Contents
Introduction
If you’re looking for a comforting and delicious side dish that captures the essence of fall, look no further than this Instant Pot Sweet Potato Casserole from Damn Delicious. This recipe combines the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with a rich pecan streusel topping and fluffy marshmallows, making it a perfect addition to any holiday table or family gathering. The use of the Instant Pot dramatically speeds up the cooking process, allowing you to enjoy this classic dish with less hassle.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
5 pounds sweet potatoes, peeled and chopped
1 cup water
¾ cup coarsely chopped pecans
10 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted and divided
¾ cup brown sugar, divided
½ cup plus 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
Kosher salt
2 large eggs, lightly beaten
⅓ cup whole milk
1 teaspoon orange zest
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
1 cup miniature marshmallows
Prep Time
20 minutes
Cook Time
8 minutes in the Instant Pot
Total Time
Approximately 1 hour (including baking)
Yield
12 servings
Instructions
1. Cook the Sweet Potatoes: Add the peeled and chopped sweet potatoes along with 1 cup of water to a 6-quart Instant Pot®. Select the manual setting, adjust the pressure to high, and set the time for 8 minutes. Once cooking is complete, perform a quick-release of the pressure according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
2. Prepare the Pecan Streusel Topping: In a medium bowl, combine ¾ cup coarsely chopped pecans, 5 tablespoons of melted unsalted butter, ¼ cup brown sugar, ½ cup plus 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour, and ½ teaspoon kosher salt. Mix until the ingredients are well combined. Place the mixture in the refrigerator to chill while preparing the sweet potato mixture.
3. Mash the Sweet Potatoes: After releasing the pressure, remove the sweet potatoes from the Instant Pot® and drain any excess liquid. Return the drained sweet potatoes to the pot. Using a potato masher, mash the sweet potatoes until smooth.
4. Combine the Sweet Potato Mixture: Stir in the remaining 5 tablespoons of melted unsalted butter, ½ cup brown sugar, 2 lightly beaten large eggs, ⅓ cup whole milk, 1 teaspoon orange zest, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon, and ¾ teaspoon kosher salt into the mashed sweet potatoes. Mix until all ingredients are thoroughly incorporated.
5. Assemble the Casserole: Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Lightly oil a 9 x 13-inch baking dish or coat it with nonstick spray. Spread the sweet potato mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the chilled pecan streusel topping evenly over the sweet potato mixture.
6. Bake the Casserole: Place the baking dish into the preheated oven and bake until the casserole is almost set, approximately 40 minutes. Remove the dish from the oven and sprinkle 1 cup of miniature marshmallows evenly over the top. Return the dish to the oven and continue to bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the marshmallows are golden brown.
7. Serve: Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and serve immediately.
This recipe allows for preparation ahead of time. You can cook the sweet potatoes in the Instant Pot® the night before, assemble the casserole in the baking dish, and refrigerate it overnight. Before baking, let the casserole sit at room temperature for about 15-30 minutes. Then, proceed with baking as directed.
Enjoy your delicious Instant Pot Sweet Potato Casserole!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Cook the Sweet Potatoes:
Add the peeled and chopped sweet potatoes along with 1 cup of water to a 6-quart Instant Pot®. Select the manual setting, adjust the pressure to high, and set the time for 8 minutes. Once cooking is complete, perform a quick-release of the pressure according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Prepare the Pecan Streusel Topping:
In a medium bowl, combine ¾ cup coarsely chopped pecans, 5 tablespoons of melted unsalted butter, ¼ cup brown sugar, ½ cup plus 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour, and ½ teaspoon kosher salt. Mix until the ingredients are well combined. Place the mixture in the refrigerator to chill while preparing the sweet potato mixture.
Mash the Sweet Potatoes:
After releasing the pressure, remove the sweet potatoes from the Instant Pot® and drain any excess liquid. Return the drained sweet potatoes to the pot. Using a potato masher, mash the sweet potatoes until smooth.
