Old Fashioned Sweet Potato Casserole

Old fashioned sweet potato casserole is a classic comfort dish that brings warmth and nostalgia to any gathering. This delicious recipe, made with tender sweet potatoes, brown sugar, and marshmallows, is the perfect side dish for Thanksgiving or any family meal. In this article, we’ll explore the ins and outs of making the best old fashioned sweet potato casserole that will leave your guests asking for more.

Why You Should Make an Old Fashioned Sweet Potato Casserole

Sweet potatoes are a nutritious and naturally sweet ingredient that pairs well with a variety of flavors. The traditional old fashioned sweet potato casserole combines the sweetness of the potatoes with crunchy pecans and gooey marshmallows for a dish that is both decadent and heartwarming. Plus, it’s surprisingly easy to make!

According to Healthline, sweet potatoes are rich in vitamins A and C, as well as fiber, which makes them a healthy addition to your diet. They are also incredibly versatile, able to be roasted, mashed, or baked in different ways. This versatility makes sweet potatoes the ideal base for a flavorful casserole that everyone loves. To make sure you’re using the right techniques and ingredients, check out Bon Appetit’s guide for some more helpful tips.

Let’s dive into the ingredients and steps needed to make this delicious old fashioned sweet potato casserole that will have everyone talking.

Ingredients for an Old Fashioned Sweet Potato Casserole

To make the perfect old fashioned sweet potato casserole, you’ll need a handful of simple ingredients that blend together beautifully. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 4 large sweet potatoes (peeled and cut into chunks)
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter (melted)
• 1/3 cup milk
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup mini marshmallows
• 1/2 cup chopped pecans

These ingredients are easily accessible, and they work together to give you that signature taste of old fashioned sweet potato casserole.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Sweet Potatoes

To start, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add the sweet potatoes and cook until they are tender, about 15-20 minutes. Once the sweet potatoes are tender, drain them well and place them in a large mixing bowl.

Step 2: Mash the Sweet Potatoes

Use a potato masher or electric mixer to mash the sweet potatoes until smooth. Add the granulated sugar, brown sugar, melted butter, milk, eggs, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Mix everything together until well combined. This mixture is the base for the old fashioned sweet potato casserole, giving it that perfect creamy texture.

Step 3: Assemble the Casserole

Pour the mashed sweet potato mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread it out evenly to create a smooth surface. Sprinkle the chopped pecans evenly over the top. The pecans add a delightful crunch that contrasts perfectly with the creaminess of the sweet potatoes.

Step 4: Add the Marshmallows

Scatter the mini marshmallows on top of the casserole. They will toast up beautifully in the oven, providing a sweet and gooey finish to the dish. If you prefer a less sweet version, you can reduce the amount of marshmallows or omit them entirely.

Step 5: Bake

Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the marshmallows are golden brown and the edges are bubbling. The marshmallows should be lightly toasted, giving the casserole an irresistible look and taste.

Tips for Making the Best Old Fashioned Sweet Potato Casserole

• Use Fresh Sweet Potatoes: Fresh sweet potatoes give the best flavor and texture. Avoid using canned sweet potatoes, as they can be too mushy.
• Don’t Overmix: When adding the eggs, mix just until combined. Overmixing can result in a less fluffy texture.
• Add a Streusel Topping: For added crunch, you can create a simple streusel topping with brown sugar, butter, and flour to sprinkle over the pecans before adding the marshmallows.
• Adjust Sweetness to Your Taste: If you prefer a less sweet casserole, reduce the amount of sugar or skip the marshmallows altogether.

Variations of Old Fashioned Sweet Potato Casserole

The old fashioned sweet potato casserole is versatile and can be customized to suit your preferences. Here are a few variations to try:

1. Pecan Streusel Topping

Instead of using marshmallows, you can make a streusel topping using:

• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1/2 cup flour
• 1/4 cup butter (softened)
• 1/2 cup chopped pecans

Mix these ingredients together until crumbly, and sprinkle over the sweet potatoes before baking. This creates a crunchy and sweet topping that pairs perfectly with the creamy sweet potatoes.

2. Healthier Version

For a healthier version, substitute the granulated sugar for maple syrup or honey. You can also replace the butter with coconut oil and use almond milk instead of regular milk. This version retains the delicious flavors of the old fashioned sweet potato casserole but with fewer calories.

3. Vegan Sweet Potato Casserole

To make a vegan version of this classic dish:

• Replace butter with vegan butter or coconut oil.
• Use almond milk or oat milk instead of regular milk.
• Substitute the eggs with a flax egg (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal mixed with 3 tablespoons water).
• Skip the marshmallows or use vegan marshmallows.

4. Savory Sweet Potato Casserole

For a savory twist on the classic recipe, skip the marshmallows and add savory ingredients such as:

• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary (chopped)
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

This variation balances the natural sweetness of the potatoes with a savory kick, making it an excellent side for any main dish.

Serving Suggestions

Old fashioned sweet potato casserole is the perfect side dish for holiday dinners, especially Thanksgiving. It pairs wonderfully with savory dishes like roast turkey, stuffing, and green beans. The sweetness of the casserole provides a nice contrast to the more savory items on the table, making it an essential part of any holiday feast.

