Sweet potato casserole is more than just a side dish—it’s a heartwarming, comforting classic that brings people together around the table, especially during fall and holiday gatherings.
With its rich, creamy mashed sweet potatoes, a touch of sweetness, and a crunchy pecan topping, this dish delivers both flavor and nostalgia. This recipe serves 12 generous portions, making it ideal for family dinners, potlucks, and festive feasts.
1. Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe
Ingredients
For the Sweet Potato Base:
- 4 lbs sweet potatoes (about 4–5 medium to large)
- 1/2 cup (110g) packed light-brown sugar
- 1/2 cup (113g) unsalted butter, melted
- 1/2 cup milk (whole or 2% preferred)
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For the Topping:
- 1/2 cup (70g) all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup (110g) packed light brown sugar
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1 cup chopped or broken pecans
- 1/4 cup (57g) unsalted butter, melted
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare and Cook the Sweet Potatoes
Start by peeling and cutting your sweet potatoes into large chunks. Place them in a large pot and cover with cold water. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat and cook for 15–20 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes are fork-tender. Drain well and transfer to a large mixing bowl.
Step 2: Mash and Mix the Sweet Potato Base
While the sweet potatoes are still hot, mash them thoroughly using a potato masher or hand mixer. Add the melted butter, brown sugar, milk, eggs, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Continue mixing until smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
Step 3: Assemble the Casserole
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Pour the sweet potato mixture into the dish and smooth the top with a spatula.
Step 4: Prepare the Topping
In a medium bowl, stir together the flour, brown sugar, and cinnamon. Add the chopped pecans and mix well. Drizzle in the melted butter and stir until the mixture becomes crumbly and evenly coated.
Step 5: Add the Topping and Bake
Sprinkle the pecan topping evenly over the sweet potato mixture in the baking dish. Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 35–40 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the filling is set.
Step 6: Serve
Allow the casserole to cool for about 10 minutes before serving. This rest time helps the texture set and makes it easier to slice and serve.
2. Tips for Perfect Sweet Potato Casserole
Use freshly cooked sweet potatoes instead of canned ones for a richer, more natural flavor and better texture.
Don’t skip the eggs—they help bind the mixture and give the casserole structure without making it too dense.
Balance the sweetness by tasting your mashed sweet potato mixture before baking; adjust the sugar to your preference.
Toast the pecans before using for an added layer of nutty depth and crunch in the topping.
Let it rest before serving so the casserole firms up and holds its shape better when sliced.
3. Variations & Substitutes
Marshmallow topping option: Replace the pecan topping with a layer of mini marshmallows. Add them during the last 10 minutes of baking until golden and gooey.
Make it dairy-free: Use plant-based milk (like oat or almond) and vegan butter to make this casserole suitable for dairy-sensitive guests.
Add spices to the base: Mix in a dash of cinnamon, nutmeg, or allspice into the mashed sweet potatoes for extra warmth and spice.
Gluten-free version: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend in the topping to make it gluten-free friendly.
Use maple syrup: Swap out some or all of the brown sugar in the base for pure maple syrup to add a deep, earthy sweetness.
4. How to Store & Reheat Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, place individual servings in the microwave and heat in 30-second intervals until warmed through.
Alternatively, reheat the entire dish in the oven at 325°F (163°C) for about 15–20 minutes or until hot. If the topping starts to brown too quickly during reheating, cover loosely with foil.
For longer storage, the casserole can be frozen. Wrap tightly with plastic wrap and foil and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating in the oven.
Sweet potato casserole is more than just a side dish—it’s a beloved tradition. With its creamy, lightly sweetened base and a crunchy, buttery topping, this dish strikes the perfect balance between savory and sweet. Ideal for gatherings or cozy nights in, it’s a recipe that will win over kids and adults alike. With a bit of preparation and a handful of pantry staples, you can bring this timeless favorite to life in your own kitchen.
