There are some dishes that just embody the warmth and comfort of the holiday season, and this Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecan Topping is undoubtedly one of them. A beloved Southern classic, it graces tables as both a savory side dish and a decadent dessert, effortlessly adapting to your festive meal’s needs. Imagine a creamy, velvety sweet potato base, infused with the perfect balance of sweetness and spice, crowned with a crunchy, buttery pecan streusel. It’s a symphony of textures and flavors that promises to be the star of your next holiday gathering, from Thanksgiving feasts to Christmas celebrations.
This recipe isn’t just delicious; it’s also incredibly simple to prepare, making it a perfect addition to even the busiest holiday kitchen. Plus, its make-ahead capabilities mean you can enjoy a stress-free celebration, knowing this delightful dish is ready when you are. While we adore this version, if you’re a fan of a pillowy marshmallow topping, we’ve got you covered with our Sweet Potato Casserole with Marshmallows recipe. And for more festive inspiration, explore our extensive collection of Thanksgiving favorites.
The Ultimate Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecan Topping
Sweet potato casserole is more than just a dish; it’s a tradition. Our rendition, featuring a irresistible pecan streusel topping, is an absolute must-have for your Thanksgiving spread and makes cherished appearances throughout the year. What makes this recipe truly special is the harmonious contrast between the creamy, rich sweet potato filling and the sweet, crunchy pecan crumble. The filling itself is a masterpiece of flavor, combining naturally sweet potatoes with the comforting notes of brown sugar, butter, and vanilla extract, creating a velvety smooth texture that melts in your mouth.
While most commonly served as a delectable side dish alongside roasted turkey or ham, this casserole’s inherent sweetness allows it to easily transition into a show-stopping dessert. Its versatility is further enhanced by its convenient make-ahead nature, allowing you to prepare it a day in advance or even freeze it for future gatherings. This flexibility is a lifesaver during busy holiday preparations, ensuring you can enjoy precious time with loved ones without compromising on flavor or quality.
Key Ingredients for the Perfect Casserole
Crafting the perfect sweet potato casserole starts with selecting the right ingredients. Each component plays a vital role in achieving that rich, balanced flavor and delightful texture. Here’s a closer look at what you’ll need and why:
- Sweet Potatoes: The heart of our casserole! You can use various types of sweet potatoes, whether they are the light-colored, starchy varieties or the bright orange, moist ones like Beauregard or Jewel. A mix can also add complexity. Always wash and peel them thoroughly before cooking to ensure a smooth, pure filling. Fresh sweet potatoes are highly recommended over canned for superior flavor and texture.
- Brown Sugar: This adds a deep, molasses-rich sweetness that perfectly complements the earthy notes of the sweet potatoes. Both light and dark brown sugar work wonderfully, with dark brown sugar lending a slightly more intense, caramel-like flavor. Its moist texture also helps create a smooth casserole base.
- Eggs: Essential for binding the casserole ingredients together, eggs provide structure and richness, preventing the mixture from becoming too loose or watery. Use large eggs for consistency in the recipe.
- Butter: A cornerstone of Southern comfort food, butter infuses the casserole with a rich, decadent flavor and contributes to its luxurious, creamy texture. Salted butter can enhance the overall taste, but unsalted butter gives you more control over the sodium content, allowing you to add salt to taste.
- Milk: Whole milk or 2% milk is preferred for a creamy consistency, but feel free to use any type you have on hand. For a dairy-free alternative, full-fat coconut milk can provide a similar richness and a subtle, delightful tropical hint.
- Vanilla Extract: A touch of vanilla elevates all the other flavors, adding a warm, aromatic depth that makes the casserole truly irresistible. Don’t skip this!
- Pecans: The star of our crunchy topping! Use plain, unsalted pecans to control the seasoning. Whether they are whole or pre-chopped doesn’t matter much, as you’ll be chopping them finer for the streusel. Walnuts also make a fantastic substitute, offering a slightly different nutty profile.
- Corn Starch: A secret weapon for the pecan topping, cornstarch helps bind the butter and sugar, creating a crispier, more stable crumble that won’t melt away during baking. It prevents the topping from becoming greasy, ensuring that delightful crunch in every bite.
Sweet Potato Casserole Video Tutorial
How to Make Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecan Topping
Making this incredible sweet potato casserole is simpler than you might think. Follow these straightforward steps for a guaranteed crowd-pleaser:
- Prepare the Sweet Potatoes: Begin by peeling your sweet potatoes and cutting them into uniform 1-inch pieces. This ensures even cooking. Place the diced potatoes in a large pot and cover them with enough water. Bring the water to a rolling boil and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender. They should mash easily. Drain the water thoroughly, then return the cooked potatoes to the pot. Using a potato masher, mash them until they are smooth and free of large lumps.
