Boston Market's Sweet Potato Casserole features smooth, mashed sweet potatoes topped with a crunchy layer of toasted pecans and brown sugar, baked to golden perfection for a comforting blend of sweet, nutty, and creamy flavors.
Equipments
- Potato masher or electric mixer
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
- Baking dish (casserole dish)
- Spatula or wooden spoon
- Whisk
- Oven
- Saucepan (if melting butter)
- Knife
- Cutting board
- Aluminum foil (optional, for covering)
Ingredients
- 4 lbs (1.8 kg) sweet potatoes
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1/3 cup milk
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup light brown sugar, packed
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/3 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup chopped pecans
Sweet potatoes should be peeled and cooked until very tender to achieve a smooth, creamy mash essential for the casserole's texture. Use unsalted butter to control the saltiness, balancing sweetness from granulated sugar and brown sugar in the topping. Light brown sugar adds moisture and a rich, caramel-like flavor, while chopped pecans provide a necessary crunchy contrast. Be precise with measurements of eggs and milk to maintain the casserole's creamy consistency without becoming too dense or runny. Your copycat R. Sweet Potato Casserole from Boston Market will deliver the authentic sweet, nutty, and comforting flavors expected from the original dish.
Instructions
- Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Peel and cut sweet potatoes into chunks.
- Boil sweet potatoes in a large pot until tender (about 15-20 minutes).
- Drain sweet potatoes and transfer to a mixing bowl.
- Mash sweet potatoes using a potato masher or electric mixer.
- Add granulated sugar, 1/2 cup butter, milk, eggs, vanilla extract, and salt to the mashed sweet potatoes.
- Mix until smooth and well combined.
- Spread sweet potato mixture evenly in a greased baking dish.
- In a separate bowl, combine light brown sugar, flour, melted butter, and chopped pecans.
- Stir topping ingredients until well mixed and crumbly.
- Sprinkle pecan topping evenly over sweet potato mixture.
- Bake uncovered for 30-40 minutes, or until topping is golden brown.
- Let cool slightly before serving.
Substitution
Boston Market's Sweet Potato Casserole can be adapted by using canned sweet potatoes in a pinch, but fresh sweet potatoes will provide a richer flavor and creamier texture. If pecans are unavailable, walnuts or almonds offer a similar crunch and nutty taste to maintain the topping's signature texture. You can substitute whole milk with almond or oat milk for a dairy-free version without compromising creaminess. When baking, covering the casserole loosely with aluminum foil during the initial 20 minutes helps prevent over-browning while ensuring thorough cooking. For easier mashing, an electric mixer speeds up the process compared to a hand masher, especially with large batches of sweet potatoes.
Tips
Make sure to fully drain the sweet potatoes after boiling to prevent your casserole from becoming watery. When mashing, aim for a smooth consistency without over-mixing to preserve the creamy texture. You can lightly grease your baking dish to avoid sticking and ensure easy serving. Watch the topping closely during baking to prevent the pecans and brown sugar from burning, which could affect the final flavor.
Nutritions
Boston Market's Sweet Potato Casserole is rich in dietary fiber and essential vitamins like vitamin A and C, thanks to the mashed sweet potatoes. The pecans add healthy fats and protein, while the sugar and butter contribute to the calorie content, making this dish a higher-energy option. Your serving will provide antioxidants and minerals such as manganese and potassium from the nuts and potatoes. This nutritious combination supports immune health and provides sustained energy, perfect for festive meals or comfort food cravings.
Storage
Store your leftover Sweet Potato Casserole in an airtight container or cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil to maintain freshness. Refrigerate the casserole promptly, and consume it within 3 to 5 days for optimal taste and safety. Reheat individual servings in the microwave or warm the entire dish in a 350degF (175degC) oven until heated through.
Variation or Alternatives
For a variation in texture and flavor, try roasting the sweet potatoes instead of boiling them to deepen their natural sweetness and add a slightly caramelized note to your casserole. Substitute maple syrup or honey for granulated sugar in the mashed sweet potatoes to introduce a richer, more complex sweetness. If you prefer a dairy-free option, use coconut milk in place of regular milk and swap the butter for coconut oil in both the sweet potato mixture and topping. To customize the crunch, replace pecans with walnuts or toasted almonds, or add a sprinkle of cinnamon and nutmeg to the topping for a warm, spiced twist. Your dish will have a delightful balance of creamy, crunchy, and aromatic elements that enhance the classic recipe.
Allergies
Boston Market's Sweet Potato Casserole contains pecans, a tree nut that is a common allergen for many individuals. The dish also includes eggs, milk, and wheat flour, which can trigger allergic reactions in people sensitive to these ingredients. You should carefully review these components if you have known food allergies to avoid any adverse effects.
Why this recipe?
Boston Market's R. Sweet Potato Casserole is loved for its perfect balance of creamy sweet potatoes and crunchy, buttery pecan topping that delivers a comforting taste with every bite. The casserole's rich blend of spices like cinnamon and nutmeg enhances its natural sweetness, making it a festive favorite among customers. You'll find that recreating this dish at home allows you to customize the sweetness and texture to suit personal preferences, while also enjoying a fresher and potentially healthier version. Trying the copycat recipe is worth it because it brings the nostalgic flavors of Boston Market's signature side dish right to your own table.