Easy Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecan Topping

Sweet Potato Casserole is a comforting, festive side dish that combines creamy sweet potatoes with a crunchy, buttery topping. Perfect for any special dinner, this recipe balances sweet and savory flavors for a dish everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Smooth, creamy sweet potato base with a crunchy topping.
• Easy to make ahead and bake before your meal.
• Sweet and slightly spiced for perfect flavor balance.
• A classic holiday side that pleases adults and kids alike.
• Uses simple ingredients that are pantry staples.

Ingredients

• 4 cups mashed sweet potatoes (about 4 large sweet potatoes), peeled and boiled
• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
• ½ cup brown sugar
• ¼ cup milk
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ½ teaspoon salt

Topping:

• ½ cup all-purpose flour
• ½ cup brown sugar
• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
• ½ cup chopped pecans

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. In a large bowl, mix mashed sweet potatoes, melted butter, brown sugar, milk, eggs, vanilla, cinnamon, and salt until smooth and creamy.
3. Pour sweet potato mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly.
4. In a small bowl, combine flour, brown sugar, melted butter, and chopped pecans to make the topping.
5. Sprinkle the topping evenly over the sweet potato mixture.
6. Bake uncovered for 30–35 minutes until the topping is golden brown and crisp.
7. Remove from oven and let cool for 5–10 minutes before serving.

Tips & Variations

• Make ahead: Prepare the casserole the night before, cover, and refrigerate. Bake just before serving.
• Vegan version: Use coconut oil or vegan butter and a non-dairy milk alternative.
• Spice variations: Add nutmeg or ginger for extra warmth.
• Mini casseroles: Use ramekins for individual servings.
• Extra crunchy topping: Add oats or coconut flakes to the pecan topping.

Storage & Reheating

• Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Reheat in the oven at 325°F until warmed through.
• Do not freeze the topping, as it may become soggy when thawed.

Serving & Pairing Ideas

Sweet Potato Casserole pairs wonderfully with:

• Roast turkey or chicken
• Buttery herb stuffing
• Cranberry sauce
• Green bean casserole
• Dinner rolls

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare it the night before, refrigerate, and bake before serving.

Can I use canned sweet potatoes?

Yes, but fresh boiled and mashed sweet potatoes give the best texture and flavor.

What makes the topping crispy?

A combination of butter, brown sugar, flour, and pecans ensures a crunchy, golden topping.

Can I add marshmallows?

Yes, adding mini marshmallows on top during the last 10 minutes of baking creates a sweet, gooey layer.

Ready to Make It?

This Sweet Potato Casserole is a simple, flavorful side dish that combines creamy mashed sweet potatoes with a buttery, crunchy topping. It’s perfect for holidays or cozy family dinners, and can be made ahead of time for stress-free serving. Your guests will love the balance of sweet, savory, and slightly spiced flavors in every bite.

You Might Also Like

• Buttery Herb Stuffing – Soft, golden bread cubes baked with fragrant herbs.
• Classic Mashed Potatoes – Fluffy, creamy potatoes perfect with roast meats.
• Cranberry Brie Bites – A sweet and savory appetizer for holiday tables.
• Pumpkin Roll – Moist pumpkin cake rolled with rich cream cheese filling.

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