When the cooler months roll in and I find myself reaching for my cozy sweaters, there’s one sweet and savory dish that always warms my heart: Bourbon Sweet Potato Casserole with Sweet ‘n’ Savory Bacon Pecans. The first time I made it, I was simply looking to revive my go-to Thanksgiving recipe, but what unfolded was a delightful surprise that has since become a family favorite.
Imagine the tantalizing scent of roasted sweet potatoes mingling with hints of vanilla and cinnamon, while the crunchy topping of bacon-studded pecans brings just the right amount of indulgence. This dish seamlessly marries comfort and elegance, proving that you don’t need hours in the kitchen to enchant your guests or fall in love with dinner all over again. Perfect for a festive gathering or a quiet weeknight, this casserole elevates the classic to something truly extraordinary. Let’s dive into the recipe and make some delightful memories!
Why will you adore Bourbon Sweet Potato Casserole with Sweet ‘n’ Savory Bacon Pecans?
Irresistible Warmth: This dish envelops you in cozy flavors, ideal for chilly evenings.
Unique Twists: The addition of bourbon adds depth, elevating the traditional sweet potato casserole.
Crunch and Creaminess: You’ll love the contrast between the creamy sweet potatoes and the crunchy bacon pecans.
Crowd-Pleasing Delight: Perfect for gatherings, this casserole is sure to impress your family and friends.
Simple Yet Sophisticated: Create a warm, inviting meal without spending hours in the kitchen, making it an easy choice for entertaining.
Elevate your next occasion and explore more comforting recipes that warm the heart!
Bourbon Sweet Potato Casserole Ingredients
• Let’s gather the essentials for a delightful dish!
For the Sweet Potato Base
- Sweet potatoes – these creamy gems are the heart of the casserole, offering natural sweetness.
- Brown sugar – a touch of this creates the perfect caramelization which complements the sweet potatoes.
- Vanilla extract – a splash enhances the overall flavor profile, making it warm and inviting.
- Cinnamon – adds a warm spice that pairs beautifully with the sweet base.
- Whole milk – gives the mixture a creamy texture; feel free to use almond milk for a dairy-free option.
- Salted butter – melting this adds richness; unsalted butter is fine too if you’re monitoring salt levels.
- Eggs – beaten eggs help bind everything together, giving it a wonderful texture.
- Bourbon (optional) – this elevates the flavor with its unique depth and warmth.
For the Bacon Pecan Topping
- Thick-cut bacon – frying this until crispy brings savory notes that contrast sweet potatoes perfectly.
- Brown sugar – a second dose of this sweetness balances the fatty bacon beautifully.
- All-purpose flour – helps to achieve a crispier topping; for gluten-free, use almond flour!
- Raw pecans – these nuts provide a delightful crunch and nutty flavor, making your casserole more exciting.
- Salted butter – another layer of richness for the topping; again, unsalted works if you prefer.
- Cayenne pepper (to taste) – a touch adds a hint of heat; dial back for a milder flavor.
- Fresh chopped sage – this herb brings earthy notes that enhance the flavor complexity.
- Fresh chopped rosemary (optional) – a fragrant herb that pairs wonderfully if you’re a fan!
Now that you have the ingredients beautifully laid out, you’re just steps away from creating a Bourbon Sweet Potato Casserole that will leave your taste buds dancing! Enjoy the process and the delightful meal ahead!
How to Make Bourbon Sweet Potato Casserole
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Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 400°F. Poke a few holes in the sweet potatoes with a fork to allow steam to escape, then bake them for about 1 hour until they’re soft and tender. Once done, slice them in half and let them cool.
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Prepare the Bacon Pecans: While the sweet potatoes are baking, grab a large skillet and cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until it’s crispy. Once it’s ready, transfer the bacon to a paper towel to absorb excess grease. In a medium bowl, mix together brown sugar, all-purpose flour, chopped pecans, melted butter, cayenne pepper, sage, and rosemary (if using). Add in the crispy bacon and stir until combined.
