Roasted Sweet Potato and Apple Casserole
Every time the crisp air of fall arrives, I’m reminded of my favorite comfort dish: Roasted Sweet Potato and Apple Casserole. This warm medley fills my kitchen with a sweet and savory aroma that just screams cozy family gatherings. It’s like a hug from the inside out! Growing up, my grandmother used to make a version of this casserole, and it was always a highlight during Thanksgiving. There’s something magical about the combination of tender sweet potatoes and tart apples, all topped with a buttery, cinnamon-coated crust. This dish has the power to transport you back to those treasured moments spent around the table with loved ones, sharing stories and laughter. I love to whip this up for autumn gatherings or just a chilly evening at home with my family. You might find yourself making it not just for holidays but for any occasion that calls for warmth and comfort.
Recipe Snapshot
1 hr 5 mins
10 mins
55 mins
Medium
300 kcal
3 g
Paleo, Gluten-Free, AIP
14 g
Baking Sheet, Medium Bowl, 9Ă—13 inch Casserole Dish
Why This Roasted Sweet Potato and Apple Casserole Is So Good
Comforting Flavor Combination
The blend of sweet potatoes and apples creates a beautiful harmony of flavors. The earthiness of the sweet potatoes complements the natural sweetness of the apples, making every bite a delightful experience. The addition of cinnamon and brown sugar enhances this flavor partnership, providing a warm and inviting taste.
Perfect for Fall Gatherings
When I think of fall, I think of gatherings with family and friends. This Roasted Sweet Potato and Apple Casserole is a perfect dish to bring to the table during Thanksgiving or any family dinner. It’s not only easy to make, but it also impresses everyone who tries it.
Healthy and Nutritious
Not only is this dish delicious, but it’s also packed with nutrients. Sweet potatoes are an excellent source of vitamins A and C, while apples provide fiber and antioxidants. Together, they create a wholesome meal that feels indulgent without the guilt!
Easy to Prepare
This recipe is straightforward and requires minimal hands-on time. Once you prep the ingredients, it’s mostly a matter of layering and baking. You can even prepare it ahead of time and pop it in the oven just before serving, making it a hassle-free dish for busy days.
Customizable Topping
The topping is where you can have some fun! While I use a simple butter and flour mixture, you can add nuts, oats, or even a hint of maple syrup for extra flavor. It allows you to personalize the dish to your liking.
Delicious Leftovers
One of my favorite aspects of this casserole is how well it keeps. If you have leftovers, they taste just as delightful the next day. Warm it up for breakfast or as a side with your dinner! There’s something comforting about indulging in leftovers that remind you of family gatherings.
Everything You Need for Roasted Sweet Potato and Apple Casserole
Gathering the right ingredients can make all the difference in this Roasted Sweet Potato and Apple Casserole. The combination of rich, earthy sweet potatoes and crisp apples creates a delightful medley that’s not only comforting but also nourishing. Each component plays an essential role, ensuring that you experience the perfect balance of flavors and textures.
- 3 pounds sweet potatoes, diced in 1-inch chunks
- 3 to 4 tablespoons liquid-state coconut oil (olive oil may be substituted)
- Kosher salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 5 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- â…” cup light brown sugar, packed
- ½ cup all-purpose flour, plus more if necessary
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon kosher salt, or to taste
- 3 large apples, diced into 1-inch chunks (Fuji, Gala, Honeycrisp; I didn’t peel mine)
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon liquid-state coconut oil (optional)
Recipe Directions for Roasted Sweet Potato and Apple Casserole
Let’s dive into making this delicious Roasted Sweet Potato and Apple Casserole. The steps are simple, and soon you’ll have a warm dish to share with family and friends. Follow along, and remember to enjoy the process as much as the final result!
- Preheat your oven to 400°F. If you have a convection option, use that for even baking. Prepare a baking sheet by lining it with heavy-duty nonstick aluminum foil for easier cleanup.
- Next, add the diced sweet potatoes to the baking sheet. Drizzle them evenly with the coconut oil, then season with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper. Toss everything together with your hands until the sweet potatoes are well coated.
- Bake the sweet potatoes for about 25 to 30 minutes. You want them to be about 80% cooked through—softening but not fully tender yet. They should look slightly caramelized and have a lovely golden hue.
- While the sweet potatoes are baking, prepare your topping. In a medium bowl, combine the melted butter, brown sugar, flour, and cinnamon.
- Fluff the mixture with a fork until it forms small clumps, resembling pea to grape sizes. If the mixture seems too wet, gradually add more flour until you reach the desired clumping texture.
- Once the sweet potatoes are ready, transfer them to a 9Ă—13-inch casserole dish. Spread them out evenly so they form a nice base.
- Now, add the diced apples directly over the roasted sweet potatoes. Sprinkle with an extra dash of cinnamon and drizzle with more coconut oil if you like.
