Southern Maple Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe

If you’re craving something that perfectly balances cozy comfort with a touch of sweetness, you’ve got to try this Southern Maple Sweet Potato Casserole. It’s a heartwarming dish loaded with tender roasted sweet potatoes infused with warm spices and maple syrup, topped with crunchy pecans and luscious marshmallows that melt into golden perfection. Every bite is a delightful mix of textures and flavors that feels like a big, delicious hug—trust me, this casserole will quickly become your go-to dish for holidays and family gatherings alike.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this Southern Maple Sweet Potato Casserole lies in its simple yet thoughtfully chosen ingredients. Each one brings its own magic, whether it’s creamy texture, sweet warmth, or that irresistible crunchy topping that makes the dish unforgettable.

• 4 large organic sweet potatoes, peeled + cubed: The star of the dish, packed with natural sweetness and creamy texture when roasted.
• 2-3 Tbsps extra virgin olive oil: Helps roast the sweet potatoes to a perfect golden color while adding subtle depth.
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon: Adds a classic warm spice note that complements the sweetness brilliantly.
• 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg: Provides a gentle nutty aroma, enhancing the cozy vibe of the casserole.
• 1/2 cup Almond milk: (Or your preferred milk) Adds creaminess to the filling while keeping it light and smooth.
• 2 tsps vanilla extract: Infuses the dish with sweet, fragrant undertones that marry all flavors.
• 4 Tbsps unsalted butter, cubed: Offers rich, buttery bursts inside the casserole that melt during baking.
• 1/3 cup organic brown sugar: Deepens the sweetness with a caramel-like tone.
• 1/4 cup pure maple syrup: Intensifies the classic Southern sweetness and adds a hint of complexity.
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon: Another layer of warm spice to echo the flavors throughout.
• 1/8 tsp ground nutmeg: A subtle second touch for nutmeg’s comforting essence.
• Pinch of ground allspice: Gives a slight spicy kick, enhancing the overall flavor profile.
• 1 cup organic raisins, soaked + drained: Adds bursts of juicy, chewy sweetness that pair beautifully with the creamy potatoes.
• 2 cups marshmallows: The irresistible gooey topping that browns to perfection and melts into the layers below.
• 1 1/2 cups raw pecans: Brings a crunchy, buttery texture that contrasts the softness of the casserole.
• 1/4 cup pure maple syrup: Sweetens and lightly glazes the pecan topping for a spectacular finish.

How to Make Southern Maple Sweet Potato Casserole

Step 1: Roast the Sweet Potatoes

First things first, preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Toss the cubed sweet potatoes with extra virgin olive oil, cinnamon, and nutmeg until they’re perfectly coated. Spread them out in a single layer and roast for about 50 to 60 minutes until they’re tender, golden, and caramelized on the edges. This roasting brings out their natural sweetness and gives the casserole its rich, comforting base.

Step 2: Prepare the Casserole Filling

Once your sweet potatoes have cooled slightly, preheat your oven again to 375 degrees Fahrenheit and lightly grease a 9×13 baking dish. In a big bowl, combine the roasted sweet potatoes with almond milk, vanilla extract, brown sugar, maple syrup, extra cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice, soaked raisins, and marshmallows. Don’t worry if some sweet potatoes start to mash—this mix of creamy mash and chunkiness creates the perfect texture. Scoop the mixture into your baking dish, dot with butter cubes evenly, and press in a few extra marshmallows for that next-level gooeyness.

Step 3: Add the Topping and Bake

Mix the raw pecans with the maple syrup in a small bowl to coat them thoroughly. Pile this sticky, nutty topping over your casserole until every inch is covered. Pop the dish into the oven covered with foil for 15 minutes, then remove the foil to bake for another 15 minutes until the topping is golden brown and the marshmallows are decadently melted and bubbly. Let the casserole cool a bit before serving to let the flavors meld beautifully.

How to Serve Southern Maple Sweet Potato Casserole

Garnishes

Consider a sprinkle of extra chopped pecans or a light dusting of cinnamon right before serving to add a visual pop and an extra boost of flavor. Fresh thyme leaves also make a lovely fresh contrast if you want a subtle herbal note.

Side Dishes

This Southern Maple Sweet Potato Casserole pairs brilliantly with traditional dishes like roasted turkey or honey-glazed ham. For a vegetarian meal, serve alongside sautéed greens or a fresh mixed green salad to balance the rich sweetness.

Creative Ways to Present

For a festive touch, serve this casserole in individual ramekins for a personal serving experience. Alternatively, top each portion with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a dessert twist that’s sure to surprise your guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After your meal, allow the casserole to cool completely before transferring leftovers to an airtight container. Stored in the refrigerator, it will keep for up to 4 days, maintaining all its delicious flavors and textures.

Freezing

You can freeze this Southern Maple Sweet Potato Casserole without the pecan topping for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the fridge, then add the pecan topping and bake as directed for the last 30 minutes to refresh its crispiness.

Reheating

To reheat, cover the casserole with foil and warm in a 350-degree oven for about 20 minutes or until heated through. For a touch of crisp, remove the foil in the last 5 minutes to let the marshmallows and pecans regain some crunch and gooey charm.

FAQs

Can I use canned sweet potatoes instead of fresh?

While canned sweet potatoes might save time, roasting fresh sweet potatoes really elevates the flavor and texture of this Southern Maple Sweet Potato Casserole. Roasting develops that caramelized sweetness that canned versions just can’t match.

What if I don’t have almond milk? Can I use something else?

Absolutely! Feel free to substitute almond milk with whole milk, oat milk, or any plant-based milk you love. Each will add a slightly different creaminess but work beautifully in the recipe.

Are the marshmallows necessary?

The marshmallows add that signature gooey, sweet topping many people adore, but if you prefer a less sweet dish, you can skip them or substitute with a streusel topping made from oats and brown sugar for a nutty crunch.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

Yes! Use vegan butter and plant-based milk, and opt for vegan marshmallows or omit them entirely. The sweetness from the maple syrup and brown sugar will still shine through.

How do I soak the raisins for this recipe?

Simply place your raisins in warm water for about 10 minutes, then drain them well before adding to the casserole. This helps plump them up so they stay juicy and tender within the dish.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about sharing a dish like this Southern Maple Sweet Potato Casserole with the people you care about. It’s warm, inviting, and just bursting with flavors that feel like home. I encourage you to try this recipe soon—you’ll find it’s a beloved classic in the making, perfect for festive feasts or cozy family dinners any time of year.

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