Paula Deen Sweet Potato Soufflé Recipe

This is a straightforward homemade version of Paula Deen’s sweet potato soufflé — light, nutty, a touch of citrus, and just sweet enough without being dessert. Great for holidays, but honestly… I’d eat it on a random Tuesday.

Why You’ll Love It

• Sweet but not cloying — maple syrup over sugar.
• Light texture thanks to whipped egg whites.
• The orange zest makes it pop.
• Pecans add crunch in every bite.
• Can be prepped ahead if you’re juggling other dishes.

Ingredients

• 1 3/4 lbs sweet potatoes, peeled & cubed
• 3 tbsp olive oil
• 1/3 cup maple syrup (more or less to taste)
• 1 tsp salt, divided
• 1/4 tsp nutmeg
• 1/2 tsp cinnamon
• 4 large eggs (2 whole, 2 whites only)
• 1 tbsp orange zest
• 3 tbsp fresh orange juice
• 1/2 cup toasted pecans, chopped (divided)

How to Make It

1. Boil the potatoes: Cook with 1/2 tsp salt until fork-tender, about 15 minutes. Drain well.
2. Let them breathe: Cool for 10 minutes so you’re not scrambling eggs in the next step.
3. Get the whites ready: Whip egg whites to stiff peaks — stash in the fridge so they don’t collapse.
4. Mash it smooth: Beat sweet potatoes until totally smooth.
5. Flavor boost: Mix in olive oil, maple syrup, remaining salt, spices, egg yolks, orange zest & juice, plus half the pecans.
6. Fold with care: Gently fold in whipped egg whites — no white streaks, but don’t overdo it.
7. Bake it off: Spread into greased casserole, top with remaining pecans, bake at 350°F for 30 minutes. Serve immediately.

Common Mistakes and How to Dodge Them

• Soufflé collapse panic: They all fall a little after cooling — totally normal.
• Potatoes too wet: Drain well after boiling or the texture won’t hold.
• Overmixing whites: Gentle folds keep it airy.

Storage and Reheating

• Fridge: Up to 3 days, covered.
• Reheat: Oven at 325°F until warmed through; microwave works but loses crisp top.
• Make-ahead: Prep mixture without eggs, refrigerate, then fold in eggs right before baking.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Can I use yams instead?
  Yep — just know they’re sweeter and slightly different texture.
• What if I hate nuts?
  Skip ‘em or sub breadcrumbs for a little crunch.
• Can I use bottled OJ?
  Fresh is better, but bottled works in a pinch.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving):

Calories: 250 | Fat: 12g | Carbs: 31g | Protein: 5g | Sodium: 382mg | Sugar: 13g

Try More Recipes:

• Paula Deen Scalloped Potatoes Recipe
• Paula Deen Creamed Potatoes Recipe
• Paula Deen Mashed Potatoes Recipe