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Mash the Sweet Potatoes: Once the sweet potatoes are cool enough to handle, peel away the skins and place the flesh in a mixing bowl. Mash them well using a fork or potato masher. Stir in the brown sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, milk, melted butter, beaten eggs, and bourbon (if desired) until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Don’t forget to season with kosher salt!
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Assemble the Casserole: Pour the creamy sweet potato mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish, smoothing it out evenly. Take the bacon pecan mixture and sprinkle it generously over the top, ensuring an even distribution for that delightful crunch.
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Bake to Perfection: Now, lower your oven temperature to 350°F and bake the casserole for 35-40 minutes, until the topping is golden and bubbling. Serve warm, and for that extra flair, top it with a sprinkle of flaky sea salt.
Optional: Add a drizzle of maple syrup before serving for an extra touch of sweetness!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Bourbon Sweet Potato Casserole Variations
Feel free to explore these delightful twists that will make your Bourbon Sweet Potato Casserole even more exciting!
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Dairy-Free: Substitute whole milk with almond or oat milk to create a creamy base that keeps it vegan-friendly.
Coconut milk can also add a lovely tropical hint if you want to take it a step further! -
Nut-Free: Skip the pecans and replace them with sunflower seeds for a crunchy topping that everyone can enjoy safely.
This alternative maintains that delightful crunch without the allergen risk. -
Spicy Kick: Increase the cayenne pepper to 1 teaspoon or add diced jalapeños for an added layer of heat.
This variation brings a lively kick sure to awaken your taste buds! -
Maple Sweetness: Replace brown sugar with pure maple syrup for a naturally sweet and aromatic flavor.
The maple brings a warm, earthy tone that perfectly complements the sweet potatoes! -
Herb Infusion: Swap sage and rosemary with thyme or add nutmeg for a fragrant twist with a touch of earthiness.
Each herb can bring a unique character, making the dish feel fresh every time. -
Bourbon-Free: Omitting bourbon or substituting with apple cider will give you a lovely sweet depth without the alcohol.
Your casserole will still shine with warmth and flavor, perfect for family gatherings. -
Cheesy Delight: For an indulgent twist, mix in some sharp cheddar or cream cheese into the sweet potato base.
The added creaminess and flavor create a hearty casserole that’s hard to resist! -
Fruit Addition: Mix in diced apples or pears for a sweet and juicy surprise tucked within the creamy base.
This fruity twist harmonizes beautifully with the sweet potatoes and bacon, giving your casserole a refreshing dimension.
How to Store and Freeze Bourbon Sweet Potato Casserole
Fridge: Store leftover casserole in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through for the best texture.
Freezer: To freeze, let the casserole cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It will keep well for up to 3 months.
Reheating: For frozen casserole, thaw overnight in the fridge. Bake at 350°F for about 45 minutes until hot and the topping is crispy again. Enjoy your Bourbon Sweet Potato Casserole!
What to Serve with Bourbon Sweet Potato Casserole with Sweet ‘n’ Savory Bacon Pecans?
Create a meal that warms the heart and delights the senses alongside this comforting dish.
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Roasted Chicken: Juicy, herb-seasoned chicken complements the sweetness of the casserole, adding a savory note that balances the meal beautifully.
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Garlic Green Beans: Crisp-tender green beans sautéed with garlic provide a fresh crunch that contrasts the rich flavors of the casserole.
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Apple Cider Vinaigrette Salad: A light salad dressed with apple cider vinaigrette introduces tartness and brightness, making each bite of the casserole pop.
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Cornbread Muffins: These sweet, fluffy muffins are perfect for soaking up the casserole’s creamy sweetness, enhancing the homey feel of your dinner.
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Cranberry Sauce: The tangy sweetness of homemade cranberry sauce adds a festive touch and enhances the flavors, especially if served during the holidays.
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Sparkling Apple Cider: A fizzy beverage that complements the warming spices of the dish, making it a festive drink option for gatherings.
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Pecan Pie: Celebrate the pecan topping of the casserole with a rich and nutty pecan pie for dessert. The flavors harmoniously echo each other, making for a satisfying end to your meal.
