Lighter Carolina Sweet Potato Casserole

This lighter Carolina sweet potato casserole brings all the warmth and flavor of a traditional holiday dish with a healthier twist. Made with naturally sweet ingredients and a crunchy pecan topping, this casserole is a must-have for any festive table.

Ingredients for the Best Sweet Potato Casserole

Filling:

• 4 sweet potatoes (~520g)
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
• 1 teaspoon cardamom
• 1/4 cup coconut sugar
• 2 eggs, lightly beaten
• 3 tablespoons oat flour (or all-purpose flour)

Topping:

• 1 cup crushed pecans
• 5 tablespoons oat flour (or all-purpose flour)
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 1/4 cup coconut sugar

How to Make Sweet Potato Casserole

1. Roast the Sweet Potatoes
   Preheat the oven to 400°F. Wash the sweet potatoes, pat them dry, and poke a few holes in them with a fork. Place them on a parchment-lined baking tray and roast until fork-tender, about 1 hour.
2. Prepare the Filling
   Once the sweet potatoes are soft and cool enough to handle, peel off the skin and transfer the flesh to a large mixing bowl. Reduce the oven temperature to 350°F.
3. Mix the Ingredients
   Add the melted butter, vanilla extract, shredded coconut, cardamom, coconut sugar, eggs, and oat flour to the bowl. Mash everything together using a potato masher or a hand mixer. A hand mixer will create a fluffier texture by incorporating air into the filling.
4. Assemble the Casserole
   Lightly spray a small casserole dish with nonstick spray, such as avocado oil. Spread the sweet potato filling evenly in the dish.
5. Prepare the Topping
   In a separate bowl, mix together the crushed pecans, oat flour, melted butter, and coconut sugar. Evenly distribute the topping over the sweet potato filling.
6. Bake to Perfection
   Bake uncovered at 350°F for 30 minutes or until the topping is golden brown and crispy.
7. Cool and Serve
   Let the casserole cool for at least 15 minutes before serving. Enjoy warm, and don’t forget—the leftovers taste amazing hot or cold!

What to Serve with a Healthy Sweet Potato Casserole

This healthy sweet potato casserole pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes, such as:

• Roasted turkey or chicken
• Steamed green beans or sautéed kale
• A fresh arugula and cranberry salad
• Quinoa or wild rice for a wholesome side

Perfect for holidays or everyday meals, this lighter Carolina sweet potato casserole is a delicious and nutritious way to enjoy a classic favorite!