Introduction
Sweet Potato Casserole is a delightful dish that brings comfort and warmth, making it a perfect addition to any family meal or holiday gathering. This recipe from Love and Lemons features creamy sweet potatoes topped with a crunchy, flavorful crumble. It’s vegan-friendly and packed with delicious ingredients that everyone will enjoy.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
For the sweet potatoes:
– 5 large sweet potatoes (approximately 3 pounds)
– 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil or melted butter, plus more for drizzling
– 1¼ cups milk (any kind)
– 1 teaspoon ground ginger
– ¾ teaspoon sea salt
– ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
– ¼ cup fresh sage leaves, for garnish
For the crumble topping:
– ⅔ cup whole rolled oats
– ½ cup pecans, plus more for garnish
– ½ cup walnuts, plus more for garnish
– 1 garlic clove
– 1 tablespoon plus 1 teaspoon maple syrup
– 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil or melted butter
– ½ teaspoon dried thyme leaves
– ½ teaspoon minced fresh rosemary
– 1½ teaspoons sea salt
– ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
Prep Time
30 minutes
Cook Time
60 minutes
Total Time
1 hour 30 minutes
Yield
Serves 8
Instructions
1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (218°C). Line a baking sheet with foil and brush a 9×13-inch baking dish with olive oil.
2. Prepare the sweet potatoes: Use a fork to poke a few holes into each sweet potato. Place them on the prepared baking sheet and roast until very tender, about 60 minutes.
3. Make the crumble topping: In a food processor, combine the oats, pecans, walnuts, garlic, maple syrup, olive oil, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Pulse until just combined; the mixture should clump slightly but still have texture. Set aside.
4. Prepare the sweet potato filling: Once the sweet potatoes are cool enough to handle, scoop the flesh out of the skins and place it in a food processor. Add the olive oil, milk, ground ginger, salt, and pepper. Process until smooth and creamy.
5. Assemble the casserole: Spread the sweet potato mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the crumble topping over the sweet potatoes. Garnish with additional pecans and fresh sage leaves. Drizzle with a bit of olive oil.
6. Bake: Place the assembled casserole in the oven and bake for 20 minutes, or until the topping is browned and crisp.
Enjoy your delicious Sweet Potato Casserole!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat the oven to 425°F (218°C). Line a baking sheet with foil and brush a 9×13-inch baking dish with olive oil.
Step 2: Prepare the Sweet Potatoes
Use a fork to poke a few holes into each sweet potato. Place them on the prepared baking sheet and roast until very tender, about 60 minutes.
Step 3: Make the Crumble Topping
In a food processor, combine the oats, pecans, walnuts, garlic, maple syrup, olive oil, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Pulse until just combined; the mixture should clump slightly but still have texture. Set aside.
Step 4: Prepare the Sweet Potato Filling
Once the sweet potatoes are cool enough to handle, scoop the flesh out of the skins and place it in a food processor. Add the olive oil, milk, ground ginger, salt, and pepper. Process until smooth and creamy.
Step 5: Assemble the Casserole
Spread the sweet potato mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the crumble topping over the sweet potatoes. Garnish with additional pecans and fresh sage leaves. Drizzle with a bit of olive oil.
Step 6: Bake
Place the assembled casserole in the oven and bake for 20 minutes, or until the topping is browned and crisp.
Notes
Note 1
Ensure the sweet potatoes are fully roasted before proceeding to the next steps for the best texture and flavor.
Note 2
Feel free to adjust the amount of maple syrup in the crumble topping according to your sweetness preference.
Note 3
You can substitute the nuts in the crumble topping with other types if preferred, such as almonds or sunflower seeds for a different taste.
Note 4
This casserole can be assembled ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator before baking. Just extend the baking time if baking straight from the fridge.
Cook techniques
Roasting Sweet Potatoes
Poking holes in sweet potatoes before roasting allows steam to escape, ensuring even cooking. Roast them until very tender for the best texture.
Making a Crumble Topping
Using a food processor to blend oats, nuts, garlic, and herbs creates a textured crumble topping. Pulse until just combined for a perfect balance of crunch and flavor.
Preparing Sweet Potato Filling
Scooping the flesh out of roasted sweet potatoes and combining it with olive oil and milk creates a smooth, creamy filling that serves as the base of the casserole.
Assembling the Casserole
Layering the sweet potato mixture and topping in a baking dish ensures that every bite is flavorful. Garnishing with pecans and sage adds visual appeal and extra taste.
Baking the Casserole
Baking the assembled casserole until the topping is browned and crisp enhances the flavors, creating a delicious contrast with the soft sweet potato filling.
FAQ
Can I use other types of potatoes?
Yes, you can substitute regular potatoes or other root vegetables, but note that the flavor and texture will differ.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the sweet potato filling and the crumble topping separately, then assemble and bake when ready to serve.
What can I use as a substitute for nuts in the topping?
You can use seeds, such as pumpkin or sunflower seeds, if you want to keep it nut-free.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the oven for best results.
Can this be frozen?
Yes, you can freeze the assembled casserole. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking it.
Conclusion
This Sweet Potato Casserole is a delightful blend of flavors and textures, combining creamy sweet potatoes with a crunchy, nutty topping. It makes for a perfect side dish for gatherings or a comforting meal at home. The addition of fresh herbs and spices elevates the taste, making it both nutritious and indulgent. Enjoy this casserole as a staple in your recipe collection, perfect for any occasion.
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