Sweet Potato and Sage-Butter Casserole


photo source: Martha Stewart Living

I was trying to decide between sweet potatoes or regular mashed potatoes for my Thanksgiving meal.  Martha Stewart, the persnickety domestic goddess, reminded me there is no need to choose.  This recipe features both sweet potatoes and regular potatoes with sage-butter goodness and a crispy breadcrumb topping.  Yes please!

Sweet Potato and Sage-Butter Casserole
originally featured in Martha Stewart Living 
2 pounds sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch pieces
1 pound Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch pieces
4 ounces (1 stick) unsalted butter, plus 1 ounce (2 tablespoons), melted
2 1/2 tablespoons chopped fresh sage
1 1/2 cups whole milk, warmed
Course salt and freshly ground pepper
1 cup fresh breadcrumbs (from 3 slices white bread, crusts removed)

1. Place sweet potatoes and potatoes in a large saucepan; cover with water, and season with salt.  Bring to a boil; reduce heat, and simmer until potatoes are tender, about 9 minutes.  Drain; pass through a ricer into a bowl.
2. Preheat oven to 375.  Melt 1 stick butter in a small saucepan over medium heat, swirling occasionally, until golden brown, 5 to 7 minutes.  Remove from heat; add 2 tablespoons sage.  Stir butter mixture and milk into potatoes.  Season with salt and pepper.  Transfer to a 2-quart casserole dish. (Mixture can be refrigerated for up to 2 days.)
3. Combine breadcrumbs with 2 tablespoons melted butter and remaining 1/2 tablespoon sage.  Season with salt and pepper.  Toss to combine.
4. Top potato mixture with breadcrumbs.  Bake, uncovered, until bubbling around edges and breadcrumbs are golden brown, 30 to 40 minutes. (If browning too quickly, tent with foil.)  Let stand, uncovered, for 10 minutes.