Southern Maple Sweet Potato Casserole
If you’re looking for a dish that brings warmth and joy to your table, look no further than this Southern Maple Sweet Potato Casserole! This recipe has been a cherished part of my family gatherings for years, filling the air with sweet, comforting aromas that remind me of home. Whether it’s Thanksgiving or just a cozy weeknight dinner, this casserole is sure to please everyone at the table.
What makes this dish so special? It perfectly balances the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with rich maple syrup and crunchy pecans. Plus, it’s simple to prepare, making it ideal for busy days when you want to whip up something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, you can whip this casserole together in no time.
- Family-Friendly: Everyone loves the combination of sweet potatoes and marshmallows!
- Make-Ahead Option: Prepare it in advance and simply pop it in the oven when you’re ready.
- Deliciously Sweet: The blend of brown sugar and maple syrup creates an irresistible flavor.
- Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with wholesome ingredients, it’s a guilt-free indulgence.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering your ingredients for this Southern Maple Sweet Potato Casserole is a breeze! You’ll find that these are simple, wholesome items that you might already have in your pantry or easily find at your local grocery store.
For the Casserole
- 4 large organic sweet potatoes, peeled + cubed
- 2-3 Tbsps extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1/2 cup almond milk (or your favorite plant-based milk)
- 2 tsps vanilla extract
- 4 Tbsps unsalted butter, cubed into small pieces
- 1/3 cup organic brown sugar
- 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
For the Topping
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/8 tsp ground nutmeg
- Pinch of ground allspice
- 1 cup organic raisins, soaked + drained (see notes!)
- 2 cups vegan marshmallows
- 1 1/2 cups raw pecans
- 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
Variations
This Southern Maple Sweet Potato Casserole is quite flexible! Here are some fun variations you can try:
- Add Extra Crunch: Toss in some chopped walnuts or hazelnuts for a different nutty flavor.
- Spice It Up: Mix in a bit of cayenne pepper or chili powder for some unexpected heat.
- Fruit Twist: Incorporate diced apples or pears for added sweetness and texture.
- Herb Infusion: Add fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme for a savory twist on this classic dish.
How to Make Southern Maple Sweet Potato Casserole
Step 1: Prepare the Sweet Potatoes
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it warms up, peel and cube those sweet potatoes. Boiling them until tender helps bring out their natural sweetness. This step is key because tender sweet potatoes will mash beautifully, creating that creamy base we all adore!
Step 2: Mash the Sweet Potatoes
Once cooked, drain the sweet potatoes and return them to the pot. Add olive oil, almond milk, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and nutmeg. Mash everything together until smooth. This creamy mixture will be the heart of your casserole!
Step 3: Combine with Sugar and Raisins
In a large bowl, mix the mashed sweet potato mixture with brown sugar and soaked raisins. The sweetness from both will make each bite delightful! Plus, soaking the raisins plumps them up nicely, ensuring they’re juicy when baked.
Step 4: Assemble Your Casserole
Transfer the mixture into a greased baking dish. Dot with cubed butter across the top. Then drizzle maple syrup over everything—this adds that lovely caramelization as it bakes!
Step 5: Prepare the Topping
In a separate bowl, combine vegan marshmallows, pecans, and additional spices. Spread this topping evenly over your casserole. It’s going to create a crunchy layer that contrasts beautifully with the smooth sweet potato underneath.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Bake your casserole uncovered for about 90 minutes or until golden brown on top. The smell wafting through your kitchen will be heavenly! Allow it to cool slightly before serving so those flavors can settle.
And there you have it! A scrumptious Southern Maple Sweet Potato Casserole that’s perfect for any occasion—your guests will be asking for seconds!
Pro Tips for Making Southern Maple Sweet Potato Casserole
Making a delicious Southern Maple Sweet Potato Casserole is all about the little details that elevate its flavor and texture!
- Use fresh sweet potatoes – Fresh, organic sweet potatoes tend to be sweeter and creamier, providing a delightful base for your casserole.
- Soak the raisins – This step plumps the raisins and enhances their sweetness, which adds a lovely burst of flavor in every bite.
- Experiment with nut milk – Almond milk is a great choice, but feel free to try other plant-based milks like oat or cashew for different flavor profiles.
- Don’t skip the spices – The combination of cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice will infuse your casserole with warmth and depth—perfect for cozy gatherings!
- Top it right – A generous layer of vegan marshmallows and pecans not only provides a beautiful presentation but also adds a delightful crunch and sweetness.