- Create the Creamy Filling: To the mashed sweet potatoes, add the brown sugar, eggs, butter, milk, and vanilla extract. These ingredients will transform the simple mashed potatoes into a rich, flavorful filling. Stir and mash everything together until all the ingredients are well combined and the mixture is smooth and consistent. Once your filling is ready, pour it into a greased 9″ x 9″ baking dish. Set this aside while you prepare the irresistible pecan crumble topping.
- Craft the Pecan Crumble Topping: In a separate large mixing bowl, combine the brown sugar, cornstarch, finely chopped pecans, and melted butter. Use a spatula to mix these ingredients until they are thoroughly combined and resemble a coarse, buttery crumble. The cornstarch is key here for that perfect crunch! Sprinkle this delicious pecan crumble evenly over the sweet potato mixture in the baking dish, ensuring every spoonful will get some topping.
- Bake to Golden Perfection: Place your casserole in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven. Bake for approximately 35 minutes, or until the pecan crumble topping achieves a beautiful, lightly golden brown hue and the casserole is bubbling gently around the edges. This indicates it’s cooked through and the flavors have melded beautifully.
- Cool and Serve: Once baked, carefully remove the casserole from the oven and place it on a cooling rack. Allow it to rest for about 5 minutes before serving. This short resting period helps the casserole set slightly and makes for cleaner serving. Then, scoop, serve, and savor every glorious bite!
Pro Tips for Sweet Potato Casserole Success
Elevate your sweet potato casserole from great to unforgettable with these expert tips and tricks:
- Choosing the Right Sweet Potatoes: While any sweet potato works, for the creamiest texture, opt for moist, orange-fleshed varieties like Jewel, Garnet, or Beauregard. If you prefer a slightly denser, less sweet filling, Hannah or Japanese sweet potatoes can also be used, though you might need to adjust the sugar content slightly.
- Smooth vs. Chunky: For an ultra-smooth casserole, use an electric mixer after mashing by hand to get rid of any remaining lumps. If you enjoy a bit of texture, a simple hand masher will do the trick, leaving some delightful small chunks.
- Flavor Enhancements: A pinch of cinnamon, nutmeg, or a dash of allspice can deepen the holiday flavors of the sweet potato filling. For an extra layer of sophistication, consider adding a tablespoon of orange zest or a splash of bourbon to the sweet potato mixture.
- Perfecting the Topping: To ensure your pecan topping is perfectly crunchy and evenly distributed, avoid pressing it down too firmly into the sweet potato mixture. A light sprinkle allows for better air circulation and a crispier result.
- Toasting Pecans (Optional): For an even deeper nutty flavor in your streusel, lightly toast your chopped pecans in a dry pan over medium heat for 5-7 minutes before adding them to the topping mixture. Let them cool completely before using.
- Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on the casserole during the last few minutes of baking. The topping can go from golden brown to burnt quite quickly due to the sugar content. If it starts to brown too fast, loosely tent with foil.
- Serving Suggestions: This casserole is incredibly versatile. Serve it hot alongside roasted turkey, glazed ham, or a hearty pot roast. It also pairs beautifully with green bean casserole, cranberry sauce, and other classic holiday sides. And don’t forget, it makes an amazing dessert on its own or with a dollop of whipped cream!
Frequently Asked Questions
Absolutely! To prepare this casserole in advance, assemble the sweet potato mixture and spread it into your baking dish, but do not bake it. Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil and freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to bake, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator. The next day, let it come to room temperature while your oven preheats, then add the pecan topping and bake as directed.
While often confused in U.S. grocery stores, true yams and sweet potatoes are distinct vegetables. Sweet potatoes, commonly found in various colors (orange, white, purple), are typically sweeter and moister than actual yams. Real yams, originating from Africa and Asia, are starchier, drier, and have a rough, bark-like skin. In most American recipes calling for “yams,” sweet potatoes are the intended ingredient and can be used interchangeably.
Yes, roasting sweet potatoes is a fantastic alternative to boiling and can even intensify their natural sweetness and depth of flavor. Peel and slice the sweet potatoes as directed, then toss them with a little olive oil. Roast in a preheated 425°F (220°C) oven for about 45 minutes, or until they are tender and slightly caramelized. Then proceed with mashing and mixing as per the recipe.
This is one of the beautiful debates of holiday dining! Sweet potato casserole truly is a Southern classic that excels in both roles. Its rich, sweet, and slightly savory profile makes it perfectly suited as a hearty side dish alongside a main course. Yet, its indulgent nature and delightful pecan topping also make it a wonderful, comforting dessert. Feel free to serve it however best fits your meal!
