on prep time without sacrificing flavor or quality.

Multitasking: Plan your cooking process to include tasks that can be done simultaneously, such as chopping vegetables while something is simmering on the stove.

Substitute Ingredients For 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.
golden raisins - Substitute with dried cranberries: Dried cranberries provide a tart and sweet flavor similar to golden raisins and add a pop of color to the casserole.
agave - Substitute with maple syrup: Maple syrup offers a similar sweetness and depth of flavor to agave and complements the other ingredients in the casserole.
ground cinnamon - Substitute with pumpkin pie spice: Pumpkin pie spice contains cinnamon along with other warm spices like nutmeg and allspice, adding a delightful seasonal flavor to the casserole.
nutmeg - Substitute with allspice: Allspice can be used as a substitute for nutmeg, providing a warm and slightly peppery flavor to the casserole.
allspice - Substitute with clove: Clove can replace allspice, offering a warm and aromatic flavor to the casserole.
pineapple - Substitute with mango: Mango can provide a sweet and tropical flavor similar to pineapple, adding a unique twist to the casserole.
pecans - Substitute with walnuts: Walnuts can be used as a substitute for pecans, providing a similar nutty flavor and crunchy texture to the casserole.
marshmallows - Substitute with toasted coconut flakes: Toasted coconut flakes can add a delightful crunch and sweet flavor similar to marshmallows, while also offering a tropical twist to the casserole.

Presenting Your Sweet Potato Casserole

Elevate the sweet potato mash: Create a quenelle of the sweet potato mash using two spoons to shape it into a smooth, elegant oval. Place it in the center of the plate for a refined presentation.
Garnish with golden raisins and pecans: Sprinkle the golden raisins and pecans around the sweet potato mash, adding a touch of visual appeal and texture to the dish.
Caramelize the marshmallows: Torch the marshmallows until they are lightly caramelized, adding a beautiful golden hue and a hint of smokiness to the dish.
Incorporate pineapple coulis: Drizzle a pineapple coulis around the plate in a decorative manner, adding a burst of vibrant color and a complementary fruity flavor to the dish.
Serve in individual ramekins: For an elegant touch, consider serving the sweet potato casserole in individual ramekins, allowing each guest to enjoy their own perfectly portioned and visually appealing serving.

Essential Tools for Making a Sweet Potato Casserole

Large pot: A large, deep pot is essential for boiling the sweet potatoes until they are soft.
Fork: A fork is used to test the doneness of the sweet potatoes by piercing them.
Oven: The oven is used to bake the sweet potato casserole.
Pie dish, casserole dish, or individual ramekins: These are used to bake and serve the sweet potato casserole.
Mixing bowl: A mixing bowl is used to combine the mashed sweet potatoes with the other ingredients.
Food processor: A food processor can be used to mash the sweet potatoes quickly and efficiently.
Spoon: A spoon is used to transfer the sweet potato mixture into the baking dish.
Baking spray or oil: This is used to lightly coat the baking dish to prevent sticking.
Measuring cups and spoons: These are used to measure the ingredients accurately.
Baking sheet: A baking sheet can be used to catch any drips or spills while the casserole bakes.

Storing and Freezing Sweet Potato Casserole

Here are the storing and freezing guidelines for sweet potato casserole:

Let the casserole cool completely to room temperature before storing or freezing. This prevents condensation from forming which can make the topping soggy.
For storing in the refrigerator:
- Cover the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil, or transfer leftovers to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 5 days.
- To reheat, bake at 300°F until warmed through, around 20-30 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions.
For freezing:
- Wrap the cooled baking dish tightly with a layer of plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 3 months.
- Alternatively, scoop leftovers into a freezer-safe container or Ziploc bag, removing as much air as possible before sealing. Thaw overnight in the fridge.
- Reheat the thawed casserole, covered with foil, at 350°F for about 30 minutes or until heated through. Uncover for the last 5-10 minutes to crisp up the toppings like the pecans and marshmallows.
Consider freezing the casserole before baking for best results. Assemble it fully, wrap tightly, and freeze. Let it thaw overnight before baking as directed, adding 5-10 minutes to the baking time if needed.

How To Reheat Leftover Sweet Potato Casserole

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the leftover sweet potato casserole to an oven-safe dish and cover it with aluminum foil. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the casserole is heated through. Remove the foil during the last 5 minutes of baking to allow the marshmallows to crisp up and turn golden brown.
For a quicker reheating method, use your microwave. Place a portion of the leftover casserole in a microwave-safe dish and heat it on high power for 1-2 minutes, or until it's heated through. If the casserole has marshmallows on top, they may melt during microwaving, so you can add a fresh layer of marshmallows and place the dish under the broiler for a minute or two to toast them.
If you have a lot of leftover casserole, you can reheat it in a slow cooker. Transfer the casserole to the slow cooker and heat it on low for 2-3 hours or until it's heated through. This method is perfect for keeping the casserole warm during a party or gathering.
For a crispy top, reheat the casserole in a skillet on the stovetop. Melt a tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add a portion of the leftover casserole and press it down with a spatula. Cook for 3-4 minutes or until the bottom is crispy and golden brown. Flip the casserole over and cook for another 2-3 minutes to crisp up the other side.
If you want to add some extra flavor to your leftover casserole, sprinkle some chopped pecans, walnuts, or cinnamon on top before reheating. You can also drizzle some maple syrup or honey over the top for added sweetness.

