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If you’re on the hunt for a delightful comfort dish that combines the warmth of autumn spices with a rich, nutty crunch, look no further than this Praline Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe. It’s the perfect balance of creamy sweet potatoes infused with pumpkin pie spice, topped with a decadent praline sauce bursting with brown sugar and pecans. This casserole isn’t just a side—it’s the kind of show-stopper everyone will rave about at your dinner table, making every bite a sweet and cozy celebration.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Praline Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe calls for simple, wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully. Each one plays a crucial role: from earthy, tender sweet potatoes to the aromatic pumpkin pie spice that adds warmth, and the buttery pecans that give a satisfying crunch.
- Sweet potatoes: Use medium, peeled and cubed, for a naturally sweet and creamy base.
- Heavy whipping cream: Adds a luxurious richness and smooth texture.
- Eggs: Bind the mixture perfectly for a custard-like consistency.
- Brown sugar (two amounts): Provides deep molasses notes for both the sweet potato mix and the praline topping.
- Vanilla extract (two amounts): Brings out the sweetness and adds fragrant complexity.
- Pumpkin pie spice: A warming blend that elevates the flavor with cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves.
- Chopped pecans: Give the casserole its signature praline crunch.
- Sweetened condensed milk: Enriches the praline topping with creamy sweetness.
- Butter: Melted and mixed into the praline topping for silkiness and depth.
How to Make Praline Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pan
Start by preheating your oven to 325ºF. Lightly spray an 8×8-inch or 9×9-inch pan with cooking spray to ensure your casserole releases easily after baking. Having everything ready now will set you up for smooth sailing as you move along.
Step 2: Cook the Sweet Potatoes
Place the peeled and cubed sweet potatoes into a large saucepan and cover them generously with water. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat, cover, and simmer for 10 to 15 minutes until they’re tender and easily pierced with a fork. Drain them completely to avoid a watery casserole.
Step 3: Mix the Sweet Potato Base
Transfer the cooked sweet potatoes to a large bowl. Add heavy cream, eggs, ¼ cup brown sugar, 1 tablespoon vanilla extract, and pumpkin pie spice. Use a hand-held mixer to blend everything into a smooth and luscious mixture. Gently fold in half of your chopped pecans now to incorporate that delightful nutty texture right inside.
Step 4: Assemble the Casserole Base
Spread your creamy sweet potato mixture evenly into the prepared pan. This layer forms the heart of the casserole, silky and spiced, just waiting for that crunchy topping.
Step 5: Prepare and Add the Praline Topping
In a small bowl, stir together ⅓ cup brown sugar, sweetened condensed milk, melted butter, and ½ teaspoon vanilla extract. Spoon this luscious praline sauce over the sweet potatoes, then run a knife gently through the mixture to create beautiful swirls. This topping is the secret that makes this Praline Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe unforgettable.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Place your dish in the oven uncovered and bake for 30 to 40 minutes. The praline topping will caramelize into a gorgeous golden crust while the sweet potato layer underneath becomes irresistibly tender and full of flavor. Once baked, allow it to cool slightly before serving so the flavors settle wonderfully.
How to Serve Praline Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
For a final flourish, sprinkle a few extra chopped pecans on top just before serving to enhance the crunchy praline experience. A light dusting of cinnamon or a few fresh thyme leaves can add a sophisticated touch and invite an enticing aroma to your table.
Side Dishes
This bold and sweet casserole pairs perfectly with savory dishes like roasted turkey, glazed ham, or even a hearty vegetable medley. Its richness balances wonderfully with crisp green salads or tangy cranberry sauce, making your meal a harmonious feast.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to wow your guests? Serve individual portions in cute ramekins or mini cast-iron skillets for a rustic, charming look. Layering it with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream turns this Praline Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe into a dessert-like treat that will surely have everyone asking for seconds.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftovers tightly covered in the refrigerator for up to four days. The flavors meld even more overnight, making it perfect for quick weekday side dishes or a cozy midweek indulgence.
Freezing
If you want to prep this in advance, you can freeze the unbaked casserole covered tightly with foil for up to 2 months. When ready to bake, thaw it overnight in the fridge and then bake as directed. This makes holiday meal prep much less stressful.
