Save A comforting, sweet&savory casserole featuring creamy sweet potatoes, a hint of maple syrup, and a crunchy pecan topping&perfect for festive gatherings or cozy family dinners.
This dish became a family favorite after I first served it at Thanksgiving. The sweet aroma and warm maple notes always draw everyone to the table.
Ingredients
- Sweet Potato Base: 4 large sweet potatoes (about 1.6 kg (3.5 lbs)), peeled and cubed
- Unsalted butter: 60 ml (1/4 cup), melted
- Pure maple syrup: 80 ml (1/3 cup)
- Whole milk (or dairy-free alternative): 60 ml (1/4 cup)
- Eggs: 2 large
- Vanilla extract: 1 tsp
- Ground cinnamon: 1/2 tsp
- Ground nutmeg: 1/4 tsp
- Salt: 1/2 tsp
- Pecan Topping: 80 g (2/3 cup) all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour blend)
- Light brown sugar, packed: 100 g (1/2 cup)
- Unsalted butter: 60 g (1/4 cup), melted
- Pecan halves or coarsely chopped pecans: 120 g (1 cup)
- Pure maple syrup: 2 tbsp
- Ground cinnamon: 1/4 tsp
- Salt: Pinch
Instructions
- Prepare the oven and dish:
- Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). Lightly grease a 23x33 cm (9x13-inch) baking dish.
- Boil sweet potatoes:
- Place sweet potato cubes in a large pot, cover with water, and bring to a boil. Cook until fork-tender about 12–15 minutes. Drain well.
- Mash and mix base:
- In a large bowl, mash the sweet potatoes until smooth. Stir in melted butter, maple syrup, milk, eggs, vanilla, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Mix until fully combined and creamy.
- Base in baking dish:
- Spread sweet potato mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish.
- Make pecan topping:
- In a separate bowl, combine flour, brown sugar, melted butter, pecans, maple syrup, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. Mix until a crumbly topping forms.
- Top and bake:
- Sprinkle pecan topping evenly over sweet potato base.
- Bake and serve:
- Bake for 35–40 minutes, until topping is golden brown and filling set. Let cool for 10 minutes before serving.
Save Serving this casserole always sparks smiles at family dinners. We love how each bite combines creamy, sweet flavors with nutty crunch.
Required Tools
Large saucepan, potato masher or mixer, large mixing bowls, 23x33 cm (9x13-inch) baking dish, measuring cups and spoons, spatula or spoon.
Allergen Information
Contains milk (butter, milk), eggs, tree nuts (pecans), gluten (wheat flour). For gluten-free, use certified GF flour blend and always check ingredient labels.
Nutritional Information
Per serving: Calories 320, Total Fat 15 g, Carbohydrates 44 g, Protein 4 g.
Save A sprinkle of fresh chopped pecans before serving adds extra crunch and makes this dish the star of any holiday table.
Cooking Questions
- → Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Yes, simply swap the all-purpose flour in the topping for your favorite gluten-free blend to suit dietary needs.
- → Is it possible to prepare ahead?
You can assemble the dish a day before, refrigerate, and bake just before serving to save time.
- → How do I make it vegan?
Use plant-based butter, dairy-free milk, and replace eggs with flax eggs for a completely plant-based option.
- → Can I adjust the sweetness?
Reduce the amount of maple syrup or brown sugar to achieve your desired level of sweetness.
- → What can I serve this with?
This dish pairs well with roasted turkey, ham, or other classic savory mains on festive tables.