Sweet Potato Casserole with Fresh Herbs

While sticky sweet marshmallow-topped sweet potato casserole might be tradition on your Thanksgiving table, this version offers an equally satisfying, yet more savory, option that leans more side dish than dessert.

Ingredients

• 3 lbs sweet potatoes

• 1/3 cup mixed herb leaves (sage, rosemary, and thyme)

• 5 Tbsp butter, split

• 2 leeks, thinly sliced

• 3 garlic cloves, minced

• 2 Tbsp maple syrup

• 1 cup heavy cream

• 1 egg

• 1 cup grated Parmesan

• 1 lemon

• 3/4 cup panko breadcrumbs

• 1/2 cup pecans, finely chopped

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F.

2. Split sweet potatoes in half, toss with olive oil and a sprinkle of salt, then roast cut side down for about 30 minutes or until fork tender.

3. Turn the oven up to 400°F.

4. While the potatoes cook, prepare the rest of the ingredients.

5. Stir the breadcrumbs and chopped nuts with 2 Tbsp olive oil and 1 tsp salt, then set aside.

6. Melt 5 Tbsp butter in a large pan and sauté sliced leeks and garlic until softened, about 6 minutes, adding the chopped herbs during the last 2 minutes.

7. Add the cream, bring to a simmer, remove from heat, and let cool slightly.

8. Whisk eggs and parmesan together.

9. Once the potatoes are cooled slightly, scoop out of the skin and place into a large bowl.

10. Add the cream mixture, eggs, parmesan, and maple syrup to the sweet potatoes, then either:

    • Mix with an immersion blender for a super smooth texture, or

    • Whisk well for a slightly chunkier texture.

11. Transfer evenly into a baking dish, then use a spoon or spatula to create peaks that will brown slightly in the oven.

12. Sprinkle on the breadcrumb mixture and bake until the top is golden and crispy and the center is warm, about 30–40 minutes.

13. Remove from the oven and zest the lemon evenly on top.

Thanksgiving Planning Tip

Make and refrigerate the casserole 1–2 days ahead, leaving the breadcrumbs separate. To finish, bring to room temperature for at least an hour before adding the breadcrumbs and baking.

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