Bourbon Sweet Potato Casserole: A Decadent Holiday Classic

Sweet potato casserole is a holiday staple, but this isn’t your grandma’s basic recipe. We’re kicking things up a notch with a generous splash of bourbon, adding depth and warmth to this already comforting dish. The bourbon perfectly complements the sweetness of the potatoes and brown sugar, creating a flavor profile that is both sophisticated and incredibly satisfying. This Bourbon Sweet Potato Casserole is the perfect addition to your Thanksgiving or Christmas table, guaranteed to impress your guests and leave them wanting more. Forget the marshmallows (though you *could* add a few if you really want!), we’re opting for a crunchy pecan streusel topping that provides a delightful textural contrast. Get ready to experience sweet potato casserole like never before!

Why Bourbon Sweet Potato Casserole?

Why settle for ordinary when you can have extraordinary? Here’s why this bourbon-infused version is a must-try:

* **Elevated Flavor:** The bourbon adds a subtle, complex flavor that elevates the entire dish. It’s not overpowering, but it’s definitely noticeable and appreciated.
* **Perfectly Balanced Sweetness:** The bourbon helps to balance the sweetness of the sweet potatoes and brown sugar, preventing the casserole from becoming cloying.
* **Crunchy Topping:** The pecan streusel topping provides a delightful textural contrast to the creamy sweet potato filling.
* **Impressive Presentation:** This casserole looks as good as it tastes! The golden-brown topping and vibrant orange filling make it a beautiful addition to any holiday spread.
* **Easy to Make Ahead:** You can prepare the casserole a day or two in advance and bake it just before serving, saving you time and stress on the big day.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Before you start, gather these ingredients. Don’t worry, most of them are pantry staples!

**For the Sweet Potato Filling:**

* **Sweet Potatoes:** 4 pounds, peeled and cubed. Choose sweet potatoes that are firm and free of blemishes.
* **Butter:** 1/2 cup (1 stick), unsalted, melted. Butter adds richness and flavor to the filling.
* **Brown Sugar:** 1/2 cup, packed. Brown sugar adds a caramel-like sweetness that complements the bourbon.
* **Bourbon:** 1/4 cup. Use your favorite bourbon! A good quality bourbon will make a noticeable difference in the flavor of the casserole. Maker’s Mark, Knob Creek, or Woodford Reserve are all excellent choices.
* **Eggs:** 2 large. Eggs help to bind the filling together.
* **Milk:** 1/4 cup. Milk adds moisture to the filling.
* **Vanilla Extract:** 1 teaspoon. Vanilla extract enhances the other flavors in the casserole.
* **Salt:** 1/2 teaspoon. Salt balances the sweetness and enhances the other flavors.
* **Cinnamon:** 1/2 teaspoon. Cinnamon adds warmth and spice to the filling.
* **Nutmeg:** 1/4 teaspoon. Nutmeg complements the cinnamon and adds a subtle warmth.

**For the Pecan Streusel Topping:**

* **All-Purpose Flour:** 1/2 cup. Flour provides structure to the topping.
* **Brown Sugar:** 1/4 cup, packed. Brown sugar adds sweetness and a caramel-like flavor to the topping.
* **Pecans:** 1/2 cup, chopped. Pecans add crunch and a nutty flavor to the topping. Walnuts can be substituted if preferred.
* **Butter:** 1/4 cup (1/2 stick), cold and cubed. Cold butter is essential for creating a crumbly topping.
* **Salt:** A pinch. Salt enhances the other flavors.

Equipment You’ll Need

Make sure you have these tools on hand:

* **Large Pot:** For boiling the sweet potatoes.
* **Potato Masher or Electric Mixer:** For mashing the sweet potatoes.
* **9×13 inch Baking Dish:** For baking the casserole.
* **Mixing Bowls:** For preparing the filling and topping.
* **Measuring Cups and Spoons:** For accurate measuring.
* **Oven:** For baking the casserole.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Now for the fun part! Follow these easy steps to create your own Bourbon Sweet Potato Casserole:

**Step 1: Prepare the Sweet Potatoes**

1. Peel the sweet potatoes and cut them into 1-inch cubes. This ensures they cook evenly.
2. Place the cubed sweet potatoes in a large pot and cover with cold water. Add a pinch of salt.
3. Bring the water to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to medium and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes are fork-tender. They should be easily pierced with a fork.
4. Drain the sweet potatoes thoroughly in a colander. Excess water will make the casserole soggy.

**Step 2: Make the Sweet Potato Filling**

1. Return the drained sweet potatoes to the pot. Add the melted butter, brown sugar, bourbon, eggs, milk, vanilla extract, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
2. Use a potato masher or an electric mixer to mash the sweet potatoes until smooth. If using an electric mixer, be careful not to overmix, as this can make the filling gummy. A few small lumps are okay.
3. Taste the filling and adjust the seasonings as needed. You may want to add a little more brown sugar if you prefer a sweeter casserole, or a pinch more salt to balance the sweetness.

**Step 3: Prepare the Pecan Streusel Topping**

1. In a medium bowl, combine the flour, brown sugar, chopped pecans, and salt.
2. Add the cold, cubed butter to the bowl. Use a pastry blender or your fingers to cut the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs. The mixture should be crumbly and slightly clumpy.

