Known as 'Sweet Dream Casserole,' it’s topped with pecans and tastes like Thanksgiving magic.

Cooktop Cove: Known as 'Sweet Dream Casserole,' it’s topped with pecans and tastes like Thanksgiving magic.

By Georgia Lynn

Sweet potato soufflé is a dish that brings back memories of family gatherings and the warmth of a bustling kitchen. This Southern classic has its roots in the rich agricultural traditions of the Midwest, where sweet potatoes are a staple crop. It's a dish that combines the earthy sweetness of sweet potatoes with a light, fluffy texture, making it a perfect addition to any holiday table. Whether you're looking to impress guests or simply want to enjoy a taste of nostalgia, this sweet potato soufflé is sure to delight.

This sweet potato soufflé pairs beautifully with roasted turkey or ham, making it a perfect side for Thanksgiving or Christmas dinners. For a complete Southern feast, serve it alongside green bean casserole, cornbread dressing, and a fresh cranberry relish. The sweetness of the soufflé also complements savory dishes like collard greens and glazed carrots, creating a harmonious balance of flavors on your plate.

Southern Sweet Potato Soufflé

Servings: 8

Ingredients

4 cups mashed sweet potatoes
1 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup melted butter
2 large eggs, beaten
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 cup milk
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1 cup chopped pecans
1/2 cup packed brown sugar
1/3 cup all-purpose flour
3 tablespoons melted butter

Directions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed sweet potatoes, granulated sugar, 1/2 cup melted butter, beaten eggs, vanilla extract, milk, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Mix until smooth and well combined.

Pour the sweet potato mixture into a greased 9x13-inch baking dish, spreading it evenly.

In a separate bowl, mix together the chopped pecans, brown sugar, flour, and 3 tablespoons of melted butter until crumbly.

Sprinkle the pecan mixture evenly over the sweet potato mixture in the baking dish.

Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the soufflé is set.

Allow to cool slightly before serving.

Variations & Tips

For a twist, try adding a splash of bourbon to the sweet potato mixture for a deeper flavor. You can also substitute the pecans with walnuts or almonds if you prefer. For a lighter version, use half-and-half or almond milk instead of regular milk. If you like a bit of spice, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the sweet potato mixture for a subtle kick.