Yes, with a few simple substitutions. For a dairy-free version, use plant-based milk (like almond or coconut milk) and a high-quality dairy-free butter alternative. To make it gluten-free, ensure all your ingredients (like cornstarch, if packaged) are certified gluten-free, and you’re good to go! Sweet potatoes, pecans, and other core ingredients are naturally gluten-free.
Make-Ahead, Storage, and Reheating Instructions
Planning ahead for your holiday meal? This sweet potato casserole is an excellent candidate for advance preparation:
- Make-ahead: You can prepare the sweet potato mixture up to 2 days in advance. Simply follow the recipe instructions for the filling and spread it into your prepared baking dish. Cover tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate. The pecan crumble topping can also be made ahead and stored separately in an airtight container in the fridge. On baking day, remove both components from the fridge while your oven preheats, sprinkle the topping evenly over the sweet potato base, and bake as directed.
- Refrigerator: Leftover sweet potato casserole can be stored in an airtight container or covered tightly with plastic wrap in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Freezer: For longer storage, freeze your unbaked casserole as described in the FAQ section. If you have baked leftovers, allow the casserole to cool completely, then wrap individual portions or the entire dish tightly in aluminum foil and plastic wrap. It can be frozen for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
- To reheat: For individual servings, simply warm in the microwave until heated through. For a larger portion or the entire dish, cover it with aluminum foil to prevent the topping from over-browning, and reheat in a 300°F (150°C) oven for about 15-20 minutes, or until thoroughly warmed. Remove the foil for the last few minutes if you want to crisp up the topping again.
Sweet Potato Casserole With Pecans Recipe
The Carefree Kitchen
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15 mins
35 mins
50 mins
8 people
Ingredients
- 1¾ pounds sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into 1″ pieces (about 3-4)
- 1/2 cup light brown sugar
- 2 whole eggs
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 ½ teaspoons vanilla extract
Pecan Crumble Topping
- 1 cup light brown sugar
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- 1 cup pecans, chopped
- 1/3 cup butter, melted
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175°C).
- Add the diced sweet potatoes to a large pot. Fill the pot with enough water to cover the potatoes, then bring to a boil. Boil for 15-20 minutes, or until fork-tender. Drain, then return to the pot and use a potato masher to mash until they are smooth.
- To the pot with the mashed sweet potatoes, add the brown sugar, eggs, butter, milk, and vanilla extract. Stir and mash together until all ingredients are well combined and the mixture is smooth.
- Transfer the sweet potato mixture to a greased 9″ x 9″ baking pan and set aside while you make the pecan crumble topping.
- In a large mixing bowl, add the brown sugar, cornstarch, chopped pecans, and melted butter. Mix with a spatula until combined and crumbled, then sprinkle evenly over the sweet potato mixture.
- Bake in your preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the pecan crumble topping is lightly golden brown on top and the casserole is bubbly.
- Remove from the oven and place on a cooling rack for 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy!
Video
Notes
- Make-ahead: Follow the recipe to make the sweet potato mixture and spread it into your prepared baking dish. Cover with plastic wrap and store in the fridge overnight. You can make the pecan crumb topping and store it separately in an airtight container in the fridge. To bake, remove the baking dish and crumble from the fridge while you preheat your oven. Sprinkle the topping evenly and bake as directed.
- Refrigerator: Store leftovers covered with plastic in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Freezer: Freeze your unbaked casserole by wrapping well with aluminum foil and storing for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge, then pull out the baking dish as you preheat the oven. Bake as directed.
- To reheat: Either warm in a microwave, or cover the entire baking dish with aluminum foil and reheat in a 300-degree oven for about 15-20 minutes.
Nutrition
Disclaimer: Nutritional values were calculated using a third-party tool and are provided as an estimation only.
Side Dish
American
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More Irresistible Holiday Recipes
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- No Bake Pumpkin Cheesecake: A delightful autumn-inspired dessert that requires no baking.
- More Easy Thanksgiving Side Dishes: Explore additional fuss-free options to round out your holiday meal.
- More Holiday Recipes: Discover a wide array of recipes to make every holiday special.
This Sweet Potato Casserole with its golden, sweet, and crunchy pecan topping is truly a centerpiece dish for any winter holiday table. Its harmonious blend of creamy sweetness and nutty crunch makes it an unforgettable part of any festive meal. Whether you’re serving it as a cherished side or a delightful dessert, it’s sure to bring joy and comfort to everyone gathered around your table. Enjoy the magic of homemade goodness!