Sweet Potato and Apple Casserole

Sweet Potato and Apple Casserole is a comforting, wholesome dish that perfectly blends the natural sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes with the tart brightness of apples. It’s a cozy, flavorful side that’s ideal for holiday dinners, family gatherings, or any time you crave a hearty and slightly sweet addition to your meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This casserole combines two classic fall ingredients into a dish that’s both hearty and refreshing. It’s naturally sweet without being overwhelming, and the tender texture of the baked sweet potatoes and apples makes every bite irresistible. Plus, it’s easy to prepare and can even be made ahead, making it a stress-free addition to any menu.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Sweet potatoes, peeled and sliced
• Apples, peeled, cored, and sliced
• Brown sugar
• Butter
• Ground cinnamon
• Ground nutmeg
• Lemon juice
• Salt
• Chopped pecans (optional)

Directions

this recipe

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a casserole dish.
2. In a large pot, bring water to a boil and cook the sweet potato slices for about 8-10 minutes until just tender. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large mixing bowl, toss the apple slices with lemon juice to prevent browning.
4. Layer half of the sweet potatoes and apples in the prepared dish.
5. Sprinkle with half of the brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and a pinch of salt. Dot with half of the butter.
6. Repeat the layers with the remaining sweet potatoes, apples, sugar, spices, salt, and butter.
7. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes.
8. Remove the foil, sprinkle chopped pecans on top if using, and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the top is lightly golden and the apples are tender.
9. Let cool slightly before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields about 8 servings.
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 40-45 minutes

Variations

• Add a drizzle of maple syrup before baking for extra richness.
• Use different apple varieties like Granny Smith for a tart contrast or Honeycrisp for extra sweetness.
• Include a sprinkle of dried cranberries or raisins between the layers for added texture and flavor.
• Make it dairy-free by substituting coconut oil or a vegan butter alternative.
• Add a dash of ground cloves or ginger for a spicier flavor profile.

Storage/Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
To reheat, cover with foil and warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 15-20 minutes, or microwave individual portions for about 1-2 minutes until heated through.
The casserole can also be frozen for up to 2 months; thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

FAQs

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, assemble the casserole a day in advance, cover it tightly, and refrigerate until ready to bake.

What type of apples work best for this recipe?

Firm varieties like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji work best as they hold their shape during baking.

Can I skip the pecans?

Absolutely, the pecans are optional and can be omitted for a nut-free version.

Should the sweet potatoes be fully cooked before baking?

They should be par-cooked, just until tender but not falling apart, as they will continue to cook in the oven.

Can I add marshmallows on top?

Yes, you can add marshmallows during the last few minutes of baking for a sweeter, more traditional topping.

How can I make this casserole healthier?

Reduce the amount of brown sugar and butter, and add a few more apples for natural sweetness.

Is it necessary to peel the apples and sweet potatoes?

Peeling is recommended for a smoother texture, but you can leave the skins on for added fiber and a rustic look.

What size casserole dish should I use?

A standard 9×13-inch baking dish works perfectly for this recipe.

Can I use canned sweet potatoes?

You can, but make sure to drain them well and skip the par-boiling step.

How do I prevent the casserole from becoming too watery?

Use firm apples and don’t overcook the sweet potatoes before assembling the casserole.

Conclusion

Sweet Potato and Apple Casserole is a deliciously comforting dish that brings together the best of sweet and savory flavors. It’s simple to prepare, easy to customize, and perfect for everything from festive feasts to cozy family dinners. Once you try it, it’s sure to become a favorite go-to side for any occasion.

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