Savory Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe

Are you looking for a Savory Sweet Potato Casserole? Look no more! This recipe is a delicious side dish perfect for various occasions, from festive holidays to cozy family dinners. Its blend of creamy sweet potatoes and savory flavors makes it a standout at any table, ensuring your guests will be asking for seconds.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The combination of sweet potatoes, herbs, and cheeses creates a mouthwatering taste that complements any meal.
• Easy to Make: With straightforward steps and minimal preparation time, this casserole is perfect for cooks of all skill levels.
• Versatile Side Dish: Suitable for holidays, potlucks, or weeknight dinners, this casserole fits into any menu seamlessly.
• Crowd-Pleaser: With 12 servings, it’s ideal for feeding a larger group without much extra effort.
• Comfort Food: This dish combines the warmth of home-cooked meals with delightful textures, making it a comforting choice.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your tools and equipment. These items will help ensure that your Savory Sweet Potato Casserole turns out perfectly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking dish (9×13-inch)
• Large mixing bowl
• Large skillet
• Potato masher or mixer
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking Dish: A 9×13-inch baking dish provides ample space for even cooking and allows the casserole to heat through thoroughly.
• Large Mixing Bowl: Having a spacious bowl makes it easy to combine all ingredients without spilling.
• Potato Masher or Mixer: These tools help achieve the desired creamy consistency in the sweet potatoes effortlessly.

Ingredients

To make this Savory Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe, gather the following ingredients:

• 4 large sweet potatoes uncooked (or 6 cups mashed cooked sweet potatoes)
• 4-5 slices of chicken ham (chopped small)
• 1 tablespoon oil
• 1 large onion (thinly sliced)
• 1 teaspoon thyme
• 1 teaspoon marjoram
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted)
• 1 1/2 cups shredded cheese (mixture of Swiss and Gruyere works well)
• 1/2 cup heavy whipping cream
• 1 large egg
• 1 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper

How to Make Savory Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare it for baking the casserole.

Step 2: Prepare the Baking Dish

Butter a 9×13-inch baking dish and set it aside while you prepare the filling.

Step 3: Cook the Potatoes

You have two options for cooking the sweet potatoes:
1. Peel and cube them. Boil in salted water until soft.
2. Alternatively, peel them and cook in the microwave according to your microwave’s baked potato instructions.

Step 4: Mash the Potatoes

Once cooked, mash the sweet potatoes in a large bowl until smooth.

Step 5: Sauté Chicken Ham and Onions

In a large skillet:
* Warm oil over medium heat.
* Add chopped chicken ham and cook for about 4–5 minutes.
* Stir in thinly sliced onion. Cook until golden brown, around 10 minutes.
* Mix in thyme and marjoram before removing from heat.

Step 6: Combine Ingredients

Add the chicken ham mixture to the mashed sweet potatoes along with:
* Melted butter
* 1 cup shredded cheese
* Heavy cream
* Beaten egg
* Salt
* Pepper
Stir everything together until well combined.

Step 7: Spoon Mixture into Dish

Spoon the combined mixture into your prepared baking dish evenly.

Step 8: Bake Until Heated Through

Bake in preheated oven for about 30 minutes until heated through.

Step 9: Add Remaining Cheese

Sprinkle remaining cheese on top and return to oven. Bake until melted, approximately another 5 minutes or so.

Step 10: Serve Warm

Serve warm as a delicious side dish that complements any meal beautifully. Enjoy!

How to Serve Savory Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe

Serving your Savory Sweet Potato Casserole can elevate any meal, especially during festive occasions. This dish pairs beautifully with a variety of accompaniments that enhance its rich flavors and creamy texture.

With Roasted Vegetables

• Roasted Brussels sprouts or carrots add a crunchy contrast to the smooth casserole, making for a balanced plate.

As a Holiday Side Dish

• Serve this casserole alongside your favorite holiday main courses like roasted chicken or turkey for a comforting feast.

