Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecan Topping Recipe

If you’re looking for a dish that perfectly walks the line between dessert and side, the Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecan Topping is an absolute must-try. Imagine tender sweet potatoes mashed and enriched with creamy butter, warm vanilla, and just a touch of sweetness, all crowned with a crunchy, caramelized pecan topping that’s simply irresistible. It’s a recipe that feels right at home on any holiday table, but trust me, it’s so comforting and easy you’ll want to make it all year long!

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecan Topping uses kitchen staples you likely already have, but each one plays an essential part in the magic of the final dish. From velvety sweet potatoes to the nutty crunch of pecans, every ingredient is carefully chosen to deliver layers of flavor and texture.

• Mashed Sweet Potatoes: The star of the show—be sure to cook until perfectly tender for the smoothest base.
• Unsalted Butter (for casserole): Melted butter creates richness and helps bring everything together.
• Brown Sugar (for casserole): Adds lovely warmth and depth of flavor to complement the natural sweetness of the potatoes.
• Large Eggs: Eggs bind the mixture and give it a light, custardy texture—don’t skip them!
• Milk: Just the right amount of milk makes the casserole creamy without being heavy.
• Vanilla Extract: A splash of vanilla enhances that cozy, homey aroma and taste.
• Salt: Just a bit to balance the flavors and let the sweet tones shine.
• Brown Sugar (for topping): The base for your irresistible, crunchy pecan topping.
• All-Purpose Flour: Helps create the crumbly streusel texture for the topping.
• Unsalted Butter (for topping): Softened butter brings everything together in the topping—don’t use melted here.
• Chopped Pecans: The grand finale; toasted pecans add a wonderful crunch and deep nutty flavor.

How to Make Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecan Topping

Step 1: Prepare the Sweet Potatoes

Start by cooking and peeling your sweet potatoes. You’ll need about three large ones to make four cups of mashed deliciousness. Boil or bake them until they’re super tender, then mash until smooth. If you love your casserole extra silky, a hand mixer does wonders!

Step 2: Mix the Casserole Base

In a large mixing bowl, blend those mashed sweet potatoes with melted butter, brown sugar, eggs, milk, vanilla extract, and salt. Stir until it’s fabulously smooth and everything is thoroughly incorporated—this is where that creamy, fluffy texture begins.

Step 3: Assemble the Casserole

Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and spread the sweet potato mixture in an even layer. Use a spatula to smooth the top so your pecan topping will rest perfectly on it later. At this point, your kitchen will start to smell like a holiday memory!

Step 4: Make the Pecan Topping

In a separate bowl, combine brown sugar, flour, and softened butter. Work them together with a fork or your fingertips until the mixture is beautifully crumbly. Add in the chopped pecans and stir gently so you get little crunchy nuggets in every bite.

Step 5: Add the Topping and Bake

Sprinkle the pecan topping evenly over the sweet potato layer. Bake in a preheated 350°F oven for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the top is golden and everything is warmed through. Let your Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecan Topping cool for just a few minutes—this helps everything set and makes cutting into it even more satisfying.

How to Serve Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecan Topping

Garnishes

Add a little flourish by topping your casserole with extra toasted pecans or a sprinkle of orange zest for a citrusy twist. A light dusting of cinnamon or a drizzle of maple syrup can also make each batch feel extra special and inviting.

Side Dishes

This dish enhances any holiday spread, pairing beautifully with roasted turkey, glazed ham, or even grilled chicken for a more casual meal. Balancing it with something savory (think green beans or a crisp salad) really makes the flavors pop.

Creative Ways to Present

Try scooping the Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecan Topping into individual ramekins for elegant personal servings, or go rustic by baking it in a cast-iron skillet for a show-stopping centerpiece. Don’t be afraid to get playful—people love when classics get a fresh touch!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover casserole keeps beautifully in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. The topping stays crunchy if you let it cool completely before covering, and the flavors somehow get even richer and more comforting the next day.

Freezing

To freeze, assemble the entire casserole (including topping), then cover tightly with foil and freeze for up to two months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge, then bake as directed. It’s just as comforting as fresh—perfect for busy holidays or meal planning ahead!

Reheating

Warm leftovers gently in a 350°F oven until heated through—this brings back the crunchy pecan topping and soft, creamy base. Microwaving works in a pinch, but for best results and that signature texture, stick with the oven if you can.

FAQs

Can I make Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecan Topping ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble everything (including adding the topping) the day before, cover tightly, and refrigerate. Bake just before serving so the topping stays crisp and delicious.

What’s the best way to mash sweet potatoes—by hand or with a mixer?

Either works, but if you enjoy a super smooth, almost whipped texture, a hand mixer or stand mixer is worth the effort. For a slightly rustic feel, a potato masher does the trick.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes, simply substitute your favorite plant-based butter and milk alternatives. It’s just as creamy and you won’t lose any of that nostalgic flavor!

How can I make this Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecan Topping nut-free?

If someone has a nut allergy, you can swap the pecans for sunflower seeds (for crunch) or simply omit the topping and make a classic sweet potato casserole with a little cinnamon sugar sprinkled on top instead.

Is the casserole very sweet? Can I reduce the sugar?

This recipe strikes a balance between sweet and savory, but you can easily reduce the brown sugar in both the base and topping to suit your preference without changing the texture too much.

Final Thoughts

There’s something simply magical about a Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecan Topping—rich, creamy, just the right amount of sweet, and always a crowd-pleaser. If you haven’t tried making it yet, I encourage you to bring this classic to your next gathering. One bite, and it’ll be a part of your family’s traditions for years to come!

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