Elvis-inspired Sweet Potato Dream Casserole
Indulge in the Southern flavors of this Sweet Potato Dream Casserole, inspired by the culinary favorites of the King himself, Elvis Presley. This delectable dish features creamy mashed sweet potatoes, rich brown sugar, and aromatic spices, topped with crunchy pecans and fluffy, toasted mini marshmallows. Perfect for winter gatherings or holiday feasts, this casserole is a delightful mix of sweet and savory that will have everyone singing its praises. It's not just a side dish; it's a decadent experience that embodies the spirit of Graceland.
6
Servings
N/A
Calories
9
Ingredients
Ingredients
sweet potatoes
4 medium (peeled and cooked until tender)
unsalted butter
4 tablespoons (softened)
brown sugar
1/2 cup (packed)
ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon
vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon
eggs
2 (beaten)
evaporated milk
12 ounces
pecans
1/2 cup (chopped)
mini marshmallows
1-2 cups
Instructions
1
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2
Peel the sweet potatoes and boil them in salted water until tender. Drain and let cool slightly before mashing.
3
In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed sweet potatoes with softened butter, brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and vanilla extract. Mix until well combined.
4
Add the beaten eggs and evaporated milk to the sweet potato mixture, stirring until smooth and creamy.
5
Transfer the mixture to a greased square baking dish, spreading it evenly.
6
Bake in the preheated oven for 35 minutes, or until the casserole is set and starts to brown slightly around the edges.
7
Remove from the oven and top evenly with chopped pecans and mini marshmallows.
8
Return to the oven and bake for an additional 5 minutes, or until the marshmallows are puffed and lightly browned.
9
Let cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your Sweet Potato Dream Casserole, Elvis-style!
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Elvis-inspired Sweet Potato Dream Casserole?
It is a Southern-style side dish featuring creamy mashed sweet potatoes, brown sugar, and aromatic spices, topped with pecans and toasted mini marshmallows.
How many servings does this recipe make?
This recipe yields approximately 6 servings.
What is the required oven temperature?
The oven should be preheated to 375 degrees Fahrenheit or 190 degrees Celsius.
How do I prepare the sweet potatoes for the casserole?
Peel 4 medium sweet potatoes and boil them in salted water until tender, then drain and mash them.
What spices are used in the sweet potato mixture?
The recipe uses 1/2 teaspoon of ground cinnamon and 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract.
How much brown sugar is needed?
You will need 1/2 cup of packed brown sugar.
Does the recipe call for butter?
Yes, it requires 4 tablespoons of softened unsalted butter.
How many eggs are used in the mixture?
Two beaten eggs are added to the sweet potato mixture to help it set.
What type of milk is used in this casserole?
The recipe calls for 12 ounces of evaporated milk.
What kind of baking dish should I use?
A greased square baking dish is recommended for this recipe.
How long is the initial baking time?
The casserole should bake for 35 minutes before adding the toppings.
What ingredients are used for the topping?
The topping consists of 1/2 cup of chopped pecans and 1 to 2 cups of mini marshmallows.
How long do I bake the casserole once the marshmallows are added?
Bake for an additional 5 minutes until the marshmallows are puffed and lightly browned.
Is this recipe suitable for winter?
Yes, it is categorized as a winter recipe and is perfect for holiday gatherings.
Why is this dish called 'Elvis-inspired'?
It is inspired by the Southern culinary favorites of Elvis Presley and the spirit of Graceland.
Should the sweet potatoes be cooled before mashing?
They should be allowed to cool slightly after draining before you begin mashing.
Are the pecans added whole or chopped?
The pecans should be chopped before being sprinkled on top.
What is the texture of the finished casserole?
The casserole is smooth and creamy with a crunchy and fluffy toasted topping.
Can I use salted butter?
While the recipe specifies unsalted butter, you can use salted butter, though it may slightly alter the flavor balance.
How do I know when the casserole is set?
It is set when it starts to brown slightly around the edges after about 35 minutes of baking.
Is there any vanilla in this recipe?
Yes, 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract is mixed into the sweet potatoes.
What is the ingredient count for this recipe?
There are 9 primary ingredients used in this dish.
Should the marshmallows be mini or large?
The recipe specifically calls for mini marshmallows.
Can this be served as a dessert?
While often served as a side dish, its sweetness makes it a decadent treat that could serve as a dessert.
What tags are associated with this recipe?
Tags include sweet potato casserole, Elvis Presley, winter recipes, comfort food, and southern cooking.
Is the brown sugar packed?
Yes, the 1/2 cup of brown sugar should be packed.
How do I finish the dish?
Let the casserole cool for a few minutes after the final bake before serving.
Can I substitute evaporated milk?
The recipe calls for evaporated milk for richness; substituting may change the consistency of the dish.
Is the casserole sweet or savory?
It is a delightful mix of sweet and savory flavors.
What makes the topping crunchy?
The addition of chopped pecans provides a crunchy contrast to the soft sweet potatoes and marshmallows.