Reheating
Reheat individual servings in the microwave for about 1 to 2 minutes until warmed through, or reheat the whole casserole in a 325ºF oven, covered with foil, for 15-20 minutes. A quick blast under the broiler can refresh the praline topping’s crispness if needed.
FAQs
Can I use canned sweet potatoes instead of fresh?
While fresh sweet potatoes provide the best texture and flavor, canned can work in a pinch. Just be sure to drain them well and adjust the liquid in the recipe accordingly to avoid excess moisture.
What makes this a praline casserole?
The defining feature is the sweet praline topping made from brown sugar, melted butter, sweetened condensed milk, and pecans. This mixture caramelizes beautifully in the oven, providing a crunchy, candy-like crust over the smooth sweet potatoes.
Is this dish gluten-free?
Yes! All the ingredients in this Praline Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe are naturally gluten-free, making it a safe and delicious option for those avoiding gluten.
Can I prepare this casserole vegan?
To make a vegan version, substitute heavy cream with coconut milk or a plant-based cream, replace eggs with flax eggs, and use vegan butter. Note that texture and taste will vary slightly.
How far ahead can I assemble this casserole?
You can assemble the casserole completely, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. This makes it convenient for holiday entertaining or busy weeknights.
Final Thoughts
This Praline Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe is a warm hug on a plate, perfect for any occasion when comfort food is calling your name. Its sweet, spiced filling paired with that irresistible praline topping has a way of bringing everyone together around the table. Trust me, once you try this, it’ll become a treasured favorite you’ll want to make year after year. So go ahead and dive in—you deserve this sweet, nutty goodness in your life.
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Praline Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30-40 minutes
- Total Time: 45-55 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
A cozy and indulgent Praline Sweet Potato Casserole featuring creamy mashed sweet potatoes blended with warm pumpkin pie spice and topped with a luscious, buttery pecan praline swirl. Perfect as a comforting side dish for holiday gatherings or any special occasion.
Ingredients
Sweet Potato Mixture
- 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
- ½ cup heavy whipping cream
- 2 large eggs
- ¼ cup packed brown sugar
- 1 Tbsp vanilla extract
- 1½ tsp pumpkin pie spice
- ½ cup chopped pecans
Praline Topping
- ⅓ cup packed brown sugar
- ¼ cup sweetened condensed milk
- 1 Tbsp butter, melted
- ½ tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- Prep the Oven and Pan: Preheat your oven to 325ºF (165ºC). Lightly spray an 8×8-inch or 9×9-inch baking pan with cooking spray to prevent sticking, and set it aside.
- Cook Sweet Potatoes: Place the peeled and cubed sweet potatoes into a large saucepan and cover with water. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce heat to a simmer, cover, and cook for 10 to 15 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork. Drain well and transfer to a large mixing bowl.
- Mix Sweet Potato Base: Add the heavy whipping cream, eggs, ¼ cup of packed brown sugar, 1 tablespoon vanilla extract, and pumpkin pie spice to the cooked sweet potatoes. Using a handheld mixer, blend until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Gently fold in the chopped pecans.
- Assemble the Casserole: Spread the sweet potato mixture evenly into the prepared baking pan, smoothing out the surface.
- Prepare and Add Praline Topping: In a small bowl, combine the ⅓ cup brown sugar, sweetened condensed milk, melted butter, and ½ teaspoon vanilla extract. Spoon this mixture evenly over the sweet potato layer. Use a knife or skewer to swirl the topping through the sweet potato mixture for a marbled effect.
- Bake the Casserole: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 30 to 40 minutes, until the topping is bubbly and slightly caramelized, and the casserole is heated through. Remove from oven and allow to cool slightly before serving.
Notes
- Use medium-sized sweet potatoes for even cooking and consistency.
- Ensure sweet potatoes are well-drained to avoid a watery casserole.
- You can prepare this casserole a day ahead and reheat before serving.
- For a nut-free version, omit the pecans in both the sweet potato mixture and topping.
- Adjust pumpkin pie spice to taste or substitute with cinnamon and nutmeg.
