This Browned Butter Savory Sweet Potato Casserole brings together the rich, nutty flavors of browned butter with the earthiness of sweet potatoes. The dish is topped with a crispy Parmesan crust that adds texture and flavor to every bite.
It’s a show-stopping side dish, perfect for family dinners or holiday gatherings. The balance of savory and sweet, combined with the fragrant herbs, elevates the humble sweet potato into something truly special. It’s an easy yet impressive dish that will become a staple in your recipe rotation.
Full Recipe:
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4 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and sliced
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1/4 cup unsalted butter
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1 tablespoon fresh sage, finely chopped
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1 tablespoon fresh thyme, finely chopped
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1/4 cup brown sugar
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1/2 cup cream
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Salt and black pepper to taste
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1/2 cup breadcrumbs
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1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Directions:
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Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a medium baking dish and set aside.
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Peel and slice the sweet potatoes into thin rounds and arrange them evenly in the baking dish.
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In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Continue cooking, stirring frequently, until the butter turns golden brown and smells nutty, about 5-7 minutes.
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Remove from heat and stir in the chopped sage and thyme. Let it cool slightly before adding the brown sugar and cream. Stir well until combined.
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Pour the butter mixture evenly over the sliced sweet potatoes, ensuring they are well coated. Season with salt and pepper.
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Sprinkle breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese over the top of the casserole.
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Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes are tender and the topping is golden brown and crispy.
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Serve hot and enjoy!
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 35 minutes | Total Time: 50 minutes
Kcal: 220 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
Introduction to Browned Butter Savory Sweet Potato Casserole
The Browned Butter Savory Sweet Potato Casserole is an indulgent and flavorful dish that combines the earthy sweetness of sweet potatoes with the rich, nutty flavor of browned butter. This dish is a perfect blend of comfort and elegance, making it ideal for family dinners, holiday meals, or any special occasion. The addition of fresh herbs, a creamy sauce, and a crispy topping elevates this casserole from a simple side dish to a star on your dinner table.
While traditional sweet potato casseroles are often associated with sugar and marshmallows, this savory version offers a more sophisticated take on the beloved root vegetable. The browned butter brings a layer of depth to the dish, complementing the natural sweetness of the potatoes while the Parmesan cheese adds a delightful savory crunch.
Why Browned Butter Makes a Difference
Browned butter, also known as beurre noisette, is made by melting butter and allowing it to cook until the milk solids brown, creating a deep, nutty aroma and flavor. This technique imparts a rich, slightly caramelized taste that enhances the overall flavor profile of dishes. When paired with sweet potatoes, the browned butter not only intensifies the dish’s savory notes but also brings out the natural sweetness of the potatoes in a unique way.
Using browned butter in this casserole transforms an otherwise simple dish into something memorable. The warm, golden-brown butter creates a sauce that coats the sweet potato slices perfectly, providing a luscious and comforting texture. This added richness also helps balance out the sweetness of the potatoes, making every bite a harmonious combination of flavors.
Health Benefits of Sweet Potatoes
Sweet potatoes are a nutritional powerhouse, packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. They are an excellent source of vitamin A in the form of beta-carotene, which is essential for eye health and immune function. Additionally, sweet potatoes are high in fiber, which aids in digestion and promotes a healthy gut. They also contain significant amounts of potassium, which supports heart health by regulating blood pressure.
While sweet potatoes are naturally sweet, their glycemic index is lower than that of regular potatoes, making them a better choice for those managing blood sugar levels. This makes them a fantastic addition to both savory and sweet dishes. In this casserole, the natural sweetness of the sweet potatoes is complemented by the savory components, creating a balanced dish that is both healthy and satisfying.
Tips for Making the Perfect Browned Butter Savory Sweet Potato Casserole
To ensure that your casserole turns out perfectly every time, here are a few helpful tips:
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Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh thyme and sage are the perfect herbs for this dish. They bring a fragrant, earthy flavor that pairs wonderfully with the richness of the browned butter. Be sure to chop them finely to ensure they are evenly distributed throughout the casserole.
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Watch the Butter: When making the browned butter, keep a close eye on it. Butter can go from golden brown to burnt very quickly, so stir it frequently and remove it from the heat as soon as it reaches a rich golden color.
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Layer the Potatoes: For the best texture, slice the sweet potatoes thinly and layer them evenly in the casserole dish. This allows the sauce to penetrate each layer, creating a creamy, flavorful bite with every forkful.
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Crispy Topping: The combination of breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese gives the casserole its signature crispy topping. If you want an even crispier texture, you can broil the casserole for a few minutes at the end of baking, just be sure to watch it closely to prevent burning.
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Make It Ahead: This casserole can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator until ready to bake. Simply prepare the casserole and cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. When you’re ready to serve, bake it as directed, adding a few extra minutes to ensure it is heated through.
Serving Suggestions
This Browned Butter Savory Sweet Potato Casserole is a versatile dish that pairs well with many types of main courses. Here are a few serving ideas:
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Holiday Feasts: Serve it alongside your holiday roast turkey or ham for a comforting and festive side dish. The rich flavors of the casserole complement the savory meats perfectly.
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Weeknight Dinners: For a simple weeknight meal, pair this casserole with roasted chicken or grilled steak. The casserole serves as a hearty side dish that can turn a regular dinner into something special.
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Vegetarian Meals: If you’re looking for a vegetarian main course, this casserole can be enjoyed on its own with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad. The combination of sweet potatoes and creamy browned butter makes it filling and satisfying.
Creative Variations
While this dish is delicious as is, it also offers plenty of room for creative variations. Here are a few ideas to personalize your casserole:
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Add Nuts: For extra texture, consider adding roasted pecans or walnuts to the topping. The crunchy nuts will provide a nice contrast to the soft potatoes and enhance the overall flavor.
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Spicy Kick: If you enjoy a bit of heat, try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the browned butter sauce. The spice will add an interesting contrast to the sweetness of the potatoes.
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Cheese Variations: While Parmesan is a classic choice for this casserole, feel free to experiment with other cheeses like Gruyère or cheddar for a different flavor profile.
Conclusion: Why This Casserole is a Must-Try
The Browned Butter Savory Sweet Potato Casserole is a perfect example of how simple ingredients can come together to create something extraordinary. The combination of sweet potatoes, browned butter, fresh herbs, and Parmesan cheese makes this dish a must-try for any home cook looking to impress family and guests. It’s a dish that works for any occasion—whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a grand holiday feast—and it’s sure to become a staple in your recipe collection.
With its rich flavor, creamy texture, and satisfying crunch, this casserole is the ultimate comfort food with a gourmet twist. It’s the kind of dish that you’ll be proud to serve, and once you try it, you’ll understand why it’s destined to be a favorite for years to come.