Tired of the same old Thanksgiving sides? This Pineapple Sweet Potato Casserole is here to revolutionize your holiday table (and any other night of the week!). Forget bland, mushy sweet potatoes; this recipe delivers a vibrant, sweet and tangy twist that's both incredibly delicious and surprisingly easy to make. It's the perfect blend of comfort food and exciting flavor, making it a guaranteed hit with everyone from picky eaters to seasoned gourmands. Get ready to experience a new favorite!
Ingredients:
- 3 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 1 (20 ounce) can crushed pineapple, drained
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/4 cup butter, melted
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/2 cup toasted pecans or walnuts (optional)
Instructions:
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Prep the Sweet Potatoes: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Boil or steam the cubed sweet potatoes until tender, about 15-20 minutes. You can also microwave them for quicker cooking—just be sure they're completely soft. Drain well.
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Mash and Mix: Once the sweet potatoes are cool enough to handle, mash them thoroughly. You can use a potato masher, a fork, or even an electric mixer for a smoother consistency.
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Incorporate the Sweetness and Spices: Add the drained crushed pineapple, brown sugar, melted butter, eggs, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves to the mashed sweet potatoes. Mix everything together until well combined. The mixture should be smooth and creamy.
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Optional Nutty Crunch: If using, gently fold in the toasted pecans or walnuts for added texture and flavor.
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Bake to Perfection: Pour the sweet potato mixture into a greased 8x8 inch baking dish. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the casserole is heated through and the top is lightly browned.
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Cool and Serve: Let the casserole cool slightly before serving. This allows the flavors to meld and makes it easier to cut into neat portions.
Tips for Pineapple Sweet Potato Casserole Success:
- Don't over-bake: Overbaking can result in a dry casserole. Start checking for doneness around the 30-minute mark.
- Spice it up: Feel free to adjust the spices to your liking. A dash of ginger or allspice would also complement the pineapple beautifully.
- Make it ahead: This casserole can be prepared a day in advance and refrigerated. Simply add 10-15 minutes to the baking time when reheating.
- Topping variations: Instead of nuts, consider topping with a streusel topping or a crumble made from oats and brown sugar.
Variations:
- Coconut Pineapple: Add 1/2 cup shredded coconut for a tropical twist.
- Spiced Rum: For adults, add 1-2 tablespoons of spiced rum to the mixture for a warm, boozy kick. (Always drink responsibly.)
- Ginger Zing: Incorporate 1 tablespoon of grated fresh ginger for a spicy and aromatic flavor.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 250-300
- Carbohydrates: 40-50g
- Protein: 4-5g
- Fat: 8-10g
This Pineapple Sweet Potato Casserole is more than just a side dish; it's a delicious and easy recipe that elevates any meal. It's a perfect addition to holiday feasts, potlucks, or a simple weeknight dinner. The sweet and savory combination is sure to impress your family and friends, and the ease of preparation makes it ideal for even the busiest cooks. Enjoy!