Pioneer Woman Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe

There’s something about the Pioneer Woman Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe that takes me back to my childhood holidays, where the table was overflowing with love and laughter. I can still hear my mom in the kitchen, her apron dusted with flour, humming along to the tunes of the season while she whipped up this sweet dish. The way the sweet potatoes would transform into this creamy, dreamy goodness topped with that crunchy pecan layer — it was always a highlight of our Thanksgiving feast. Even now, every time I make it, I feel like I’m carrying on a beautiful family tradition.

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This casserole is perfect for fall and winter gatherings, warming hearts and bellies alike. It’s not just a side dish; it’s a cozy hug on a chilly evening, a staple that brings everyone together around the table. Whether it’s a holiday, a family gathering, or just a Sunday dinner, this Pioneer Woman Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe is sure to become a cherished favorite in your home too.

Why You’ll Love "Pioneer Woman Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe"

• Quick prep time of just 15 minutes, making it perfect for busy days.
• Minimal ingredients ensure you can whip it up without a complicated shopping list.
• Family-friendly flavors that appeal to both kids and adults alike.
• Can be made ahead of time, allowing you to focus on other dishes.
• Freezer-friendly, so you can enjoy it later without losing any taste.
• A delightful blend of sweet and crunchy textures that will keep everyone coming back for seconds.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 4 cups peeled, cubed sweet potatoes (fresh is best, but canned works in a pinch)
• 2 large eggs, beaten (room temperature helps them blend better)
• ½ cup white sugar (you can substitute with coconut sugar for a deeper flavor)
• ½ cup milk (dairy or non-dairy, like almond or oat milk, works great)
• 4 tablespoons butter, softened (use unsalted for better control over the salt)
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract (pure vanilla extract gives the best flavor)
• ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste, especially if using salted butter)
• Topping:
• ½ cup brown sugar (packed for that perfect sweetness)
• ⅓ cup all-purpose flour (you can easily swap this for a gluten-free blend)
• 3 tablespoons butter, softened (again, unsalted works best)
• ½ cup chopped pecans (toast them lightly for extra crunch and flavor)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat the Oven

1. First things first, let’s get that oven preheating! Set it to 350°F (175°C) so it’s nice and hot when we’re ready to pop in our casserole.

Boil the Sweet Potatoes

1. Grab your peeled and cubed sweet potatoes and place them in a large pot.
2. Fill the pot with enough water to cover the potatoes completely.
3. Put the pot on the stove over medium-high heat and bring it to a boil.
4. Once it’s boiling, reduce the heat and let them simmer for about 20 minutes, or until they’re tender enough to poke with a fork.

Prepare the Sweet Potato Mixture

1. After your sweet potatoes have cooked, carefully drain them in a colander and let them cool for a minute.
2. Transfer those sweet potatoes to a mixing bowl and mash them until they’re nice and smooth. You want them creamy, not chunky!
3. Now, add in the beaten eggs, white sugar, milk, softened butter, vanilla extract, and salt.
4. Mix everything together until it’s well combined and smooth. Don’t worry if it looks a little runny; that’s what makes it creamy!

Assemble the Casserole

1. Take a greased baking dish (about 9x13 inches works great) and spread the sweet potato mixture evenly into the bottom.
2. Make sure it’s nicely smoothed out so it bakes evenly. Feel free to give it a little taste test at this point — I won’t tell!

Make the Topping

1. In a separate bowl, mix together the brown sugar, all-purpose flour, softened butter, and chopped pecans.
2. Use your fingers or a fork to combine it until it resembles a crumbly mixture. It should feel a bit like sand between your fingers.
3. Once it’s ready, sprinkle this delicious topping evenly over the sweet potato mixture in the baking dish.

Bake the Casserole

1. Now, it’s time to bake! Place the casserole in your preheated oven.
2. Bake it for about 30 to 35 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the edges are bubbling.
3. When it’s done, take it out and let it cool for a few minutes. That’s the hard part — waiting to dig in!

Variations

• Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm spice kick.
• Mix in some apple chunks or cranberries for a fruity twist.
• Use maple syrup instead of sugar for a natural sweetener.
• Try a dairy-free version by substituting almond milk and coconut oil.
• For a gluten-free option, swap all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend.

Serving and Storage Tips

Serving

Serve the Pioneer Woman Sweet Potato Casserole warm, right out of the oven, for the best flavor. It pairs beautifully with roasted meats or a simple green salad. For an extra touch, drizzle a bit of maple syrup on top or serve with a dollop of whipped cream for a dessert-like treat!

Storage

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. You can also freeze the casserole for up to 3 months. Just make sure to cool it completely before wrapping it tightly. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 20-25 minutes.

Helpful Notes

• If you prefer a smoother texture, use a potato ricer for mashing the sweet potatoes.
• For added richness, consider mixing in a splash of heavy cream with the milk.
• Chopped walnuts can be a great alternative to pecans if you have a nut allergy.
• For a lighter version, reduce the sugar and use a sugar substitute.
• Feel free to add mini marshmallows on top for a fun twist!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I freeze the Pioneer Woman Sweet Potato Casserole?

Yes, you can freeze the casserole! Just make sure it cools completely before wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you're ready to enjoy it, thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.

How can I substitute ingredients in this recipe?

You can easily swap ingredients based on what you have on hand. For example, use brown sugar instead of white sugar, or substitute coconut oil for butter. Almond milk or oat milk can replace regular milk, and you can use any nut type you prefer for the topping.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Absolutely! To make this casserole dairy-free, simply substitute the milk with a non-dairy alternative like almond milk or coconut milk. Use coconut oil or a dairy-free butter alternative instead of regular butter, and you’re good to go!

Final Thoughts

I really hope you give the Pioneer Woman Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe a try. It’s not just a dish; it’s a warm reminder of family gatherings and cozy evenings. Whether it's for a holiday or just a regular family dinner, this casserole is sure to bring smiles all around the table. So roll up your sleeves, gather your loved ones, and let the sweet aroma fill your kitchen. Remember, cooking is all about love and sharing, and I can't wait for you to create your own beautiful memories with this recipe!

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