How to Serve Southern Maple Sweet Potato Casserole
Presenting your Southern Maple Sweet Potato Casserole can be just as fun as making it! Here are some ideas to make it shine on your holiday table.
Garnishes
- Chopped fresh herbs – Sprinkling some chopped parsley or thyme on top can add a pop of color and freshness.
- Cinnamon sprinkle – A light dusting of ground cinnamon before serving enhances the warm spice aroma.
Side Dishes
- Green Bean Almondine – Crisp-tender green beans sautéed with almonds offer a crunchy contrast to the soft casserole.
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes – Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic provide comfort alongside the sweetness of the casserole.
- Roasted Brussels Sprouts – These earthy veggies bring a nice balance to the dish with their slightly bitter flavor, complementing the sweet potatoes beautifully.
- Quinoa Salad with Cranberries – A refreshing salad packed with protein; the tart cranberries will harmonize perfectly with the sweetness of your casserole.
This Southern Maple Sweet Potato Casserole is sure to impress your friends and family at any gathering. Happy cooking!
Make Ahead and Storage
This Southern Maple Sweet Potato Casserole is perfect for meal prep, making it an ideal addition to your holiday gatherings or weeknight dinners. You can prepare it in advance to save time and ensure that you have a delicious side dish ready to go!
Storing Leftovers
- Allow the casserole to cool completely before storing.
- Transfer leftovers into an airtight container.
- Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing
- Wrap the cooled casserole tightly with plastic wrap, then cover with aluminum foil.
- Label the container with the date and store in the freezer for up to 2 months.
- For best results, freeze before baking if possible.
Reheating
- Thaw frozen casserole in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Bake covered for about 30 minutes, then uncover and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until heated through.
FAQs
Have questions about making this delightful dish? Here are some common queries!
Can I use other types of milk for Southern Maple Sweet Potato Casserole?
Absolutely! While almond milk is a great choice, you can substitute it with any plant-based milk or whole milk based on your preference.
What can I use instead of vegan marshmallows in Southern Maple Sweet Potato Casserole?
If you’re looking for an alternative, consider using a homemade marshmallow fluff made from aquafaba or simply omit them altogether. The casserole will still be wonderful without them!
How do I know when my Southern Maple Sweet Potato Casserole is done?
Your casserole should be bubbly around the edges and have a slightly golden top. A fork inserted into the center should easily pierce through without resistance.
Can I make Southern Maple Sweet Potato Casserole ahead of time?
Yes! This casserole can be prepared a day in advance. Just refrigerate it unbaked, then pop it in the oven when you’re ready to serve.
Final Thoughts
I truly hope you enjoy making this Southern Maple Sweet Potato Casserole as much as I do! It’s not just a side dish; it’s a warm hug on your plate that brings comfort and joy to any table. Perfect for holidays or family gatherings, this recipe is sure to impress your loved ones. Get those sweet potatoes ready and let’s create something special together!
Southern Maple Sweet Potato Casserole
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 90 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 50 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 8
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Southern
Description
Indulge in the warm, comforting flavors of Southern Maple Sweet Potato Casserole, a beloved dish that’s perfect for any gathering. This delightful casserole combines the natural sweetness of tender sweet potatoes with rich maple syrup and a crunchy pecan topping, making it an irresistible side dish that everyone will love. Whether you’re celebrating a holiday or enjoying a cozy weeknight dinner, this easy-to-make recipe will fill your home with delightful aromas and create lasting memories at the table.
Ingredients
- 4 large organic sweet potatoes
- 2–3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1/2 cup almond milk
- 2 tsps vanilla extract
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, cubed into small pieces
- 1/3 cup organic brown sugar
- 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/8 tsp ground nutmeg
- Pinch of ground allspice
- 1 cup organic raisins, soaked + drained
- 2 cups vegan marshmallows
- 1 1/2 cups raw pecans
- 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Peel and cube sweet potatoes, then boil until tender.
- Drain and mash sweet potatoes with olive oil, almond milk, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and nutmeg until smooth.
- Mix in brown sugar and soaked raisins.
- Transfer to a greased baking dish, dot with butter, and drizzle with maple syrup.
- In another bowl, combine vegan marshmallows, pecans, and spices; spread over the top of the casserole.
- Bake uncovered for about 90 minutes or until golden brown.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (210g)
- Calories: 260
- Sugar: 21g
- Sodium: 85mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 39g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
