Are you craving that creamy, dreamy sweet potato casserole you always enjoy at Golden Corral? Well, you're in luck! This recipe recreates that beloved side dish, bringing the comforting flavors of fall right to your own kitchen. It's surprisingly easy to make, perfect for busy weeknights, holiday gatherings, or simply satisfying a sweet potato craving. Get ready to experience homemade comfort food at its finest! This recipe is a fantastic addition to your collection of easy recipes and healthy meals.
Ingredients:
- 3 large sweet potatoes (about 2 pounds), peeled and cubed
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup packed light brown sugar
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
- Pinch of salt
- For the Topping:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, cold and cut into small pieces
Instructions:
Step 1: Cooking the Sweet Potatoes
Boil or steam the cubed sweet potatoes until tender, about 15-20 minutes. You can easily check for doneness with a fork; it should pierce easily. Once cooked, drain well and let them cool slightly.
Step 2: Making the Sweet Potato Mixture
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large bowl, mash the cooked sweet potatoes until smooth. Stir in the melted butter, brown sugar, granulated sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and salt. Mix until well combined and creamy.
Step 3: Preparing the Topping
In a separate bowl, combine the flour, brown sugar, and pecans (if using). Cut in the cold butter using a pastry blender or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
Step 4: Assembling and Baking the Casserole
Pour the sweet potato mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish. Sprinkle the topping evenly over the sweet potato mixture.
Step 5: Baking to Perfection
Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the casserole is bubbly. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving. This delicious side dish is perfect for your next quick dinner.
Tips for Sweet Potato Casserole Success:
- Don't overcook the sweet potatoes: Overcooked sweet potatoes will become mushy, affecting the casserole's texture.
- Use fresh spices: Freshly ground cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves will enhance the flavor significantly.
- Adjust sweetness to your liking: If you prefer a less sweet casserole, reduce the amount of sugar.
- Make it ahead: You can assemble the casserole ahead of time and bake it just before serving. Store it covered in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Variations:
- Marshmallow topping: For a classic touch, top the casserole with mini marshmallows during the last 5-7 minutes of baking.
- Different nuts: Try using other nuts like walnuts, pecans, or even macadamia nuts in the topping.
- Spiced it up: Add a pinch of ginger or cardamom to the sweet potato mixture for a warm, spicy kick.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
Calories: Approximately 300-350 Fat: 15-20g Carbohydrates: 40-50g Protein: 4-5g
This homemade cooking recipe delivers a delightful and easy-to-make sweet potato casserole, a delicious dish perfect for any occasion. Enjoy! This recipe is one of the best recipes for those seeking both delicious and healthy meals. It's a great quick dinner idea too!