Looking for a delicious and heartwarming dish that brings comfort to your table without breaking the bank? This easy Sweet Potato Casserole is your answer! Layered with creamy, sweet spuds and topped with a crunchy pecan streusel, it’s perfect for family gatherings or a cozy weeknight dinner. Trust me; it’s not just food; it’s a hug on a plate!
Budget Information
This Sweet Potato Casserole recipe comes together for about $10.00, which breaks down to approximately $2.50 per serving (serves four). You’ll find that these flavors don’t just bring joy to your palate; they’re easy on your wallet, too!
Why This Recipe Works
This Sweet Potato Casserole strikes the perfect balance between health and indulgence. The natural sweetness of the potatoes shines through, while the pecan topping adds a delightful crunch that brings out the warm, earthy flavors. What’s more, it’s super easy to prepare, making it an ideal dish for busy weeknights or Thanksgiving feasts. Who wouldn’t want a little sweetness in their life?
Ingredients + Optional Substitutions
For this easy Sweet Potato Casserole, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 2 large sweet potatoes ($3.00)
- 1/4 cup brown sugar ($0.50)
- 1/4 cup milk (or almond milk for a dairy-free option) ($0.60)
- 2 tablespoons butter (or coconut oil for a vegan option) ($0.30)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract ($0.40)
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon ($0.10)
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg ($0.10)
- 1 cup pecans, chopped ($2.50)
- 1/4 cup flour (or almond flour for gluten-free) ($0.25)
- 1/4 cup melted butter (or a vegan alternative) ($0.30)
With these simple ingredients, you create magic! Feel free to get creative with spices or nuts based on what you’ve got at home!
Step-by-Step Recipe Instructions
Step 1: First, let’s peel and chop those sweet potatoes. Start by peeling the sweet potatoes and cutting them into large cubes. Don’t worry about cutting them perfectly; we want them to cook evenly but a little rustic charm is always welcome. Grab a big pot, place the sweet potato cubes inside, and cover them with water. Bring it to a boil over medium-high heat and let it simmer until fork-tender—around 15 to 20 minutes should do the trick.
Step 2: Once your sweet potatoes are delightful and soft, drain them and let them cool for just a moment. Then, in a large mixing bowl, mash them up using a potato masher or a fork until they’re smooth and creamy. You want a velvety texture that will make your heart sing! Now, add in the brown sugar, milk, melted butter, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Mix everything together until well combined and it’s smelling heavenly. Just wait, it gets better!
Step 3: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While that lovely aroma fills your kitchen, prepare your topping. In a separate bowl, mix together the chopped pecans, flour, and melted butter. Stir until the mixture resembles damp sand and those pecans are perfectly coated. Trust me; this topping is where the magic happens!
Step 4: Carefully transfer the mashed sweet potato mixture into a greased 9×9-inch baking dish (or an equivalent size). Spread it evenly to ensure a delicious slice for everyone. Now, sprinkle that glorious pecan topping generously over the sweet potatoes. Get ready for some crunch!
Step 5: Pop your casserole into the oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and your home is filled with an irresistible scent. Once it’s done, let it cool for a few minutes before diving in; it’ll be worth the wait!
Nutritional Facts
- Calories: 300
- Protein: 5g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Total Fats: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Fiber: 7g
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 150mg
Storage and Reheating Tips
If you happen to have leftovers (which is rare!), store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. When you’re ready to enjoy again, simply reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 15 minutes, or until warmed through. You can also pop a slice in the microwave for a quick fix. It’s like bringing back a piece of home-cooked happiness!
Serving Suggestions
This Sweet Potato Casserole shines wonderfully on its own, but it pairs beautifully with roasted chicken, turkey, or even a side of green beans for a complete meal. Consider serving it alongside a simple salad to balance out the rich flavors—your taste buds will thank you for it!
Reader Tips or Helpful Notes
Feeling adventurous? You can try adding mini marshmallows on top just before it finishes baking for that classic holiday flavor. Also, adjust the sweetness according to your taste; some prefer a little more sugar while others enjoy the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes. Be fearless in your cooking!
Recipe FAQs
Q: Can I use regular potatoes instead of sweet potatoes?
A: You can, but sweet potatoes really add that unique flavor and sweetness that makes this casserole special!
Q: Is there a gluten-free option for the flour?
A: Absolutely! Just swap it out for almond flour or any gluten-free blend you prefer. It works beautifully!
Q: How can I make this casserole vegan?
A: Easy! Use plant-based milk and coconut oil in place of butter. It’s just as delicious!
Q: Can I freeze the casserole?
A: Yes, indeed! Just prepare it up until baking, cover it well, and freeze. When ready, thaw in the fridge overnight before baking.
Q: How long will this last in the refrigerator?
A: If stored correctly, it should stay good for about 4 days. The flavors may even deepen over time!
