Candied Yam Casserole
A sweet and buttery casserole of candied yams, brightened with orange zest and maple syrup, perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C).
- Cut each drained yam in half widthwise.
- Arrange yams in a shallow greased 1½‑quart baking dish.
- Sprinkle grated orange peel over the yams.
- Drizzle maple syrup evenly over the yams and peel.
- Dot the yams with butter or margarine pieces.
- Sprinkle coconut flakes over the top.
- Bake for 30 to 35 minutes, until hot and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the yams before baking. If you want a twist, substitute the maple syrup with brown sugar for a richer sweetness. You can also use fresh sweet potatoes instead of canned if you prefer a homemade touch; just boil and mash them before adding.
Serving Suggestions
This candied yam casserole is a perfect side dish for holiday meals, especially Thanksgiving or Christmas. It pairs beautifully with roasted meats or can be served alongside vegetarian recipes for a festive touch. Add a sprinkle of chopped pecans or walnuts on top before serving for added crunch and flavor.
Storage & Reheating
To store leftovers, allow the casserole to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered for about 15-20 minutes or until warmed through. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Candied Yam Casserole contains roughly 565 calories, with 4g protein, 54g carbohydrates, and 39g fat. It is a good source of dietary fiber (19% of the Daily Value) and iron (12% of the Daily Value). It also contributes 5g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole a day in advance. Assemble the ingredients in the baking dish, cover it tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, simply remove the wrap and follow the baking instructions. This makes it convenient for holiday gatherings.
Is there a vegan option for this recipe?
Absolutely! To make this candied yam casserole vegan, substitute butter with a plant-based margarine and use agave syrup or a similar vegan sweetener in place of maple syrup. This will keep the dish delicious while accommodating a vegan diet.
What can I use instead of orange peel?
If you don't have orange peel on hand, you can substitute it with lemon zest for a different citrus flavor. Alternatively, a splash of orange juice can also enhance the sweetness without the need for the peel. Both options will still bring a refreshing taste to the dish.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).