Paired with a Fresh Salad

• A light salad with greens and vinaigrette can cut through the richness of the casserole, refreshing the palate.

With Grilled Meats

• Grilled chicken or beef complements the sweetness of the potatoes, providing savory depth to your meal.

As Leftovers

• Enjoy this casserole reheated as a filling lunch option or a quick dinner, paired with some steamed vegetables for balance.

How to Perfect Savory Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe

To ensure your Savory Sweet Potato Casserole turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Choose Fresh Sweet Potatoes: Select firm and unblemished sweet potatoes for the best flavor and texture in your casserole.
• Mash Thoroughly: Make sure to mash the sweet potatoes until creamy to avoid any lumps in your dish.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste the mixture before baking; feel free to add more herbs or spices according to your preference.
• Use Quality Cheese: Opt for good quality Swiss and Gruyere cheese for rich flavor and excellent melting properties.
• Monitor Baking Time: Keep an eye on the casserole as it bakes to avoid overcooking; it should be heated through but not dry.
• Let It Rest: Allow the casserole to sit for a few minutes after baking. This helps it set up nicely for serving.

Best Side Dishes for Savory Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe

To create a well-rounded meal with your Savory Sweet Potato Casserole, consider these delightful side dishes that complement its flavors.

1. Garlic Green Beans: Sautéed green beans with garlic provide a crisp texture that contrasts nicely with the creamy casserole.
2. Creamy Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw adds brightness and crunch, balancing the richness of the dish.
3. Herbed Quinoa: Fluffy quinoa mixed with fresh herbs offers a light yet filling option that pairs well.
4. Cornbread Muffins: These slightly sweet muffins enhance the overall flavor profile while adding warmth to your meal.
5. Maple Glazed Carrots: Sweet and savory glazed carrots are an excellent addition that echoes the sweet notes of the casserole.
6. Roasted Cauliflower: This nutty-flavored vegetable adds another layer of texture and can be seasoned to complement your dish perfectly.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making a Savory Sweet Potato Casserole, it’s easy to overlook some key details. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for:

• Using undercooked sweet potatoes: Ensure your sweet potatoes are completely cooked before mashing. Undercooked potatoes can lead to a lumpy casserole.
• Overmixing the ingredients: Mix just until combined. Overmixing can make the casserole dense and heavy instead of light and fluffy.
• Not seasoning enough: Taste the mixture before baking. Adjusting the salt and pepper at this stage ensures your casserole is flavorful.
• Skipping the cheese layer: Adding cheese on top creates a deliciously cheesy crust. Don’t forget to sprinkle extra cheese before the final bake!
• Ignoring storage tips: If you have leftovers, store them properly in an airtight container to maintain freshness.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Savory Sweet Potato Casserole in an airtight container.
• It will keep well for up to 3-5 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Savory Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe

• You can freeze the casserole before or after baking.
• Use a freezer-safe container or wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil.
• It will last for up to 2-3 months in the freezer.

Reheating Savory Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Cover with foil and bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until heated through.
• Microwave: Place a portion on a microwave-safe dish, cover loosely, and heat on high for 2-3 minutes. Stir halfway through for even heating.
• Stovetop: Heat over low heat in a pan, stirring often until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions regarding the Savory Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe:

Can I make Savory Sweet Potato Casserole ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare it a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just bake it when ready to serve.

What type of cheese works best for this casserole?

A mixture of Swiss and Gruyere cheese provides a wonderful flavor, but feel free to use your favorite melting cheese!

Can I add vegetables to this Savory Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe?

Absolutely! Vegetables like spinach or bell peppers can add extra nutrition and flavor.

How do I know when my casserole is done baking?

The casserole is done when it’s heated through and the cheese on top is melted and bubbly.

Final Thoughts

This Savory Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe is not only delicious but also versatile! It’s perfect as a holiday side dish or any family gathering. Feel free to customize it by adding different herbs or vegetables according to your taste preferences. Enjoy experimenting with this comforting classic!