Praline-Yam Casserole
A sweet and savory praline-yam casserole with caramelized brown sugar, pecans, and a rich, buttery flavor, perfect for holiday dinners or comforting family meals.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook yams in microwave or on stove until tender.
- Peel and mash yams in a large bowl.
- Beat in eggs, 1/4 cup of brown sugar, 2 tablespoons of melted oleo, and salt.
- Spoon mixture into a 1-quart buttered casserole.
- Arrange pecan halves over the top.
- Sprinkle with remaining brown sugar and drizzle 1/4 cup melted oleo on top.
- Bake uncovered at 375°F for 20 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of vanilla extract or a pinch of cinnamon to the yam mixture. If you don't have oleo, unsalted butter is a great substitute. Ensure the yams are fully tender for easier mashing. You can also replace pecans with walnuts or omit nuts completely for a nut-free version.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole makes a delightful side dish for holiday meals or family gatherings, pairing wonderfully with roasted meats or vegetarian mains. Serve alongside Tangy Hollandaise Sauce for an added flavor boost, or enjoy it as a comforting breakfast dish. It can also be served warm or at room temperature.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Praline-Yam Casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, place individual portions in the microwave for about 1-2 minutes or bake in a preheated oven at 350°F until warmed through, approximately 10-15 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Praline-Yam Casserole contains roughly 43 calories, with 1g protein, 9g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1191mg per serving (52% of the Daily Value).
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 use sweet potatoes instead of yams?
Yes, sweet potatoes can be used as a substitute for yams in this recipe. They will provide a similar sweetness and texture, though the flavor may slightly differ. Adjust the sugar based on the sweetness of the sweet potatoes.
How can I make this casserole ahead of time?
You can prepare the yam mixture a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Assemble the casserole, but hold off on adding the pecans and final sprinkling of brown sugar until just before baking to maintain freshness.
What can I serve with Praline-Yam Casserole?
This casserole pairs beautifully with roasted turkey, ham, or a hearty vegetarian main like Dirty Rice Casserole. For a complete meal, consider serving a fresh green salad alongside to balance the richness of 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).