If you’re on the lookout for a comforting, sweet, and subtly spiced side dish that feels like a warm hug from the inside, this Apple and Yam Casserole Recipe will quickly become one of your go-tos. Combining tender yams and luscious apple pie filling with crunchy walnuts and a hint of nutmeg, this casserole blends sweet, earthy, and nutty flavors in such a dreamy way that every bite feels like a celebration of cozy home cooking. It’s incredibly simple, yet irresistibly delicious—a perfect dish to bring a sense of tradition and warmth to your table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Apple and Yam Casserole Recipe is a wonderful example of how a few simple ingredients can come together to create something truly special. Each ingredient plays a role in balancing texture and flavor, from the soft, sweet yams to the crunchy walnuts that top the dish with a delightful contrast.
- 21 oz can apple pie filling: Adds a sweet, cinnamon-kissed apple flavor that’s ready to go without any extra prep.
- 30 oz can whole yams, drained and cut in half: Offers a soft, creamy base that absorbs the apple juices beautifully.
- 3 tablespoons butter: Sprinkled over the mixture to create a rich, golden finish and a subtle savory note.
- 1 cup finely chopped walnuts: Brings a satisfying crunch and a hint of earthiness to contrast the sweetness.
- 1 teaspoon nutmeg: Infuses the casserole with a warm, aromatic spice that ties all the flavors together.
How to Make Apple and Yam Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start by heating your oven to 325 degrees Fahrenheit to get the perfect baking temperature. Then, grab a 9 x 13-inch baking dish and give it a good spray with cooking spray. This ensures your delicious casserole won’t stick and will be easy to serve once baked.
Step 2: Combine Apples and Yams
Next, place the canned apple pie filling and the drained, halved yams directly into the prepared baking dish. This straightforward step means you’re layering in both the sweetness of the apples and the creamy texture of the yams, creating a beautiful base that’s full of flavor.
Step 3: Mix Walnuts and Nutmeg
In a small bowl, stir together the finely chopped walnuts and the nutmeg. This simple seasoning blend will give your casserole that perfect warming spice, while the walnuts add a lovely crunch that complements the softness of the baked apples and yams.
Step 4: Add Butter and Nut Mixture
Dot the casserole with butter, spreading these little bits randomly over the top of the mixture to melt down during baking, enriching the dish. Then sprinkle the walnut and nutmeg mixture evenly over everything, providing a beautiful textured top that will toast up nicely in the oven.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Pop your assembled casserole into the oven and bake for 30 minutes. As it bakes, the flavors meld together, the nuts toast, and the butter melts into a rich sauce that ties all the ingredients beautifully. When it comes out, it’s ready to enjoy immediately!
How to Serve Apple and Yam Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
For an inviting presentation, consider sprinkling a few extra chopped walnuts on top once it’s out of the oven for added texture. A light dusting of cinnamon or a fresh drizzle of honey can also brighten the flavors and add a touch of elegance.
Side Dishes
This Apple and Yam Casserole pairs wonderfully with savory mains like roasted turkey, baked ham, or herb-crusted chicken. Its sweet and nutty profile also complements green vegetable sides, such as sautéed green beans or a crisp garden salad, balancing the richness of the casserole.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve this casserole in individual ramekins topped with a dollop of whipped cream or a spoonful of vanilla Greek yogurt. It can even play double duty as a dessert or a sweet breakfast side. Try layering it in clear glasses for an eye-catching presentation at holiday gatherings.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors meld even more after resting, making it even tastier the next day as a comforting quick meal or snack.
Freezing
This Apple and Yam Casserole Recipe freezes beautifully. Place cooled portions in freezer-safe containers or bags and freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best texture and flavor.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the casserole in a 350-degree oven covered with foil for about 20 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave individual servings but be mindful to heat gently to preserve the texture of the walnuts and yams.
FAQs
Can I use fresh yams instead of canned?
Absolutely! Fresh yams can be pre-cooked by boiling or roasting until tender, then halved and used in place of canned yams. This adds a homemade touch but takes a bit more preparation time.
Is this casserole suitable for a vegan diet?
This recipe includes butter, which is dairy, so to make it vegan-friendly, you can substitute vegan butter or coconut oil. The rest of the ingredients are plant-based, making it easy to adapt.
Can I add other nuts besides walnuts?
Yes! Pecans or almonds can be great substitutes that add their own unique crunch and flavor profiles. Just make sure to chop them finely so they toast evenly with the nutmeg.
How sweet is this dish?
The apple pie filling provides a pleasant sweetness balanced by the natural earthiness of the yams and the warmth of nutmeg. It’s sweet but not overpowering, making it a versatile dish that complements savory meals well.
Can I prepare this casserole in advance?
You can definitely assemble the casserole a day ahead and keep it covered in the fridge. Just add the butter and nut topping right before baking to ensure the best texture and flavor.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly heartwarming about making this Apple and Yam Casserole Recipe—it’s easy, satisfying, and full of nostalgic flavors that feel like home. Whether it’s for a holiday feast or just a cozy family dinner, this dish is bound to bring smiles all around. Give it a try soon, and I promise it’ll become a favorite you want to make again and again.
Print
Apple and Yam Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
A comforting Apple and Yam Casserole combining sweet canned yams and apple pie filling, topped with a crunchy walnut and nutmeg mixture, baked to golden perfection. This easy-to-make casserole is a perfect side dish for holiday meals or cozy family dinners.
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 21 oz can apple pie filling
- 30 oz can whole yams, drained and cut in half
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 1 cup finely chopped walnuts
- 1 teaspoon nutmeg
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 325 degrees Fahrenheit. Prepare a 9 X 13 inch baking dish by spraying it lightly with cooking spray; set aside.
- Combine Fruit Mixture: In the prepared baking dish, evenly combine the canned apple pie filling and drained, halved canned yams to create the base layer of the casserole.
- Prepare Nut Topping: In a small bowl, mix the finely chopped walnuts together with the nutmeg to create a flavorful topping.
- Add Butter and Topping: Dollop the butter evenly over the yam and apple mixture, then sprinkle the walnut-nutmeg mixture on top, spreading it out evenly.
- Bake the Casserole: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30 minutes, until the topping is golden and the casserole is heated through. Remove and serve warm. Enjoy!
Notes
- Use canned yams and apple pie filling for convenience and consistent sweetness.
- You can substitute chopped pecans if preferred for walnuts.
- For a richer flavor, consider adding a pinch of cinnamon to the nut topping.
- Make sure to drain the canned yams thoroughly to avoid excess liquid in the casserole.
- This casserole pairs well with turkey or ham for festive meals.
