**The Best Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe with Pecans for a Perfect Holiday Feast**
When it comes to holiday feasts, one dish that stands out and brings a sense of warmth and comfort to the table is the sweet potato casserole recipe with pe……
When it comes to holiday feasts, one dish that stands out and brings a sense of warmth and comfort to the table is the sweet potato casserole recipe with pecans. This classic dish combines the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with the crunchy texture of pecans, creating a symphony of flavors that is both satisfying and indulgent. In this detailed guide, we will walk you through the steps to create the best sweet potato casserole recipe with pecans, ensuring that your holiday feast is nothing short of perfect.
### Ingredients
To create a delicious sweet potato casserole recipe with pecans, you will need the following ingredients:
- 4 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
For the pecan topping:
- 1 cup chopped pecans
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
### Instructions
#### Preparing the Sweet Potatoes
1. **Boil the Sweet Potatoes**: Start by placing the peeled and cubed sweet potatoes in a large pot. Fill the pot with water until the sweet potatoes are fully submerged. Bring the water to a boil and cook the sweet potatoes for about 15-20 minutes, or until they are tender and can be easily pierced with a fork.
2. **Mash the Sweet Potatoes**: Drain the cooked sweet potatoes and transfer them to a large mixing bowl. Use a potato masher or an electric mixer to mash the sweet potatoes until they are smooth and free of lumps.
#### Creating the Sweet Potato Mixture
3. **Combine Ingredients**: Add the granulated sugar, beaten eggs, melted butter, whole milk, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and salt to the mashed sweet potatoes. Mix until all the ingredients are well combined, creating a creamy and smooth sweet potato mixture.
4. **Transfer to Baking Dish**: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray. Pour the sweet potato mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
#### Making the Pecan Topping
5. **Mix the Topping Ingredients**: In a separate bowl, combine the chopped pecans, brown sugar, all-purpose flour, and melted butter. Stir until the mixture is well combined and has a crumbly texture.
6. **Add the Topping**: Evenly sprinkle the pecan topping over the sweet potato mixture in the baking dish. Make sure the entire surface is covered with the pecan topping for a delightful crunch in every bite.
#### Baking the Casserole
7. **Bake**: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the casserole is heated through. The aroma of the sweet potatoes and pecans will fill your kitchen, signaling that your sweet potato casserole recipe with pecans is ready.
8. **Serve**: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. This dish can be served warm and is perfect as a side dish for your holiday meal.
### Tips for the Perfect Sweet Potato Casserole
- **Consistency**: Ensure that the sweet potato mixture is smooth and free of lumps for the best texture.
- **Pecan Topping**: If you prefer a sweeter topping, you can add an extra 1/4 cup of brown sugar.
- **Make-Ahead**: This casserole can be prepared a day in advance. Simply cover and refrigerate after adding the pecan topping. On the day of serving, bake as directed.
### Conclusion
This sweet potato casserole recipe with pecans is a timeless classic that brings together the rich flavors of sweet potatoes and the nutty crunch of pecans. It's a dish that not only complements your holiday feast but also stands out as a memorable and delicious creation. Whether you are a seasoned cook or a beginner, this recipe is straightforward and guarantees a delightful outcome. Enjoy the warmth and comfort of this dish, and make it a staple at your holiday gatherings for years to come.