Step 1: Prepare the Sweet Potatoes
Start by peeling and chopping the sweet potatoes into chunks. Place them in a large pot and cover with water. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat and cook for 15-20 minutes or until the potatoes are fork-tender.
Once cooked, drain the sweet potatoes and return them to the pot. Mash them until smooth. You can use a potato masher or a hand mixer for a creamier texture.
Step 2: Make the Casserole Base
In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed sweet potatoes with granulated sugar, eggs, milk, melted butter, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and a pinch of salt. Stir until all ingredients are fully incorporated and the mixture is smooth.
Transfer the sweet potato mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly with a spatula. Set aside while you prepare the topping.
Step 3: Prepare the Topping
In a separate bowl, combine the chopped pecans, brown sugar, flour, cinnamon, and softened butter. Use a fork or your fingers to mix the ingredients together until the mixture is crumbly and resembles coarse crumbs.
Evenly sprinkle the topping over the sweet potato mixture in the baking dish, ensuring it covers the entire surface.
Step 4: Bake the Casserole
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Once the oven is heated, place the casserole in the center of the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and crispy, and the casserole is heated through.
Check the casserole during baking to ensure the topping doesn’t burn. If necessary, cover the casserole with aluminum foil during the last 10 minutes of baking to prevent over-browning.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and allow it to cool slightly before serving. This sweet potato casserole pairs wonderfully with turkey, ham, or any Southern-style meal.
Serving and Storage
Paula Deen’s Southern-style sweet potato casserole is perfect for holiday meals, family dinners, or potlucks. It’s also great as a comforting side dish to enjoy on its own with a warm drink.
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until it’s heated through and the topping becomes slightly crisp again.
If you want to freeze the casserole, cover it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, allow it to thaw in the refrigerator overnight, and then bake as instructed above.
Tips
- Sweet Potato Prep: If you prefer a smoother texture, you can use a hand mixer or stand mixer to mash the sweet potatoes. This will give the casserole a creamier consistency.
- Adjust Sweetness: Feel free to adjust the amount of sugar based on your preference. If you like a sweeter casserole, add a bit more sugar or even a splash of maple syrup for extra depth.
- Topping Variations: You can substitute pecans with walnuts or even add some mini marshmallows to the topping for a fun twist.
- Make-Ahead: You can prepare the casserole the day before, refrigerate it, and bake it just before serving. This makes it perfect for holiday dinners or busy nights when you need a dish that’s ready to go!
- Adding Spices: For an added flavor boost, consider adding a touch of ground ginger, allspice, or even orange zest to the sweet potato mixture.
Conclusion
Paula Deen’s Southern-style sweet potato casserole is the epitome of Southern comfort food. It’s sweet, creamy, and topped with a crunchy, nutty layer that brings out the best in every bite. Whether you’re serving it as part of a holiday feast or as a side dish for a special dinner, this casserole is sure to impress your guests and become a favorite at the dinner table. With its warm, rich flavors and delightful texture, this recipe is an easy way to enjoy a classic Southern dish that’s perfect for any occasion.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can make Paula Deen’s sweet potato casserole a day ahead. Simply prepare the casserole, cover it with plastic wrap, and store it in the fridge. When you’re ready to bake it, preheat your oven and bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes of cooking time if necessary.
Can I use canned sweet potatoes for this recipe?
While fresh sweet potatoes are preferred for their flavor and texture, you can use canned sweet potatoes if you’re short on time. Just make sure to drain them well and mash them before proceeding with the recipe.
Can I make this casserole gluten-free?
Yes, to make this casserole gluten-free, simply substitute the all-purpose flour in the topping with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch. Be sure to check that all other ingredients are gluten-free as well.
Can I add marshmallows on top of the casserole?
Absolutely! Adding mini marshmallows on top of the casserole during the last 5 minutes of baking is a popular variation. The marshmallows will melt and become golden and slightly crispy, adding an extra layer of sweetness and texture.