- Evenly top the sweet potatoes and apples with your clumpy mixture from earlier. Make sure it’s well-distributed to ensure every bite has that delightful topping.
- Reduce the oven temperature to 375°F and return the casserole to bake for another 30 minutes. Look for the apples to be tender and the topping to be lightly golden brown and set. The sweet potatoes should be fully cooked through.
- Serve immediately while it’s warm, and watch as your loved ones dig in with delight!
Things Worth Knowing
- Watch the bake time: Every oven is different, so keep an eye on the casserole as it bakes, especially during the last few minutes to avoid over-browning.
- Texture matters: The sweet potatoes should be soft yet hold their shape, while the apples should soften but not turn to mush.
- Variations: Feel free to experiment with different types of apples or even add nuts to the topping for extra crunch.
- Serving size: This casserole is great for serving a crowd but also delicious for leftovers, making it versatile for gatherings or weeknight dinners.
Change It Up
Sometimes, we all crave a little variety in our meals. Here are some tips to switch up your Roasted Sweet Potato and Apple Casserole:
- Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. Reheat in the oven to bring back that lovely texture.
- Freezing: This casserole can be frozen before baking. Just assemble it, cover tightly, and store for up to 3 months. Bake straight from the freezer, adding a bit of extra time.
- Pairing: Serve alongside roasted meats or as a side dish for a cozy vegetarian meal. It pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad.
- Spices: Experiment with different spices like nutmeg or ginger for a unique twist.
- Toppings: Consider adding oats, chopped pecans, or walnuts for a crunchy topping variation.
Serving Options for Roasted Sweet Potato and Apple Casserole
When it comes to serving your Roasted Sweet Potato and Apple Casserole, the options are endless!
- As a Side Dish: This casserole makes a delightful accompaniment to roasted chicken or turkey, complementing savory flavors beautifully.
- For Special Occasions: It’s perfect for Thanksgiving or holiday gatherings, adding a festive touch to your table.
- Comfort Food: Serve it as a comforting dish on a chilly evening; it’s sure to warm you up from the inside out.
- In a Cozy Bowl: For a casual dinner, serve it in individual bowls, allowing everyone to enjoy their own portion.
- With a Salad: Pair it with a light salad to balance the richness of the casserole, creating a well-rounded meal.
FAQ
Conclusion
The Roasted Sweet Potato and Apple Casserole is a delightful dish that beautifully combines sweet and savory flavors, making it a beloved addition to any table. It’s not only comforting but also brings a sense of nostalgia, reminding us of family gatherings and celebrations. I encourage you to try making it for your next holiday or cozy dinner at home. You won’t regret it!
Roasted Sweet Potato and Apple Casserole
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 400°F. If you have a convection option, use that for even baking. Prepare a baking sheet by lining it with heavy-duty nonstick aluminum foil for easier cleanup.
- Next, add the diced sweet potatoes to the baking sheet. Drizzle them evenly with the coconut oil, then season with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper. Toss everything together with your hands until the sweet potatoes are well coated.
- Bake the sweet potatoes for about 25 to 30 minutes. You want them to be about 80% cooked through—softening but not fully tender yet. They should look slightly caramelized and have a lovely golden hue.
- While the sweet potatoes are baking, prepare your topping. In a medium bowl, combine the melted butter, brown sugar, flour, and cinnamon.
- Fluff the mixture with a fork until it forms small clumps, resembling pea to grape sizes. If the mixture seems too wet, gradually add more flour until you reach the desired clumping texture.
- Once the sweet potatoes are ready, transfer them to a 9Ă—13-inch casserole dish. Spread them out evenly so they form a nice base.
- Now, add the diced apples directly over the roasted sweet potatoes. Sprinkle with an extra dash of cinnamon and drizzle with more coconut oil if you like.
- Evenly top the sweet potatoes and apples with your clumpy mixture from earlier. Make sure it’s well-distributed to ensure every bite has that delightful topping.
- Reduce the oven temperature to 375°F and return the casserole to bake for another 30 minutes. Look for the apples to be tender and the topping to be lightly golden brown and set. The sweet potatoes should be fully cooked through.
- Serve immediately while it’s warm, and watch as your loved ones dig in with delight!
Notes
- Tip: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. Reheat in the oven to bring back that lovely texture.
- Tip: This casserole can be frozen before baking. Just assemble it, cover tightly, and store for up to 3 months. Bake straight from the freezer, adding a bit of extra time.
- Tip: Serve alongside roasted meats or as a side dish for a cozy vegetarian meal. It pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad.
- Tip: Experiment with different spices like nutmeg or ginger for a unique twist.
- Tip: Consider adding oats, chopped pecans, or walnuts for a crunchy topping variation.