**Step 4: Assemble and Bake the Casserole**

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray. This will prevent the casserole from sticking to the dish.
3. Pour the sweet potato filling into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly.
4. Sprinkle the pecan streusel topping evenly over the sweet potato filling. Make sure to distribute the topping evenly so that every bite has a bit of crunch.
5. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the filling is heated through. The topping should be nicely browned and slightly crisp.
6. Let the casserole cool for 10-15 minutes before serving. This will allow the filling to set up slightly and prevent it from being too runny.

Tips for the Perfect Bourbon Sweet Potato Casserole

* **Don’t Overcook the Sweet Potatoes:** Overcooked sweet potatoes will be mushy and difficult to mash. Cook them until they are fork-tender, but not falling apart.
* **Use Good Quality Bourbon:** The bourbon is a key ingredient in this casserole, so use a good quality bourbon that you enjoy drinking. A cheap bourbon will have a harsh flavor that will detract from the overall taste of the dish.
* **Don’t Overmix the Filling:** Overmixing the filling can make it gummy. Mix just until the ingredients are combined.
* **Use Cold Butter for the Topping:** Cold butter is essential for creating a crumbly topping. If the butter is too soft, the topping will be greasy and won’t crumble properly.
* **Adjust the Sweetness to Your Liking:** If you prefer a sweeter casserole, add a little more brown sugar to the filling or topping. If you prefer a less sweet casserole, reduce the amount of brown sugar.
* **Add Marshmallows (Optional):** While this recipe doesn’t call for marshmallows, you can certainly add them if you like. Sprinkle a layer of mini marshmallows over the casserole during the last 10 minutes of baking. Watch them closely to prevent them from burning.
* **Make it Ahead:** You can prepare the casserole a day or two in advance and store it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to bake it, let it sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before baking. You may need to add a few minutes to the baking time if the casserole is cold.
* **Spice it Up:** Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder to the filling for a touch of heat.
* **Nut Variations:** While pecans are the traditional choice for the streusel topping, feel free to experiment with other nuts, such as walnuts, almonds, or cashews. You can also use a combination of different nuts.
* **Add a Citrus Zest:** A little orange or lemon zest can add a bright, fresh flavor to the casserole. Add about 1 teaspoon of zest to the filling.

Serving Suggestions

This Bourbon Sweet Potato Casserole is a delicious side dish for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any other holiday meal. It pairs well with:

* **Turkey or Ham:** The sweetness of the casserole complements the savory flavors of turkey and ham.
* **Roasted Chicken:** A simple roasted chicken is another great option.
* **Pork Loin:** The casserole also pairs well with pork loin.
* **Green Bean Casserole:** Another holiday classic.
* **Cranberry Sauce:** The tartness of cranberry sauce provides a nice contrast to the sweetness of the casserole.
* **Mashed Potatoes:** A classic side dish that goes well with everything.

Variations and Substitutions

* **Sweet Potato Alternatives:** While sweet potatoes are the star of this dish, you could also use other root vegetables like butternut squash or even pumpkin.
* **Bourbon Substitutes:** If you prefer not to use bourbon, you can substitute it with apple cider, orange juice, or even just more milk. However, the bourbon adds a unique flavor that is hard to replicate.
* **Gluten-Free Option:** To make this casserole gluten-free, use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend in the streusel topping.
* **Dairy-Free Option:** To make this casserole dairy-free, use a dairy-free butter substitute and a plant-based milk alternative, such as almond milk or soy milk.
* **Vegan Option:** To make this casserole vegan, use a dairy-free butter substitute, a plant-based milk alternative, and a flax egg (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons of water) to replace the eggs.

Storage Instructions

* **Leftovers:** Store leftover Bourbon Sweet Potato Casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
* **Reheating:** Reheat leftover casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or in the microwave.
* **Freezing:** You can freeze the casserole for up to 2-3 months. Let it cool completely before wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Bourbon Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe

Here’s the complete recipe, all in one place for easy reference:

**Yields:** 8-10 servings
**Prep Time:** 20 minutes
**Cook Time:** 35 minutes

**Ingredients:**

**For the Sweet Potato Filling:**

* 4 pounds sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
* 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
* 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
* 1/4 cup bourbon
* 2 large eggs
* 1/4 cup milk
* 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
* 1/2 teaspoon salt
* 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
* 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg

**For the Pecan Streusel Topping:**

* 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
* 1/4 cup packed brown sugar
* 1/2 cup chopped pecans
* 1/4 cup (1/2 stick) cold butter, cubed
* Pinch of salt

**Instructions:**

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Cook sweet potatoes: Boil cubed sweet potatoes until fork-tender (15-20 minutes).
3. Make the filling: Drain sweet potatoes and mash with melted butter, brown sugar, bourbon, eggs, milk, vanilla, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
4. Prepare the topping: Combine flour, brown sugar, pecans, cold butter, and salt. Cut in butter until crumbly.
5. Assemble and bake: Pour filling into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Sprinkle with streusel topping. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until golden brown.
6. Cool slightly before serving.

Enjoy your delicious and boozy Bourbon Sweet Potato Casserole! This recipe is sure to become a new holiday favorite.