#Maple Pecan Sweet Potato Casserole
##Introduction
Welcome to our delightful recipe for Maple Pecan Sweet Potato Casserole. A delightful blend of sweet potatoes, maple syrup and crunchy pecans, this dish is a star at any dinner and a winning choice for your palate.
##Why Make This Recipe
Consider this recipe when you want a comforting, heart-warming dish that additionally doubles as a show stopper at parties and holiday dinners. The sweet and savory combination of the dish is irresistible and will leave your guests asking for more.
##How to Make Maple Pecan Sweet Potato Casserole
##Ingredients
– 4 cups mashed sweet potatoes
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1/4 cup butter, melted
– 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/4 tsp nutmeg
– 1/4 tsp salt
Topping:
– 1 cup pecan halves
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup butter, melted
– 2 tbsp pure maple syrup
##Directions
1. Heat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
2. In a large bowl, mix together mashed sweet potatoes, milk, melted butter, maple syrup, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until the mixture becomes smooth and combines well.
3. Spread the sweet potato mixture evenly into the greased baking dish.
4. Combine pecans, flour, brown sugar, melted butter, and maple syrup in a medium mixing bowl until they are well combined.
5. Sprinkle the pecan mixture over the sweet potato mixture.
6. Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes or until the topping turns golden brown and the casserole is thoroughly heated.
7. Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before serving.
##How to Serve Maple Pecan Sweet Potato Casserole
Serve the casserole warm. It pairs excellently as a side dish with roast meats or it stands perfectly on its own as a main dish for vegetarians during holiday dinners.
##How to Store Maple Pecan Sweet Potato Casserole
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container and kept in the refrigerator for up to four days.
##Tips to Make Maple Pecan Sweet Potato Casserole
Ensure the sweet potato mixture is smooth before baking, to ensure an even texture in every bite. Also, remember not to overcook the topping; it should be golden not dark brown.
##Variations
You can experiment by adding marshmallows in the topping for a sweeter twist or throw in some spices like clove or allspice to give it additional warmth.
##FAQs
###Can I use yams instead of sweet potatoes?
Yes, yams can be a suitable substitute for sweet potatoes but keep in mind their texture might be a bit different.
###Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare and assemble the casserole a day in advance and then bake it before serving.
###Can I freeze this casserole?
We recommend freezing the sweet potato base and pecan topping separately. Defrost and reheat in the oven when ready to serve.
##Conclusion
Your comforting, delicious Maple Pecan Sweet Potato Casserole is ready to enjoy and share. This cozy casserole with its sweet and nutty notes is the ultimate heart-warming dish for any gathering. Happy cooking!