Orange Pecan Mashed Sweet Potato Casserole

October 7, 2016

Welcome Fall with this zesty and flavourful sweet potato side dish! This Orange Pecan Mashed Sweet Potato Casserole is easy to make, and the perfect addition to your Thanksgiving table or weeknight dinner.

In past years I’ve kind of given Canadian Thanksgiving a bad rap. As a dual citizen, I’ve experienced both American and Canadian Thanksgiving and have maybe been a bit too #TeamUSA at times. While there’s certainly no denying that Americans can throw an epic feast, I also think Canadian Thanksgiving is a bit more timely when you consider that the fall harvest generally occurs in late September-October, and not after the first snowfall (Canada problems…) at the end of November.

But either way, I can appreciate any holiday that gives thanks to the friends and families in our lives but also for the beautiful fall bounty we’re adorned with. Squash, brussels sprouts, broccoli, eggplant and let’s not forget our fall citrus!

Every family seems to have their own preference when it comes to sweet potato casserole. Some like it topped with marshmallows and some like a brown sugar crumble on top. I went a completely different route and played up the flavors of the filling and then kept it simple by topping it with pecans.

Here’s What You Need

Sweet potatoes – look for sweet potatoes that are firm, with smooth skin. Avoid potatoes that have bruises or cracks if possible!
Olive oil – to coat the potatoes for roasting. Avocado oil works as well.
Orange juice – use freshly squeezed orange juice or store-bought juice!
Tahini – the secret ingredient! Tahini adds a delicious, creamy, slightly nutty flavor to the filling.
Pecans – I recommend using raw pecans as they will toast during the second baking.
Salt and pepper – to bring all of the flavors together!

How to Make Sweet Potato Casserole

STEP 1: Chop the sweet potatoes into cubes and coat with olive oil, orange juice, salt and pepper.

STEP 2: Roast at 400ºF for 30 minutes.

STEP 3: Add the roasted sweet potatoes to a food processor and process until smooth. Add in the tahini and orange juice and continue processing until well combined.

STEP 4: Add to a medium sized casserole dish and top with pecans. Bake for 15 minutes or until the pecans are toasted.

What to Pair It With

Whether you’re making this dish for Thanksgiving dinner or just a cozy fall or winter side, here are some serving suggestions:

How to Store Leftovers

If you have leftover sweet potato casserole, store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. I haven’t tried freezing but you should be able to freeze for longer storage as well.