Southern Maple Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe

Name: Southern Maple Sweet Potato Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: Southern
Ingredients: 2 lbs sweet potatoes; 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed; 1/4 cup pure maple syrup; 1 tsp ground cinnamon; 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg; 1/4 tsp salt; 1 cup chopped pecans; 2 tbsp melted butter; 2 tbsp brown sugar

Published: November 27, 2025

by Mahdibrs

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This Southern Maple Sweet Potato Casserole combines ease of preparation with an explosion of flavors that will delight your taste buds.
The vibrant colors create an eye-catching centerpiece for any meal.
It’s versatile enough to serve as a side dish or even a dessert when you’re feeling adventurous!
Perfect for potlucks and family gatherings alike.

Ingredients for Southern Maple Sweet Potato Casserole

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Sweet Potatoes: Choose firm sweet potatoes without blemishes for maximum creaminess once cooked.
Unsalted Butter: Adds richness and helps achieve that smooth texture; make sure it’s softened before mixing.
Brown Sugar: Use packed brown sugar for that deep caramel flavor that’s essential in sweet potato casserole.
Maple Syrup: Opt for pure maple syrup; it elevates this dish from good to “oh my goodness!” levels of deliciousness.
Pecan Topping: Chopped pecans add crunch; toast them lightly for extra flavor before sprinkling on top.

For the Spices:

Cinnamon: This spice adds warmth and familiarity; always use fresh ground cinnamon for best results.
Nutmeg: A dash brings out the sweetness and adds depth; be careful not to overdo it since nutmeg can overpower.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Southern Maple 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). This is crucial because no one likes soggy sweet potatoes—trust me on this one.

Step 2: Prepare the Sweet Potatoes

Peel and chop about two pounds of sweet potatoes into even chunks. Boil them in salted water until tender (about 15-20 minutes). Drain well and let cool slightly.

Step 3: Mash It Up

In a large bowl, combine the drained sweet potatoes with unsalted butter, brown sugar, maple syrup, cinnamon, nutmeg, and a pinch of salt. Mash until smooth and creamy—this step is where you’ll want to channel your inner potato whisperer!

Step 4: Assemble Your Casserole

Transfer the mashed sweet potato mixture into a greased baking dish. Spread it out evenly so every bite gets that glorious flavor.

Step 5: Create the Pecan Topping

In another bowl, combine chopped pecans with melted butter and a sprinkle of brown sugar. Mix until all nuts are coated in sugary goodness. Sprinkle generously over the sweet potato layer—you want it crunchy!

Step 6: Bake It!

Bake in your preheated oven for about 30-35 minutes or until bubbly and golden on top. If you’re feeling fancy (and let’s be honest, who isn’t?), broil it for an additional minute or two for that perfect crispy topping.

Serve warm alongside your favorite dishes or simply enjoy it straight from the baking dish while standing in front of an open fridge—you know you’ve been there!

Now go ahead and impress your friends and family with this showstopper of a Southern Maple Sweet Potato Casserole! They’ll be begging you for seconds—and maybe even some leftovers (good luck with that!).

You Must Know

Southern Maple Sweet Potato Casserole is a delightful blend of sweet and savory that will make your taste buds dance!
It’s perfect for holiday gatherings or just a cozy night in.
This recipe is so easy, you might find yourself making it weekly!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by boiling sweet potatoes until tender, then mash them to a buttery smoothness. While they cool, whisk together eggs, maple syrup, and spices. Mix everything and pour into a baking dish. Bake until golden perfection emerges from the oven.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap maple syrup for brown sugar if you prefer a richer sweetness. Toss in some pecans or marshmallows for added texture and flavor. You can even add a pinch of cayenne for a surprising kick!

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days. To reheat, pop it back in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, or use the microwave for quicker meals without losing that delicious texture.

Chef's Helpful Tips

To ensure your casserole turns out perfectly every time, start with fresh sweet potatoes for the best flavor.
When mixing, avoid over-mashing to keep some texture.
Lastly, let it cool slightly before serving; this helps set everything beautifully.

Sharing this recipe reminds me of last Thanksgiving when my cousin thought adding bacon bits would be a brilliant idea. Spoiler: It was! Our family devoured it faster than I could say “Southern Maple Sweet Potato Casserole.”

FAQs:

What ingredients are needed for Southern Maple Sweet Potato Casserole?

To create a delicious Southern Maple Sweet Potato Casserole, you will need sweet potatoes, maple syrup, butter, brown sugar, vanilla extract, eggs, and a pinch of salt. You can also add pecans or marshmallows for added texture and sweetness. Each ingredient plays a vital role in achieving the rich flavor and smooth consistency that makes this casserole a beloved dish at gatherings.

How long does it take to bake Southern Maple Sweet Potato Casserole?

Baking Southern Maple Sweet Potato Casserole typically takes around 30 to 40 minutes at 350°F (175°C). It’s important to check for doneness by inserting a fork into the center; it should come out clean. If you top it with marshmallows or nuts, you might want to bake it a bit longer to achieve that perfect golden brown finish.

Can I make Southern Maple Sweet Potato Casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare Southern Maple Sweet Potato Casserole a day in advance. Simply assemble the casserole and store it in the refrigerator overnight. When you’re ready to serve, just pop it in the oven. This not only saves time but allows the flavors to meld beautifully, enhancing the overall taste of your dish.

Is Southern Maple Sweet Potato Casserole gluten-free?

Yes, Southern Maple Sweet Potato Casserole is naturally gluten-free since it primarily consists of sweet potatoes and other gluten-free ingredients. However, always double-check any pre-packaged items like marshmallows or toppings to ensure they are gluten-free. This makes it an excellent choice for those avoiding gluten while still enjoying a comforting side dish.

If you’re craving more sweet treats, explore these delightful dessert recipes for your next baking adventure.

Conclusion for Southern Maple Sweet Potato Casserole:

In summary, Southern Maple Sweet Potato Casserole combines sweet potatoes with rich maple syrup and spices for an irresistible flavor profile. Preparing this dish is straightforward and can be done ahead of time, making it perfect for gatherings. Whether topped with pecans or marshmallows, this casserole adds warmth and sweetness to any meal. Try this recipe to bring a taste of the South right to your table!

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