Cranberry Pecan Sweet Potato Casserole is like that warm hug from your grandma, bringing all the feels and flavors together in one delightful dish. Picture this: velvety sweet potatoes mixed with tart cranberries, crunchy pecans, and a sprinkle of cinnamon that dances in the air like it’s auditioning for a Broadway show. It’s the kind of casserole that not only smells divine but also makes your taste buds do a happy dance.
Now, imagine serving this beauty at Thanksgiving dinner or your next holiday gathering. Friends and family will flock to your table, drawn by the irresistible aroma wafting through the air. Just one bite transports you back to cherished moments spent around the family table, sharing laughter and love. cranberry and brie phyllo cups Trust me, when you whip up this Cranberry Pecan Sweet Potato Casserole, you’re not just making a dish; you’re creating memories that’ll linger long after the last crumb is gone.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Cranberry Pecan Sweet Potato Casserole showcases an amazing blend of sweet and savory flavors that delight every palate.
- Preparation is simple and straightforward, meaning you can focus on enjoying time with loved ones.
- The vibrant colors make it an eye-catching centerpiece on any table setting.
- Its versatility allows it to shine during holidays or as a comforting weeknight dish.
Ingredients for Cranberry Pecan Sweet Potato Casserole
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Sweet Potatoes: Choose firm and smooth sweet potatoes for the best texture; approximately 2 pounds will serve about six people.
- Cranberries: Fresh or frozen cranberries work wonders here; they add a tart contrast to the sweetness of the potatoes.
- Pecans: Toasted pecans give a delightful crunch; roughly one cup will do the trick.
- Brown Sugar: Use light brown sugar for sweetness; it pairs beautifully with the earthy tones of sweet potatoes.
- Cinnamon: A teaspoon of ground cinnamon enhances warmth and comfort in every bite; opt for fresh if possible.
- Butter: Use unsalted butter to control flavor balance; about half a cup adds richness.
- Vanilla Extract: A splash of vanilla extract brightens up the flavors; use pure vanilla for the best results.
How to Make Cranberry Pecan Sweet Potato Casserole
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it’s heating up, grab a large baking dish and lightly coat it with nonstick cooking spray because nobody enjoys scrubbing burnt-on casserole later.
Step 2: Prepare the Sweet Potatoes
Peel and chop about two pounds of sweet potatoes into cubes. Toss them into a pot filled with water and boil until they’re fork-tender—about 15-20 minutes should do it!
Step 3: Mash Those Potatoes
Drain the sweet potatoes and return them to the pot. Add half a cup of unsalted butter, half a cup of brown sugar, one teaspoon of vanilla extract, and one teaspoon of cinnamon. Mash everything together until smooth and creamy—think cloud-like consistency!
Step 4: Mix in Cranberries
Fold in about one cup of cranberries gently into your mashed sweet potato mixture. You want those little bursts of tartness throughout without turning them into mush—nobody likes mushy berries!
Step 5: Add Pecans
Chop roughly one cup of toasted pecans (or leave them whole if you’re feeling fancy) and fold them into the mix as well. This adds that delightful crunch we all crave in life.
Step 6: Bake
Transfer your heavenly mixture into your prepared baking dish. Bake uncovered for about 25-30 minutes until it’s heated through and slightly golden on top.
Serve this delightful Cranberry Pecan Sweet Potato Casserole warm as a side dish or even as dessert! Drizzle some maple syrup over each serving for an extra touch of sweetness if desired—it’s like magic on your plate!
You Must Know
- This delightful cranberry pecan sweet potato casserole is not just a holiday favorite; it’s the ultimate comfort food.
- With its nutty crunch and sweet, tangy flavors, it brightens up any dinner table.
- Plus, it’s easy to prepare, making it a hit for gatherings and cozy nights in!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by boiling the sweet potatoes until they are tender. While they cool, toast the pecans in a pan to enhance their flavor. Mix everything together with cranberries, spices, and a dash of sweetness before baking for that perfect golden finish.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out pecans for walnuts or include marshmallows on top for extra sweetness. You can also try adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to elevate those warm flavors. Personalize this casserole to make it uniquely yours!
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, simply pop it in the oven at 350°F until warmed through. A little sprinkle of fresh nuts on top adds crunchiness again!
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use freshly roasted pecans for a deeper flavor and crunch.
- Overmixing can lead to a gummy texture, so fold gently when combining ingredients.
- For a festive twist, add orange zest to brighten the dish’s taste even further.
I remember the first time I served this casserole at Thanksgiving. My aunt took one bite and exclaimed it was like autumn on a plate! We all laughed as she went back for seconds—and thirds!
FAQs:
What is Cranberry Pecan Sweet Potato Casserole?
Cranberry Pecan Sweet Potato Casserole is a delightful dish that combines the earthy sweetness of sweet potatoes with tart cranberries and crunchy pecans. This casserole is often baked until golden brown and is a popular choice for holiday meals. The blend of flavors creates a perfect balance, making it an ideal side dish for Thanksgiving or any special occasion.
How do I prepare the sweet potatoes for the casserole?
To prepare the sweet potatoes for your Cranberry Pecan Sweet Potato Casserole, first, peel and dice them into even chunks. Boil the sweet potato pieces in salted water until they are tender, which usually takes about 15-20 minutes. Drain them well, then mash or blend until smooth. This creates a creamy base for your casserole that pairs beautifully with the cranberries and pecans.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can definitely make Cranberry Pecan Sweet Potato Casserole ahead of time. Prepare the casserole up to the baking stage, then cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Store it in the refrigerator for up to two days before baking. pumpkin hummus for fall gatherings When you’re ready to serve, simply remove it from the fridge and bake as directed. This makes it convenient for holiday gatherings!
What can I serve with Cranberry Pecan Sweet Potato Casserole?
Cranberry Pecan Sweet Potato Casserole pairs wonderfully with a variety of dishes. It complements savory items like roasted turkey, glazed ham, or herb-seasoned chicken. butternut squash soup shooters Additionally, you can serve it alongside green vegetables like steamed broccoli or Brussels sprouts for a complete meal that balances flavors and textures.
Conclusion for Cranberry Pecan Sweet Potato Casserole:
In summary, Cranberry Pecan Sweet Potato Casserole is a deliciously unique dish that enhances any festive meal with its vibrant flavors and textures. By preparing your sweet potatoes correctly and utilizing fresh cranberries and chopped pecans, you create a dish that’s not only appealing but also nutritious. tacos featuring sweet potatoes Whether you make it ahead of time or enjoy it fresh from the oven, this casserole will surely impress your guests at any gathering!
Cranberry Pecan Sweet Potato Casserole
Cranberry Pecan Sweet Potato Casserole is a delightful blend of creamy sweet potatoes, tart cranberries, and crunchy pecans, perfect for adding warmth to your holiday table. This dish not only serves as a delicious side but also fosters connection and joy among family and friends. With its vibrant colors and comforting flavors, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser during Thanksgiving or any festive gathering.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 2 lbs sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
- 1 cup toasted pecans, chopped
- 1/2 cup light brown sugar
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a baking dish with nonstick spray.
- Boil sweet potatoes in salted water until fork-tender (15-20 minutes). Drain and return to the pot.
- Mash sweet potatoes with melted butter, brown sugar, vanilla extract, and cinnamon until smooth.
- Gently fold in cranberries and pecans.
- Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish and bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes until heated through and golden on top.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/6 of casserole (approximately 200g)
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 85mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 39g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
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