Savory Vegan Sweet Potato Casserole – A Perfect Thanksgiving Side Dish
As the holiday season approaches, we're all looking for delicious, comforting dishes to share with our loved ones. This Savory Vegan Sweet Potato Casserole is the perfect addition to your Thanksgiving table. With its sweet and spicy flavors, crunchy pecan-brown sugar topping, and creamy mashed sweet potatoes, this dish is sure to become a new family favorite.
The best part? It's completely dairy-free! We've replaced traditional butter and milk with vegan-friendly alternatives, making this casserole accessible to everyone. Whether you're a long-time vegan or just looking for a delicious, plant-based side dish, this recipe is sure to impress.
So, let's get started! In this article, we'll walk you through the simple steps to create this mouth-watering Savory Vegan Sweet Potato Casserole. From the ingredients to the instructions, we've got you covered. And, as a special treat, we'll share some of our favorite serving suggestions and variations to make this dish truly unforgettable.
Ingredients
- 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 1/4 cup vegan butter, melted
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup chopped pecans
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup
- 1/4 cup non-dairy milk
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). In a large bowl, combine the cubed sweet potatoes, melted vegan butter, brown sugar, granulated sugar, flour, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Toss until the sweet potatoes are evenly coated.
- Step 2: Transfer the sweet potato mixture to a 9x13-inch baking dish. Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes are tender and lightly browned.
- Step 3: While the sweet potatoes are baking, prepare the crunchy pecan-brown sugar topping. In a small bowl, mix together the chopped pecans, brown sugar, and maple syrup. Stir until well combined.
- Step 4: Remove the sweet potatoes from the oven and top with the pecan-brown sugar mixture. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the topping is crunchy and golden brown.
Recipe Card
Savory Vegan Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe
A delicious, dairy-free side dish perfect for Thanksgiving
🥔 Ingredients
- - 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
- - 1/4 cup vegan butter, melted
👨🍳 Instructions
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). In a large bowl, combine the cubed sweet potatoes, melted vegan butter, brown sugar, granulated sugar, flour, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Toss until the sweet potatoes are evenly coated.
💡 Make sure to choose high-quality sweet potatoes for the best flavor.
Step 2: Transfer the sweet potato mixture to a 9x13-inch baking dish. Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes are tender and lightly browned.
💡 Check the sweet potatoes after 40 minutes to avoid overcooking.
Ingredient Notes & Substitutions
Sweet Potatoes
Choose high-quality sweet potatoes for the best flavor. You can also use different types of sweet potatoes, such as Yukon Gold or purple sweet potatoes, for a unique twist.
Substitutions: None needed, but feel free to experiment with different sweet potato varieties.
Vegan Butter
Use a high-quality vegan butter that melts well and has a neutral flavor. You can also use other non-dairy alternatives, such as coconut oil or avocado oil, if preferred.
Substitutions: Coconut oil, avocado oil, or other non-dairy alternatives.
Pro Tips for Perfect Savory Vegan Sweet Potato Casserole
👩🍳 Cooking Tips
Make sure to not overcook the sweet potatoes, as they can become too soft and mushy. Check on them after 40 minutes and adjust the cooking time as needed.
👨🍳 Presentation Tips
Garnish with fresh herbs, such as parsley or thyme, for a pop of color and added freshness. You can also add a few toasted pecans on top for extra crunch.
Variations & Customizations
Spicy Sweet Potato Casserole
Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to give the casserole a spicy kick.
Herby Sweet Potato Casserole
Mix in some chopped fresh herbs, such as parsley or thyme, into the sweet potato mixture for added flavor.
Serving Suggestions & Pairings
🍽️ Best Served With:
- Tofurky or vegan roast turkey for a classic Thanksgiving combination
- Green bean casserole for a classic Thanksgiving side dish
- Cranberry sauce for a sweet and tangy contrast
🍷 Drink Pairings:
Pair with a glass of apple cider or a warm cup of tea for a cozy and comforting combination.
Make-Ahead Instructions & Storage
Make-Ahead Tips
Prepare the sweet potato mixture and crunchy pecan-brown sugar topping ahead of time and store them in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.
Refrigerator Storage
Store the casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
Freezer Storage
Freeze the casserole in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
Troubleshooting & Common Questions
Q: What if my sweet potatoes are too soft?
A: If your sweet potatoes are too soft, you can try adding a little more flour to the mixture to help absorb the excess moisture. Alternatively, you can bake the casserole for a shorter amount of time to prevent overcooking.
Q: Can I use other types of non-dairy milk?
A: Yes, you can use other types of non-dairy milk, such as almond or soy milk, in place of the non-dairy milk called for in the recipe. Just be sure to choose an unsweetened and unflavored variety to avoid affecting the flavor of the casserole.
Final Thoughts
This Savory Vegan Sweet Potato Casserole is a game-changer for any Thanksgiving gathering. With its perfect balance of sweet and spicy flavors, crunchy pecan-brown sugar topping, and creamy mashed sweet potatoes, this dish is sure to become a new family favorite. So go ahead, give it a try, and enjoy the warmth and comfort it brings to your holiday table!
