Vegetarian Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe for Every Occasion

Sweet potato casserole is a beloved classic, especially around the holidays, but it’s delicious any time of year! This vegetarian sweet potato casserole recipe takes the traditional dish to a whole new level by incorporating wholesome, plant-based ingredients that are both comforting and nutritious.

The natural sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes blends perfectly with a crunchy, flavorful pecan topping, creating a delightful contrast in textures and tastes. Whether you’re preparing for a festive gathering or a cozy family dinner, this casserole is sure to please everyone at the table.

What makes this recipe stand out is its simplicity and versatility. It’s easy to prepare, uses accessible ingredients, and can be customized to your liking.

Plus, it’s packed with vitamins, fiber, and antioxidants from the sweet potatoes, making it a healthier twist on a traditional favorite. If you love hearty vegetarian dishes, you’ll find this sweet potato casserole recipe a go-to comfort food that’s both satisfying and nourishing.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This vegetarian sweet potato casserole is a perfect blend of creamy and crunchy textures, with a subtle mix of warm spices that enhance the natural flavor of sweet potatoes. It’s incredibly easy to make, requiring just one bowl for the sweet potatoes and a quick mix for the topping.

The dish is naturally vegetarian and can be adapted to be vegan by swapping the butter for plant-based alternatives. It’s a crowd-pleaser that works wonderfully as a side dish or even a light main course.

Plus, it’s a fantastic way to get extra servings of veggies into your diet, making it both tasty and nutritious.

For more delicious vegetarian recipes, check out Vegetarian Southern Recipes That Everyone Will Love and Vegetarian Middle Eastern Recipes for Easy, Flavorful Meals. If you enjoy baking, don’t miss the Vegetarian Date Cake Recipe: Moist, Easy, and Delicious.

Ingredients

• 4 large sweet potatoes (about 3 pounds), peeled and cubed
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter (or vegan butter alternative)
• 1/4 cup brown sugar (light or dark)
• 1/2 cup milk (dairy or plant-based)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 1/2 cups pecans, chopped
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup packed brown sugar (for topping)
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted (or vegan butter alternative, for topping)

Equipment

• Large pot or steamer for cooking sweet potatoes
• Large mixing bowl
• Potato masher or electric mixer
• Measuring cups and spoons
• 9×13 inch baking dish
• Mixing spoon or spatula
• Oven

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease your 9×13 inch baking dish with a little butter or oil.
2. Cook the sweet potatoes: Place the peeled and cubed sweet potatoes in a large pot and cover with water. Bring to a boil and cook until tender, about 15-20 minutes. Drain well.
3. Mash the sweet potatoes: Transfer the cooked sweet potatoes to a large mixing bowl. Add the 1/4 cup butter, 1/4 cup brown sugar, milk, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Mash until smooth and creamy using a potato masher or electric mixer.
4. Prepare the topping: In a separate bowl, combine the chopped pecans, flour, 1/2 cup brown sugar, and melted butter. Stir until the mixture is crumbly and well combined.
5. Assemble the casserole: Spread the mashed sweet potato mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the pecan topping evenly over the mashed sweet potatoes.
6. Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes or until the topping is golden brown and crisp.
7. Serve warm: Let the casserole cool slightly before serving. This dish is best enjoyed fresh but can be reheated gently the next day.

Tips & Variations

For a vegan version, substitute the butter with coconut oil or a vegan butter alternative, and use plant-based milk like almond or oat milk.

If you prefer a sweeter casserole, increase the brown sugar in the mashed sweet potatoes or add a drizzle of maple syrup on top before baking.

Try adding a pinch of ground ginger or allspice to the mashed sweet potatoes for a warm, spicy twist.

You can also experiment with the topping by mixing in rolled oats for extra texture or swapping pecans for walnuts or almonds. For a bit of extra richness, stir in a few tablespoons of cream cheese or Greek yogurt into the sweet potato mash.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This vegetarian sweet potato casserole pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes, making it a versatile addition to your meal plans. Serve it alongside a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meatless meal.

It also complements other holiday favorites like roasted Brussels sprouts or green beans.

For a heartier option, consider pairing the casserole with a protein-rich dish such as lentil loaf or a hearty bean stew. If you want to keep things light, enjoy it as a side to your favorite vegetarian main course or even as a satisfying snack on its own.

Conclusion

This vegetarian sweet potato casserole recipe is a wonderful way to enjoy a classic comfort food with a healthy, plant-based twist. Its creamy texture combined with the crunchy pecan topping creates a dish that’s both satisfying and flavorful.

Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or a weeknight dinner, this casserole is simple to prepare and sure to impress.

By using wholesome ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, you can create a nutritious dish that everyone will love. Don’t forget to explore more vegetarian and vegan recipes on the blog to expand your culinary repertoire.

Happy cooking and enjoy the deliciousness of this sweet potato casserole!

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