Combine the Sweet Potato Mixture:
Stir in the remaining 5 tablespoons of melted unsalted butter, ½ cup brown sugar, 2 lightly beaten large eggs, ⅓ cup whole milk, 1 teaspoon orange zest, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon, and ¾ teaspoon kosher salt into the mashed sweet potatoes. Mix until all ingredients are thoroughly incorporated.
Assemble the Casserole:
Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Lightly oil a 9 x 13-inch baking dish or coat it with nonstick spray. Spread the sweet potato mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the chilled pecan streusel topping evenly over the sweet potato mixture.
Bake the Casserole:
Place the baking dish into the preheated oven and bake until the casserole is almost set, approximately 40 minutes. Remove the dish from the oven and sprinkle 1 cup of miniature marshmallows evenly over the top. Return the dish to the oven and continue to bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the marshmallows are golden brown.
Serve:
Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and serve immediately.
Notes
Preparation Ahead of Time:
This recipe allows for preparation ahead of time. You can cook the sweet potatoes in the Instant Pot® the night before, assemble the casserole in the baking dish, and refrigerate it overnight. Before baking, let the casserole sit at room temperature for about 15-30 minutes. Then, proceed with baking as directed.
Cook techniques
Pressure Cooking Sweet Potatoes
Add peeled and chopped sweet potatoes with water to the Instant Pot, select high pressure, and set the timer for 8 minutes. This technique ensures the sweet potatoes cook quickly and retain their moisture.
Making Pecan Streusel Topping
Combine chopped pecans, melted butter, brown sugar, flour, and kosher salt in a bowl. This technique creates a crunchy topping that adds texture and flavor to the casserole.
Mashing Sweet Potatoes
After pressure cooking, drain excess liquid and mash the sweet potatoes until smooth. This technique helps achieve a creamy consistency for the casserole.
Combining Ingredients
Stir together the sweet potato mash with melted butter, brown sugar, eggs, milk, orange zest, vanilla, cinnamon, and salt. This step ensures all flavors meld together nicely.
Baking the Casserole
After assembling the casserole in a prepared baking dish, bake it at 350°F until nearly set. The oven’s heat helps firm up the mixture.
Broiling Miniature Marshmallows
Once the casserole is nearly done, sprinkle marshmallows on top and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until golden brown. This technique gives the marshmallows a toasted flavor and appealing appearance.
FAQ
Can I prepare the casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can cook the sweet potatoes and assemble the casserole the night before. Just refrigerate it overnight and let it sit at room temperature before baking.
Can I use different nuts for the topping?
Certainly! Feel free to substitute pecans with walnuts or almonds if desired.
What can I use instead of eggs for a vegan option?
You can replace eggs with flaxseed meal or a commercial egg replacer to make the recipe vegan.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Can I use canned sweet potatoes?
While fresh sweet potatoes are recommended for the best flavor and texture, you can use canned sweet potatoes. Just be sure to drain them well before mashing.
Conclusion
The Instant Pot Sweet Potato Casserole is a delightful dish that beautifully pairs the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with a crunchy pecan topping and fluffy marshmallows. It’s a comforting, crowd-pleasing recipe perfect for family gatherings or holiday dinners. Enjoy the layers of flavor and texture that make this casserole a standout dish!
More recipes suggestions and combination
Maple Pecan Sweet Potato Casserole
Enhance your casserole by adding maple syrup to the sweet potato mixture for a richer flavor profile. Top with a maple-infused pecan streusel instead of traditional butter.
Savory Sweet Potato Casserole
Swap out the sweet components and create a savory version by adding garlic, herbs, and cheese. Top with breadcrumbs or crushed crackers for a crunchy finish.
Sweet Potato and Apple Casserole
Combine the sweetness of sweet potatoes with tart apples. Layer sliced apples on top of the sweet potato mixture and add cinnamon for a warm, inviting flavor.
Sweet Potato Casserole with Bacon
Incorporate crispy bacon bits into the sweet potato mixture or as a topping. The savory bacon enhances the sweetness of the potatoes and adds a delicious crunch.
Chocolate Chip Sweet Potato Casserole
For a dessert twist, fold in semi-sweet chocolate chips to the sweet potato mixture. This unexpected combination creates a rich and indulgent casserole experience.
