Loaded Sweet Potato Casserole

Melted butter, brown sugar, and vanilla for flavor...eggs and cream for rich creaminess, salt to bring out all the flavors! I like to do a mixed up version of toppings - streusel and marshmallow for that extra bit of indulgence. It’s a dish you might make only once or twice per year, so why not make it the BEST it can possibly be, right??

What you need:

for the casserole:

2 pounds sweet potatoes, peeled (about 3 large

1/3 cup unsalted butter, melted

1/2 cup packed light or dark brown sugar (I prefer dark)

2 large eggs, beaten

1/2 cup heavy cream or whole milk

1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

1/4 teaspoon salt

for the topping

1/3 cup all-purpose flour (spoon & leveled)

1/2 cup packed light or dark brown sugar (I prefer dark)

1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1/3 cup unsalted butter, melted

2 cups shelled pecans

1/2 cup mini-marshmallows

optional: fresh rosemary or thyme, and sea salt for garnish

• Place the sweet potatoes in a large pot or dutch oven and cover them completely with water. Bring water to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes or until the potatoes are tender. Drain the water and allow the sweet potatoes to cool for 15 minutes.

• Preheat oven to 350°F Grease a 9×13 baking pan (or a similar size casserole dish, or a 12-inch deep oven-safe skillet). Set aside.

• Place the potatoes in a large mixing bowl. Using a handheld or stand mixer, beat the potatoes until relatively smooth– I like to leave some chunks for texture. For your reference, you will have about 4 cups of mashed sweet potatoes. Add the butter, brown sugar, beaten, eggs, cream, vanilla, and salt. Spoon/pour the mixture into prepared pan.

• For the topping: In a medium bowl, whisk the flour, brown sugar, and cinnamon together. Using a rubber spatula, fold in the melted butter and pecans until the mixture is totally combined. Spoon evenly over potatoes.

• Bake for 30-40 minutes or until golden brown on top. Allow to cool for 5 minutes, then top with a little fresh rosemary and a sprinkle of sea salt. Serve warm.

ENJOY!