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Are you ready to bring a touch of nostalgia and comfort to your table? Whether it’s for a holiday feast or a cozy weeknight dinner, an old-fashion sweet potato casserole is a timeless crowd-pleaser. This dish is all about creamy sweet potatoes, warm spices, and a heavenly topping that creates the perfect balance of flavor and texture.
Imagine this: the buttery crunch of pecan streusel or the gooey sweetness of marshmallows paired with the rich, spiced sweet potato filling. It’s the kind of dish that gets passed around the table until there’s nothing left in the pan.
But what makes this casserole truly special isn’t just the ingredients—it’s the memories that come with it. From grandma’s kitchen to your own, this recipe is a cherished tradition.
In this step-by-step guide, I’ll show you how to make old-fashion sweet potato casserole like a pro. Plus, we’ll explore tips, variations, and everything you need to create a dish that’s sure to be the star of any meal. Let’s get started!
How to Make Old-Fashion Sweet Potato Casserole
Ingredients for Old-Fashion Sweet Potato Casserole
To create the best old fashioned sweet potato casserole, you’ll need the following ingredients:
For the Sweet Potato Base:
- 3 cups mashed sweet potatoes (about 3-4 medium sweet potatoes)
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- ½ cup milk (whole or 2%)
- ⅓ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- Pinch of salt
For the Topping:
Classic Pecan Streusel:
- ⅓ cup all-purpose flour
- ⅓ cup brown sugar
- 1 cup chopped pecans
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
Marshmallow Topping (optional):
- 1 ½ cups mini marshmallows
Instructions to Make Old-Fashion Sweet Potato Casserole
Step 1: Prepare the Sweet Potatoes
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Peel and cube the sweet potatoes. Place them in a large pot, cover with water, and boil until fork-tender (about 15-20 minutes).
- Drain the potatoes and mash them until smooth. You can use a potato masher or a hand mixer for a creamy texture.
Step 2: Make the Sweet Potato Base
- In a mixing bowl, combine the mashed sweet potatoes, sugar, beaten eggs, milk, melted butter, vanilla, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
- Mix until all ingredients are well incorporated and smooth.
- Pour the sweet potato mixture into a greased 9×13-inch casserole dish and spread it evenly.
Step 3: Prepare the Topping
For Pecan Streusel:
- In a small bowl, combine flour, brown sugar, and chopped pecans. Add melted butter and mix until crumbly.
- Sprinkle the streusel evenly over the sweet potato mixture.
For Marshmallows:
- If using marshmallows, sprinkle them on top of the casserole after baking for 20 minutes to avoid burning.
Step 4: Bake the Casserole
- Bake the casserole for 25-30 minutes or until the topping is golden brown and the sweet potato filling is set.
- Let it cool slightly before serving.
Tips for the Best Old-Fashion Sweet Potato Casserole
- Choose the right sweet potatoes: Look for deep orange varieties like garnet or jewel yams for a naturally sweet and creamy texture.
- Don’t overcook the topping: Keep an eye on the casserole during the final minutes of baking to prevent the streusel or marshmallows from burning.
- Make it ahead: Prepare the sweet potato base and topping separately a day in advance. Assemble and bake just before serving.
- Adjust sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet dish, reduce the sugar in the sweet potato base or topping.
What to Serve with Old-Fashion Sweet Potato Casserole
An old-fashion sweet potato casserole is versatile and pairs wonderfully with a variety of dishes. Whether you’re planning a holiday feast or a cozy family dinner, here’s a detailed list of complementary dishes, desserts, and drinks to round out your meal.
Savory Side Dishes
Balance the sweetness of the casserole with these savory options:
- Roast Turkey: A classic Thanksgiving centerpiece that pairs perfectly with the creamy sweetness of the casserole.
- Honey-Glazed Ham: The savory-sweet glaze complements the flavors of the casserole seamlessly.
- Herbed Green Beans: Sautéed green beans with garlic and a hint of lemon add freshness to the table.
- Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes: For those who love potatoes, this cheesy and creamy dish adds an indulgent touch.
- Homemade Stuffing: A hearty and herby side dish that’s a must-have at holiday meals.
Complementary Desserts
End your meal on a sweet note with these dessert ideas:
- Pumpkin Pie: The warm spices in pumpkin pie mirror the cinnamon and nutmeg in the casserole, creating a cohesive flavor profile.
