Sweet potato casserole isn’t just a Thanksgiving staple—it’s a versatile, delicious dish that can grace your table for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or festive celebrations. Sweet potatoes are a powerhouse of flavor and nutrition, and when paired with the right ingredients, they can transform into a dish that’s savory, sweet, healthy, or indulgent. Below, I’ll guide you through two irresistible sweet potato casserole recipes: one savory and one healthy, so you can find the perfect match for your next meal.
Savory Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe
This savory sweet potato casserole is rich, creamy, and topped with a golden, cheesy crust. It’s a perfect complement to roasted meats or a hearty vegetarian main course.
Ingredients
- 5 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
- ⅓ cup sour cream
- ¼ cup milk
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp chopped rosemary
- Salt and pepper to taste
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ⅓ cup breadcrumbs
Instructions:
- Prepare the Sweet Potatoes:
Boil or steam the cubed sweet potatoes in a large pot of water until tender, about 15-20 minutes. Drain and mash until smooth. - Create the Casserole Base:
In a mixing bowl, combine the mashed sweet potatoes with sour cream, milk, melted butter, garlic powder, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Mix well to create a creamy consistency. - Assemble the Casserole:
Grease a casserole dish and spread the sweet potato mixture evenly. - Add the Topping:
Sprinkle the Parmesan cheese and breadcrumbs evenly over the top. - Bake to Perfection:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the casserole for 20 minutes, or until the topping is golden and crispy.
Pro Tip: Add caramelized onions or bacon bits to the topping for a savory burst of flavor.
Healthy Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe
For those looking for a lighter option, this healthy sweet potato casserole is naturally sweetened and loaded with wholesome toppings.
Ingredients:
- 4 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
- ¼ cup Greek yogurt
- 2 tbsp honey
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ½ tsp cinnamon
- ⅓ cup chopped walnuts or almonds
- ¼ cup unsweetened coconut flakes (optional)
Instructions:
- Cook the Sweet Potatoes:
Steam or boil the sweet potatoes until fork-tender. Drain and mash until smooth. - Make the Sweet Potato Base:
In a bowl, combine the mashed sweet potatoes with Greek yogurt, honey, vanilla extract, and cinnamon. Mix until everything is evenly blended. - Assemble the Dish:
Grease a baking dish and spread the sweet potato mixture evenly. Sprinkle the chopped nuts and coconut flakes (if using) on top. - Bake and Serve:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake it for near about 20-25 minutes, or until the top is lightly browned. Serve warm as a healthy sweet potato side dish.
Pro Tip: Substitute honey with maple syrup for a vegan-friendly option that still delivers sweetness.
Conclusion
These sweet potato casseroles are proof that this humble root vegetable can shine in both savory and sweet dishes. Whether you’re hosting Thanksgiving or simply want a cozy side dish for dinner, these recipes are easy to make and packed with flavor.
I’d love to hear about your experience with these casseroles! Did you try the savory option with Parmesan crust or the healthy version with nutty toppings? Feel free to rate these recipes and share your tips or tweaks in the comments below. Let’s make this a fun and interactive cooking journey!