This Cheesy Sweet Potato Casserole is a warm, comforting dish that’s perfect for gatherings. Creamy sweet potatoes topped with gooey cheese bring smiles all around!
The cheesy goodness makes this casserole a hit, and trust me, everyone will be reaching for seconds! I love serving it on chilly nights to warm up our bellies and hearts.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Sweet Potatoes: These are the star of the dish! Look for firm, unblemished potatoes. If you’re short on time, you can use canned sweet potatoes; just rinse them and adjust the seasoning since they’re already cooked.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar gives a lovely tang. However, you could swap in a mild cheddar or even mozzarella if you prefer a different flavor. For a dairy-free option, use a vegan cheese substitute that melts well.
Sour Cream: This adds creaminess and tang. You can replace it with Greek yogurt for added protein or use a dairy-free yogurt if needed. Cream cheese is also a tasty substitute for a richer texture!
Bacon: I love the crispy, salty flavor it adds. If you want a vegetarian option, feel free to omit the bacon or use diced mushrooms or smoked paprika to give a hint of smokiness.
How Do I Get My Sweet Potatoes Perfectly Mashed?
Getting those sweet potatoes just right is key for creamy texture. Start by boiling until fork-tender; this usually takes 15-20 minutes. Here’s how to achieve the best mash:
- Ensure the sweet potatoes are cut into uniform pieces so they cook evenly.
- Drain well to avoid watery mashed potatoes. Let them sit for a couple of minutes in the colander.
- Use a potato masher or ricer for a smooth finish. Avoid over-mixing as this can make them gluey.
After mashing, blend in your ingredients quickly to keep everything light and fluffy!
Cheesy Sweet Potato Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Casserole:
- 4 large sweet potatoes (about 3 pounds)
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/4 cup whole milk
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 slices cooked bacon, crumbled
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Cheesy Sweet Potato Casserole takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 20-25 minutes to bake. In total, you’ll need around 45 minutes to have this delicious dish ready from start to finish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven is warming up, you can prep the other ingredients to save some time.
2. Boil the Sweet Potatoes:
Peel the sweet potatoes and cut them into chunks. Place them in a large pot and cover them with water. Bring the water to a boil over medium-high heat and cook the sweet potatoes until they are tender, which should take about 15-20 minutes.
3. Mash the Sweet Potatoes:
Once the sweet potatoes are tender, drain them and transfer them to a large mixing bowl. Use a potato masher to mash them until smooth and creamy.
4. Mix in the Creamy Ingredients:
Add the melted butter, sour cream, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper to the mashed sweet potatoes. Mix everything together until it’s fully combined and creamy.
5. Add Cheese and Bacon:
Next, fold in half of the shredded cheddar cheese and half of the crumbled bacon into the sweet potato mixture. This will give it extra flavor and texture. Mix gently to combine.
6. Spread in Baking Dish:
Spread the sweet potato mixture evenly in the bottom of your lightly greased 9×13 inch baking dish.
7. Top with Cheese and Bacon:
Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheddar cheese over the top, followed by the rest of the crumbled bacon. This will create a delicious cheesy crust on top of your casserole.
8. Bake:
Place the casserole in the oven and bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and the edges are slightly golden.
9. Garnish and Serve:
Once out of the oven, let the casserole sit for about 5 minutes. You can garnish with freshly chopped parsley if desired before serving. Enjoy this creamy, cheesy, and bacon-studded sweet potato goodness!
This Cheesy Sweet Potato Casserole is perfect as a side dish for any meal, especially during the holidays or family gatherings!
Can I Use Frozen Sweet Potatoes for This Recipe?
Yes, you can! Just make sure to thaw them completely in the refrigerator before mashing. It may be helpful to drain any excess moisture to prevent the casserole from being too watery.
How Can I Make This Dish Vegetarian?
To make this casserole vegetarian, simply omit the bacon. You can add extra flavors by using smoked paprika or some sautéed mushrooms to provide a savory taste without the meat.
Can I Prepare This Casserole in Advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the sweet potato mixture a day ahead and store it in the fridge. When you’re ready to bake it, just sprinkle the cheese and bacon on top, then bake as directed. It might take a few extra minutes in the oven if starting cold from the fridge.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or in the microwave for quicker serving!
