Paula Deen Sweet Potato Casserole: 5 Steps to Comfort Bliss

Let me tell you, Paula Deen Sweet Potato Casserole is an absolute game-changer! This dish is rich, creamy, and bursting with flavor, making it perfect for any gathering, whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a festive holiday feast. I remember my first time trying it at a family reunion—everyone was raving about it, and I couldn’t resist going back for seconds (and thirds!). The combination of sweet potatoes, brown sugar, and marshmallows creates a delightful sweetness that pairs perfectly with savory dishes. It’s like a warm hug on a plate! My family has made this casserole a staple at our celebrations, and I love how it brings everyone together around the table. If you’re looking for a dish that will wow your guests and leave them asking for the recipe, Paula Deen’s Sweet Potato Casserole is the one to make!

Ingredients List

To create the amazing Paula Deen Sweet Potato Casserole, you’ll need a few simple yet flavorful ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 7 cups (about 4 pounds) sweet potatoes – Make sure these are cooked and mashed until smooth. You can boil or bake them; just ensure they’re soft enough to mash easily!
• ½ cup firmly packed dark brown sugar – This gives the casserole its rich sweetness and depth of flavor. Don’t skimp on packing it in tightly!
• 3 large eggs – Lightly beaten, these will help bind the casserole together and add a lovely richness.
• ¼ cup heavy whipping cream – This adds creaminess and enhances the overall texture. It’s a key player in making the casserole velvety!
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon – A warm spice that complements the sweetness of the potatoes beautifully.
• ¼ teaspoon kosher salt – Just a pinch to balance the flavors, enhancing the sweetness without overpowering it.
• 3 cups mini marshmallows – These are the crowning glory, adding that signature gooey sweetness on top.
• 1 cup toasted chopped pecans – For a delightful crunch and nutty flavor, these pecans add a wonderful texture contrast.

Gather these ingredients, and you’re one step closer to making a casserole that will impress your family and friends!

How to Prepare Paula Deen Sweet Potato Casserole

Preheat and Prepare

First things first, let’s get that oven preheating to 350°F (175°C). While that’s warming up, grab an 11×7-inch baking dish and lightly grease it. I usually use a bit of butter or cooking spray to ensure the casserole slides out easily when it’s time to serve. Trust me, you don’t want any sticky situations!

Mix the Ingredients

Now, it’s time to bring all those delicious ingredients together! In a large mixing bowl, whisk the cooked and mashed sweet potatoes until they’re super smooth. Then, add in the firmly packed dark brown sugar, the lightly beaten eggs, heavy cream, ground cinnamon, and kosher salt. Whisk everything together until it’s combined and creamy. Make sure you’re not leaving any lumps behind because that smooth texture is what we’re after! I love watching the colors blend together; it’s like a warm sunset in a bowl.

Bake the Casserole

Once your mixture is all smooth and beautiful, spread it evenly into the prepared baking dish. Pop it into the preheated oven and let it bake for about 45 to 55 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the casserole is set and heated through. Keep an eye on it—the edges should be slightly puffed, and the center should feel firm when you gently press it. The aroma wafting through your kitchen will be pure bliss!

Add Toppings and Finish Baking

After your casserole has baked to perfection, it’s time for the fun part! Carefully take it out of the oven and sprinkle the mini marshmallows and toasted chopped pecans evenly on top. Then, pop it back into the oven for another 10 minutes. This is when the magic happens—the marshmallows will become soft and lightly golden, giving that delightful gooey topping we all love. Your guests won’t be able to resist!

Rest and Serve

Once you’ve achieved that golden, gooey perfection, let the casserole rest for about 10 minutes before serving. This resting time allows the flavors to settle and makes it easier to scoop. Serve it warm, and watch as everyone gathers around for a taste of this comfort food classic!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich and Creamy: The combination of sweet potatoes, heavy cream, and brown sugar creates a luscious, velvety texture that’s simply irresistible.
• Perfect for Gatherings: This casserole is a crowd-pleaser, making it a must-have at any family dinner, holiday feast, or potluck.
• Delightfully Sweet: The mini marshmallows on top create a sweet, gooey layer that adds a fun twist and visual appeal to the dish.
• Crunchy Pecan Topping: The toasted pecans add a wonderful crunch that balances the softness of the sweet potatoes and marshmallows.
• Easy to Make Ahead: You can prep this dish in advance, making it a stress-free option for busy days or special occasions.

Tips for Success

To ensure your Paula Deen Sweet Potato Casserole turns out perfectly every time, here are a few tips that I swear by:

• Use Fresh Sweet Potatoes: Freshly cooked sweet potatoes provide the best flavor and texture. If you can, avoid canned varieties.
• Adjust Sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet casserole, simply reduce the marshmallows to 2 cups or double the pecans for a nuttier flavor.
• Prep Ahead: You can assemble the casserole a day in advance and refrigerate it (without toppings). Just add the marshmallows and pecans before baking.
• Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on the casserole towards the end of baking to avoid drying it out; it should be set but still moist.
• Let It Rest: Allow the casserole to rest before serving; this helps with cutting and enhances the flavors.

With these tips, you’ll have a sweet potato casserole that will impress everyone at the table!

Variations of Paula Deen Sweet Potato Casserole

If you’re feeling adventurous, there are plenty of fun variations you can try with Paula Deen Sweet Potato Casserole to mix things up! For a little zing, consider adding 1/2 teaspoon of nutmeg or 1/4 teaspoon of ginger to the sweet potato mixture. This adds a warm, spicy twist that complements the sweetness beautifully. Want to switch up the toppings? Try using crushed graham crackers instead of marshmallows for a s’mores-inspired version, or sprinkle on some coconut flakes for a tropical vibe. Each variation brings its own unique flavor profile, while still keeping that beloved sweet potato essence at the heart of the dish!

Nutritional Information

When it comes to enjoying Paula Deen Sweet Potato Casserole, knowing the nutritional values can help you savor it even more! Each serving (1 serving) is estimated to contain about 300 calories, with 15g of fat and 5g of protein. You’ll also find around 40g of carbohydrates and 25g of sugar, thanks to the sweetness of the brown sugar and marshmallows. Plus, there’s 4g of fiber to keep things balanced. Keep in mind that these values can vary based on ingredient choices, but this should give you a good idea of what to expect!

FAQ Section

Q1. Can I use canned sweet potatoes for this recipe?
While I recommend using fresh sweet potatoes for the best flavor and texture, you can use canned sweet potatoes in a pinch. Just make sure to drain them well and mash until smooth.

Q2. How can I make this casserole gluten-free?
This Paula Deen Sweet Potato Casserole is naturally gluten-free! Just double-check that any marshmallows and other ingredients you use are labeled gluten-free to be safe.

Q3. Can I freeze leftovers?
Absolutely! You can freeze leftover casserole for up to 3 months. Just make sure it’s cooled completely before wrapping it tightly and popping it in the freezer.

Q4. What can I substitute for heavy cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or whole milk, but the texture may be slightly less creamy.

Q5. How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just reheat it in the oven or microwave before serving!

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