You can also serve this casserole as a dessert if you add extra marshmallows or top it with a drizzle of caramel sauce. The possibilities are endless, and it’s guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser no matter how you serve it.

Nutritional Benefits of Sweet Potatoes

Sweet potatoes are more than just tasty—they’re also packed with nutrients that can benefit your health. Here are some of the key nutritional benefits:

• Rich in Vitamin A: Sweet potatoes are loaded with beta-carotene, which the body converts into vitamin A. This nutrient is essential for eye health, immune function, and skin health.
• High in Fiber: Sweet potatoes contain both soluble and insoluble fiber, which can aid in digestion and help maintain healthy blood sugar levels.
• Good Source of Antioxidants: The vibrant orange color of sweet potatoes is due to their high antioxidant content, which helps protect the body from oxidative stress and inflammation.
• Low Glycemic Index: Compared to regular potatoes, sweet potatoes have a lower glycemic index, meaning they cause a slower rise in blood sugar levels. This makes them a healthier choice for those looking to manage their blood sugar.

Adding old fashioned sweet potato casserole to your holiday menu not only satisfies your sweet cravings but also provides your body with essential vitamins and nutrients.

History of Sweet Potato Casserole

The origins of the old fashioned sweet potato casserole date back to early American history. Sweet potatoes were first cultivated in Central and South America and eventually made their way to North America, where they became a popular ingredient in Southern cuisine. The sweet potato casserole, as we know it today, gained widespread popularity in the early 20th century when marshmallows were first marketed as a fun and easy addition to baked dishes.

Over time, this dish evolved into a staple for holiday celebrations, particularly in the South. Today, old fashioned sweet potato casserole is enjoyed across the United States and is a beloved part of many Thanksgiving tables.

Tips for Perfecting Your Old Fashioned Sweet Potato Casserole

1. Choose the Right Sweet Potatoes

There are several varieties of sweet potatoes available, but for the best old fashioned sweet potato casserole, opt for orange-fleshed sweet potatoes like the Beauregard or Jewel variety. These types are sweeter and have a moist texture that works perfectly for casseroles.

2. Use Room Temperature Ingredients

When mixing the sweet potatoes with the other ingredients, make sure that the eggs, milk, and butter are at room temperature. This ensures that everything blends together smoothly, resulting in a better texture.

3. Avoid Overcooking the Sweet Potatoes

To keep the sweet potatoes from becoming too mushy, avoid overcooking them when boiling. You want them to be tender enough to mash, but not falling apart. This helps maintain a rich, creamy texture for the casserole.

4. Balance the Sweetness

One of the keys to a perfect old fashioned sweet potato casserole is balancing the sweetness. Sweet potatoes are already naturally sweet, so be mindful of how much additional sugar you add. Tasting the mixture before baking can help you determine if it needs more or less sweetness.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

One of the great things about old fashioned sweet potato casserole is that it can be made ahead of time, making holiday preparations much easier.

1. Make-Ahead Instructions

To prepare the casserole in advance, follow these steps:

• Assemble the casserole as directed, but do not add the marshmallows yet.
• Cover the dish with plastic wrap or foil and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
• When ready to bake, let the casserole come to room temperature, then add the marshmallows and bake as instructed.

2. Freezing the Casserole

You can also freeze old fashioned sweet potato casserole if needed. To freeze:

• Assemble the casserole without the marshmallows.
• Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.
• Freeze for up to 3 months.
• When ready to bake, thaw the casserole in the refrigerator overnight. Add the marshmallows before baking.

3. Reheating Instructions

To reheat the casserole, cover it with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. If the marshmallows start to brown too quickly, loosely tent the foil over the top to prevent burning.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the ingredients in Savannah Classics sweet potato casserole?

The Savannah Classics sweet potato casserole typically includes sweet potatoes, sugar, eggs, butter, milk, and various seasonings. It may also have a pecan or marshmallow topping for added texture and sweetness.

Is it better to boil or bake sweet potatoes for casserole?

Both methods work well, but boiling sweet potatoes is faster and keeps them moist, which is ideal for mashing. Baking, however, can enhance the natural sweetness of the potatoes. For old fashioned sweet potato casserole, boiling is often preferred to achieve a smooth texture.

Are candied yams and sweet potato casserole the same thing?

No, they are not the same. Candied yams are typically sliced sweet potatoes cooked in a sugary syrup, while sweet potato casserole is mashed and mixed with various ingredients like butter, eggs, and spices. Sweet potato casserole often has a topping, such as marshmallows or pecans, which makes it distinct from candied yams.

How can I make my sweet potato casserole less sweet?

To make your old fashioned sweet potato casserole less sweet, reduce the amount of sugar and marshmallows. You can also add a bit more salt to balance the sweetness or opt for a savory version with herbs and cheese.

Can I use canned sweet potatoes for this casserole?

Yes, you can use canned sweet potatoes if you’re short on time, but fresh sweet potatoes provide the best flavor and texture. If using canned, be sure to drain them well before mashing.

What dishes pair well with old fashioned sweet potato casserole?

This casserole pairs well with classic holiday dishes such as roasted turkey, ham, green bean casserole, and cranberry sauce. The sweetness of the dish also makes it a great complement to savory and salty foods, adding variety to the holiday table