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–+ servings

Savory Sweet Potato Casserole

This sweet potato casserole features creamy, mashed sweet potatoes mixed with herbs and topped with a crunchy breadcrumb crust, baked until golden and fragrant. The dish combines natural sweetness with savory herbs, creating a comforting yet interesting side that can be customized with nuts, cheese, or bacon. Its final appearance is a bubbling, golden-topped casserole with a velvety interior.
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Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Calories: 250kcal
Author: James Taylor
Servings: 4

Equipment

  • Large pot with lid
  • Fork or potato masher
  • Mixing Bowl
  • Baking dish (9-inch square or similar)
  • Pastry Brush (optional)

Ingredients

  • 4 large sweet potatoes peeled and cubed
  • 2 tablespoons butter melted and softened
  • 1 pinch salt to taste
  • 1 tablespoon maple syrup or honey
  • 1 teaspoon fresh thyme chopped
  • 1 teaspoon fresh sage chopped
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs panko or regular
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan or Gruyère optional, for topping
  • 1/4 cup chopped pecans or walnuts optional, for crunch
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder for added warmth

Instructions

  • Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Peel and cube the sweet potatoes, then place them in a large pot and cover with salted water. Bring to a boil and cook until the potatoes are very tender, about 15 minutes, filling your kitchen with a sweet, earthy aroma.
    Bring the water to a boil over medium-high heat
  • Drain the cooked sweet potatoes thoroughly and transfer them to a mixing bowl. Use a fork or potato masher to mash until smooth, with no lumps remaining.
    Drain the sweet potatoes
  • Add melted butter, a pinch of salt, and a splash of maple syrup to the mash. Mix well until the ingredients are fully incorporated, creating a glossy, flavorful base.
    fork to mash the sweet potatoes
  • Stir in chopped fresh thyme, sage, garlic powder, and adjust salt to taste. The herbs should be fragrant, blending into the sweet potato mash with a cozy, herbal aroma.
  • Transfer the sweet potato mixture into a baking dish and spread it evenly with the back of a spoon or spatula, smoothing out the surface.
  • In a small bowl, combine breadcrumbs, grated cheese (if using), chopped nuts, and a little extra melted butter. Mix until the crumbs are coated and crumbly, then sprinkle evenly over the top of the casserole.
  • Place the casserole in the oven and bake for about 25–30 minutes, until the topping is golden and crispy, and the sweet potato filling is bubbling around the edges. The aroma of herbs and toasted breadcrumbs will fill your kitchen.
    Bake the casserole
  • Remove from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. The casserole will set slightly, making it easier to serve clean slices that reveal the vibrant orange filling beneath the crispy crust.
    Serve warm

Notes

Feel free to customize with bacon, roasted vegetables, or different herbs for a personalized touch. For an extra nutty flavor, toast the nuts before mixing them into the topping.

Nutrition

Calories: 250kcal | Carbohydrates: 45g | Protein: 4g | Fat: 8g | Saturated Fat: 3g | Cholesterol: 15mg | Sodium: 200mg | Potassium: 700mg | Sugar: 12g | Vitamin C: 20mg | Calcium: 80mg | Iron: 1.5mg