Envision how these pairings create a culinary journey, turning a simple family dinner into a feast of flavors and textures!
Expert Tips for Bourbon Sweet Potato Casserole
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Choose the Right Sweet Potatoes: Opt for medium-sized, firm sweet potatoes. They yield the best flavor and texture for your casserole.
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Perfectly Crispy Bacon: Make sure to drain the bacon well on paper towels. This helps achieve crispiness and prevents soggy topping.
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Bourbon Balance: When using bourbon, start with a small amount and adjust to taste. Too much can overpower the sweet potato’s natural sweetness.
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Prevent Soggy Topping: Ensure your bacon pecan mixture is evenly distributed over the sweet potato base for a balanced crunch that complements the dish beautifully.
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Serving Tips: Serve your casserole warm and consider pairing it with roasted meats or a fresh salad for a delightful, harmonious meal experience.
Enjoy your journey creating this Bourbon Sweet Potato Casserole with Sweet ‘n’ Savory Bacon Pecans!
Make Ahead Options
These Bourbon Sweet Potato Casserole with Sweet ‘n’ Savory Bacon Pecans are perfect for busy home cooks who love to meal prep! You can prepare the sweet potato base up to 24 hours in advance by mashing the sweet potatoes and mixing in the brown sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, milk, butter, eggs, and bourbon (if using). Store this mixture in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain its vibrant flavor. The bacon pecan topping can also be made ahead and refrigerated for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to bake, simply assemble the casserole, sprinkle the pecans on top, and bake at 350°F for 35-40 minutes. This way, you’ll enjoy a warm and comforting dish with minimal effort on busy weeknights!
Bourbon Sweet Potato Casserole with Sweet ‘n’ Savory Bacon Pecans Recipe FAQs
What kind of sweet potatoes should I use for the casserole?
I recommend choosing medium-sized, firm sweet potatoes for the best flavor and texture. Look for ones without any dark spots or imperfections, as they will yield a creamier mash and a more delightful dish!
How should I store leftovers from the Bourbon Sweet Potato Casserole?
Absolutely! Store leftover casserole in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheating in the oven at 350°F helps preserve the texture, making it just as delicious as when it was first made!
Can I freeze Bourbon Sweet Potato Casserole?
Yes, you can! Let the casserole cool completely. Then, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. For best results, thaw overnight in the fridge before baking it at 350°F for about 45 minutes or until heated through.
What do I do if the topping doesn’t crisp up?
If your topping isn’t crispy, ensure you’re using thick-cut bacon and that it is well-drained on paper towels after cooking. Also, make sure to bake it long enough—if it’s bubbling but not browning, you can place it under the broiler for a couple of minutes, but watch it closely to prevent burning!
Are there any dietary considerations for the Bourbon Sweet Potato Casserole?
Definitely! The recipe includes eggs and butter, so it’s not suitable for those with egg or dairy allergies. For a dairy-free option, consider using almond or coconut milk and a dairy-free butter substitute. Additionally, the bourbon can be omitted for a family-friendly version!
How do I know when the sweet potatoes are fully baked?
You’ll know they’re done when they’re fork-tender. That typically takes about 1 hour at 400°F. If you poke the sweet potato with a fork or knife and it glides in easily, you’re good to go! Enjoy creating this delicious Bourbon Sweet Potato Casserole!
Bourbon Sweet Potato Casserole with Bacon Pecan Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 400°F. Poke holes in the sweet potatoes with a fork, then bake for 1 hour until soft. Slice in half and cool.
- In a skillet, cook sliced bacon over medium heat until crispy. Transfer to a paper towel. In a bowl, mix brown sugar, flour, pecans, melted butter, cayenne, sage, and rosemary. Stir in crispy bacon.
- Peel the cooled sweet potatoes and mash them in a bowl. Stir in brown sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, milk, melted butter, eggs, and bourbon until smooth. Season with salt.
- Pour sweet potato mixture into a baking dish. Top with bacon pecan mixture evenly.
- Lower the oven temperature to 350°F and bake for 35-40 minutes until topping is golden. Serve warm, optional to drizzle with maple syrup.