This Cheesy Sweet Potato Casserole is a warm and comforting dish that’s perfect for any meal. With creamy sweet potatoes and a gooey cheese topping, it’s a delightful blend of flavors!
I can’t help but smile when I take a bite. It’s like a cozy hug on a plate. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak some veggies into dinner without anyone noticing! 🥰
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Sweet Potatoes: These are the star of the dish, bringing natural sweetness and creaminess. If you can’t find sweet potatoes, you could use butternut squash or carrots for a different spin.
Sour Cream: It adds creaminess and a little tang. Greek yogurt is a great substitute if you’re looking for a lighter option, as it has a similar texture and taste.
Cheddar Cheese: I love using sharp cheddar for its rich flavor. If you prefer something milder, try Monterey Jack. Vegan cheese can also be used for a dairy-free version.
Pecans and Bacon: Both add a delightful crunch! You can swap pecans for walnuts or omit them entirely for a nut-free dish. For a vegetarian option, leave out the bacon and add in some sautéed mushrooms for extra depth.
How Do I Make Sure My Sweet Potatoes Are Perfectly Creamy?
Mashing sweet potatoes can be tricky to get just right, but here are my favorite tips:
- Ensure you boil the sweet potatoes until they are fork-tender. This ensures they mash easily.
- Use a potato masher or electric mixer for a smooth consistency. Avoid over-mixing to prevent gummy texture.
- If the mixture seems thick, gradually add milk until you reach the desired creaminess.
Cheesy Sweet Potato Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Casserole:
- 4 large sweet potatoes (about 3 pounds), peeled and cubed
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup butter, melted
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup milk (adjust as needed)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
For the Topping:
- 1 cup chopped pecans
- 4 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- Fresh thyme sprig for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Cheesy Sweet Potato Casserole takes about 10-15 minutes to prepare and around 20-25 minutes to bake. That’s less than an hour to create a comforting dish perfect for gatherings or family dinners!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grab a 9×9-inch or similarly sized oval baking dish and give it a light grease with butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking.
2. Prepare the Sweet Potatoes:
Put your peeled and cubed sweet potatoes into a large pot and fill it with water, covering the potatoes. Bring the pot to a boil over high heat. Then lower the heat and let it simmer until the sweet potatoes are tender, about 15-20 minutes. Once done, drain the water and transfer them to a large bowl.
3. Mash It Up:
Now it’s time to mash those sweet potatoes! Add the sour cream, melted butter, the 1/4 cup of milk, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder (if using) to the sweet potatoes. Mash until the mixture is smooth and creamy. If it’s too thick, feel free to mix in a little more milk until you reach your desired consistency.
4. Add the Cheese:
In goes half of the shredded cheddar cheese! Stir it into the sweet potato mixture until everything is mixed well.
5. Spread in the Baking Dish:
Take your deliciously creamy sweet potato mixture and spread it evenly into the prepared baking dish.
6. Top with Cheese and Toppings:
Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese generously over the top of the sweet potato mix. Then, evenly distribute the chopped pecans and crumbled bacon over the cheese for that delightful crunch.
7. Bake to Perfection:
Pop your baking dish in the oven and let it bake for about 20-25 minutes until the top is bubbly and golden brown. The aroma will be fantastic!
8. Garnish and Serve:
Once baked, carefully remove the casserole from the oven. If you like, garnish it with fresh thyme for a beautiful touch and added flavor. Serve warm as a delightful side dish!
This Cheesy Sweet Potato Casserole is a wonderful mix of sweet and savory flavors, sure to impress your family and friends. Enjoy every bite!
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! While cheddar cheese is classic for this casserole, you can experiment with other cheeses like Monterey Jack for a milder flavor or Gouda for a smoky touch. Just ensure they melt well!
Can I Make This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole and assemble it a day in advance. Just cover it tightly and refrigerate. When you’re ready to bake, you may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time since it will be starting cold.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or use the microwave in short intervals.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegan?
Definitely! To make it vegan, replace the butter with a plant-based alternative, use vegan sour cream, and choose vegan cheese. You can skip the bacon or substitute it with crispy mushrooms or tempeh bacon for added flavor!