- Pecan Pie: If you love the pecan topping on your casserole, pecan pie is a perfect dessert to follow.
- Apple Crisp: A lighter dessert option with a sweet and tangy flavor that pairs beautifully with the richness of the casserole.
- Chocolate Mousse: A creamy and airy dessert that adds a touch of decadence without being too heavy.
- Cranberry Sorbet: A refreshing and tangy choice to cleanse the palate after a hearty meal.
Drinks to Pair with Sweet Potato Casserole
Drinks can elevate your meal by enhancing the flavors of the casserole and the accompanying dishes. Consider these options:
Non-Alcoholic:
- Spiced Apple Cider: A warm, cozy drink with cinnamon and cloves that complements the casserole’s flavors.
- Cranberry Punch: A tangy and refreshing option that contrasts nicely with the dish’s sweetness.
- Sweet Tea: A Southern classic that pairs well with sweet and savory dishes alike.
Alcoholic:
- Chardonnay: A lightly oaked Chardonnay pairs beautifully with the buttery, nutty flavors of the casserole.
- Mulled Wine: A spiced, warm wine that echoes the holiday feel of the dish.
- Maple Old Fashioned: A bourbon-based cocktail with maple syrup that ties in with the casserole’s sweetness.
- Pumpkin Ale: For beer lovers, a pumpkin ale with spices can be a seasonal treat.
Bread Options
Serve some bread on the side to balance the textures of the meal:
- Homemade Cornbread: Soft and slightly sweet, perfect for pairing with the casserole.
- Dinner Rolls: Classic fluffy rolls for soaking up every last bite.
- Sourdough Bread: The tangy flavor of sourdough cuts through the richness of the sweet potato casserole.
With these complementary dishes, desserts, and drinks, your table will have a harmonious mix of flavors, ensuring your old-fashion sweet potato casserole truly shines!
Variations of Old-Fashion Sweet Potato Casserole
Healthy Version:
- Substitute the sugar with honey or maple syrup.
- Use almond milk or oat milk for a dairy-free option.
Nut-Free Topping:
- Replace pecans with crushed graham crackers or oats for a nut-free alternative.
Savory Twist:
- Skip the sugar in the sweet potato base and add a pinch of cayenne pepper and grated Parmesan for a savory version.
Vegan Option:
- Replace eggs with flaxseed eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed + 3 tablespoons water = 1 egg).
- Use plant-based butter or coconut oil.
FAQs While Making Old-Fashion Sweet Potato Casserole
Can I use canned sweet potatoes?
Yes, canned sweet potatoes (drained and mashed) work well in this recipe. However, fresh sweet potatoes offer better flavor and texture.
How do I prevent the topping from burning?
Cover the casserole with foil halfway through baking if the topping starts to brown too quickly.
Can I freeze the casserole?
Yes, you can freeze it before or after baking. For unbaked casserole, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking. For baked casserole, reheat it covered at 350°F until warmed through.
How long does sweet potato casserole last?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Can I make this casserole without a topping?
Absolutely! If you prefer a simpler version, you can skip the pecan streusel or marshmallow topping. The sweet potato base itself is rich and flavorful enough to stand alone.
How do I know when the casserole is done?
The casserole is ready when the edges are set and slightly puffed, and the topping is golden brown. You can also insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out mostly clean.
Can I use other nuts instead of pecans?
Yes, walnuts or almonds are great alternatives to pecans. They provide a similar crunch and nutty flavor.
What’s the best way to reheat sweet potato casserole?
To reheat, cover the casserole with aluminum foil and warm it in a 350°F oven for 15-20 minutes. For smaller portions, microwave on medium power in 30-second increments until heated through.
Substitutes for Key Ingredients
- Milk: Use cream, evaporated milk, or a dairy-free alternative like almond or coconut milk.
- Eggs: Replace with flax eggs or a mashed banana for a vegan option.
- Butter: Substitute with plant-based butter, ghee, or coconut oil.
- Brown Sugar: Swap for coconut sugar or maple syrup.
Nutrition of Old-Fashion Sweet Potato Casserole
Here’s an approximate nutritional breakdown per serving (serves 8):
- Calories: 310
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Protein: 4g
- Fat: 12g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sugar: 25g
Note: Nutrition values vary based on ingredients and serving size.
With this guide, you’ll master how to make old-fashion sweet potato casserole that’s sure to delight family and friends. Try it out, and let us know how it turns out!