Random Fact About Sweet Potato Casserole

Sweet potato casserole is a classic dish often enjoyed during Thanksgiving in the United States. It is a versatile recipe that can be made with various toppings, such as marshmallows, pecans, or even a streusel topping.

Is Making Sweet Potato Casserole Economical for Home Cooking?

This sweet potato casserole recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The main ingredients, sweet potatoes and raisins, are budget-friendly, and the addition of agave and spices enhances the flavor without breaking the bank. The use of pineapple and marshmallows adds a touch of indulgence without significantly increasing the cost. Overall, this recipe offers a good balance of affordability and taste. On a scale of 1-10, I would rate this recipe a solid 8 for its cost-effectiveness. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people would be around $10-$12, making it a wallet-friendly option for a delicious side dish.

Is Sweet Potato Casserole Healthy or Unhealthy?

This sweet potato casserole recipe has both healthy and unhealthy elements. On the positive side, sweet potatoes are a nutritious ingredient, packed with fiber, vitamins, and minerals. The addition of spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice can provide antioxidants and anti-inflammatory benefits. Pineapple is also a good source of vitamin C and manganese. However, the recipe includes some less healthy ingredients, such as marshmallows and agave, which are high in sugar and can contribute to excessive calorie intake.

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:

Reduce the amount of marshmallows or replace them with a healthier topping, such as a crumble made with oats, nuts, and a small amount of honey or maple syrup
Instead of agave, use a natural sweetener like mashed bananas or unsweetened applesauce to add sweetness without the extra sugar
Increase the amount of pecans for added healthy fats, fiber, and protein
Add more spices, such as ginger or vanilla extract, to enhance the flavor without relying on sugar
Serve the casserole as a side dish alongside lean proteins and non-starchy vegetables to create a balanced meal

Editor's Thoughts on This Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe

This sweet potato casserole recipe is a delightful blend of flavors and textures. The combination of sweet potatoes, golden raisins, and pineapple creates a harmonious balance of sweetness, while the pecans add a satisfying crunch. The addition of marshmallows on top adds a touch of indulgence, making it a perfect dish for special occasions. The use of agave instead of sugar adds a subtle sweetness without overpowering the natural flavors of the ingredients. Overall, this recipe offers a unique twist on a classic dish and is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

Enhance Your Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Mashed Potatoes: Creamy garlic mashed potatoes with a hint of parmesan cheese

Green Beans: Sautéed green beans with crispy bacon and a balsamic glaze

Roasted Carrots: Honey glazed roasted carrots with a sprinkle of fresh thyme

Alternative Recipes Similar to Sweet Potato Casserole

Roasted Vegetable Quinoa Salad: This hearty salad is packed with roasted vegetables, quinoa, and a tangy vinaigrette dressing. It's a perfect dish for a healthy and satisfying meal.

Braised Beef Stew: Tender pieces of beef are slow-cooked with vegetables and a savory broth to create a comforting and flavorful stew. Serve it with crusty bread for a complete meal.

Mango Coconut Chia Pudding: This creamy and tropical pudding is made with fresh mango, coconut milk, and chia seeds. It's a delicious and nutritious dessert or snack option.

Appetizers and Main Courses to Serve With This Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Impress your guests with these savory stuffed mushrooms filled with a flavorful mixture of herbs, cheese, and breadcrumbs.

Spinach and Artichoke Dip: Indulge in this creamy and cheesy spinach and artichoke dip, perfect for dipping with crispy bread or crunchy veggies.

Main Courses:

Chicken Alfredo: Indulge in a creamy and savory pasta dish that combines tender chicken with rich alfredo sauce, served over a bed of perfectly cooked fettuccine. This classic Italian favorite is sure to satisfy your cravings for a comforting and satisfying meal.

Beef Stroganoff: Treat yourself to a hearty and flavorful dish featuring tender strips of beef cooked in a creamy and tangy sauce, served over a bed of buttery egg noodles. This comforting and filling meal is perfect for a cozy night in.

Why trust this Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe:

This sweet potato casserole recipe is a delightful blend of wholesome ingredients, ensuring a flavorful and satisfying dish. The sweet potatoes provide a rich source of vitamins and minerals, while the golden raisins and agave offer natural sweetness without overwhelming the palate. The addition of cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice infuses warm, aromatic notes, complementing the natural sweetness of the dish. The inclusion of pineapple adds a refreshing twist, and the pecans and marshmallows provide a delightful crunch and gooey texture. Trust in this recipe for a delightful and comforting casserole experience.

Share your thoughts on the Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe in the Recipe Sharing forum and let us know if you have any tips or variations to make this classic dish even better!

FAQ:

Can I use regular potatoes instead of sweet potatoes for this casserole?

Yes, you can use regular potatoes, but keep in mind that the flavor and texture will be different from the original recipe.

Can I substitute the golden raisins with another type of dried fruit?

Absolutely! You can substitute golden raisins with dried cranberries, chopped apricots, or even chopped dates for a different flavor profile.

Can I omit the marshmallows from the casserole?

Of course! If you prefer not to use marshmallows, you can simply leave them out. The casserole will still be delicious without them.

Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it before baking. Just make sure to bring it to room temperature before baking to ensure even cooking.

Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned pineapple?

Yes, you can use fresh pineapple instead of canned. Just make sure to chop it into small pieces before adding it to the casserole.