Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe

There's something magical about Sweet Potato Casserole. The combination of velvety mashed sweet potatoes, a buttery crumbly topping, and just the right amount of sweetness makes it an irresistible dish for the holidays—or any day, really.

this Recipe

This recipe holds a special place in my heart as it was a staple at every family Thanksgiving growing up. Over the years, I’ve tweaked it to perfection, balancing nostalgic flavors with a simplicity that fits busy schedules. Let’s dive into this crowd-pleasing classic!

Why You'll Love This Sweet Potato Casserole

Get ready to savor a recipe that will quickly become a household favorite. Sweet Potato Casserole isn’t just delicious—it’s an effortless way to impress at any gathering.

First, it’s unbelievably easy to make. With simple steps and minimal prep, you’ll have a dish that looks and tastes like it came straight out of a professional kitchen.

This casserole is also incredibly versatile. Whether you’re feeding a large holiday crowd or preparing a comforting weeknight side, it adapts beautifully to your needs.

And let’s not forget the combination of textures—creamy sweet potatoes paired with a crunchy pecan topping make every bite pure perfection.

What’s even better is that you can prepare it ahead of time. This means less stress on the big day and more time enjoying the meal with loved ones.

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of this Sweet Potato Casserole lies in its simplicity and the quality of its ingredients. Let’s break down what you’ll need.

Sweet potatoes are the star of the show. Choose medium-sized potatoes with smooth skin for the creamiest texture. Roasting them brings out their natural sweetness, making your casserole even more flavorful.

Butter is essential for creating that luscious richness. I recommend unsalted butter so you can control the salt level in the dish.

Brown sugar adds the perfect amount of sweetness without overpowering the natural flavor of the sweet potatoes. You can use light or dark brown sugar depending on your preference for a mild or robust molasses flavor.

Pecans take the topping to the next level. Their nutty crunch contrasts beautifully with the smooth filling. If pecans aren’t your thing, walnuts work well too.

If you have a hand mixer or potato masher on hand, these will make the mashing process quick and easy, ensuring a silky-smooth base.

How To Make This Sweet Potato Casserole

Making Sweet Potato Casserole is simpler than you might think. Follow these steps to create a dish that will steal the show at your next gathering.

Start by roasting the sweet potatoes. Preheat your oven to 400°F and pierce the potatoes with a fork. Place them on a baking sheet and roast for about 45-50 minutes, or until they’re fork-tender. Once cooled, peel off the skin—it’ll slip right off!

While the sweet potatoes roast, prepare the topping. In a bowl, mix together chopped pecans, brown sugar, flour, and melted butter until crumbly. Set this aside for later.

Mash the sweet potatoes in a large bowl until smooth. Add butter, brown sugar, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. For an ultra-creamy texture, use a hand mixer, but a potato masher works just as well.

Spread the mashed sweet potatoes evenly in a greased baking dish. Sprinkle the pecan topping generously over the surface, ensuring every bite will have that delicious crunch.

Bake at 350°F for 25-30 minutes, until the topping is golden brown and the casserole is bubbling at the edges. Let it cool slightly before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.

Storage Options

Sweet Potato Casserole stores beautifully, making it a fantastic make-ahead dish.

To refrigerate, cover the dish tightly with foil or plastic wrap and store for up to three days. Reheat in a 350°F oven until warmed through.

For longer storage, freeze the casserole before baking. Wrap it in multiple layers of plastic wrap and foil to prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to serve, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed.

If you have leftovers, portion them into airtight containers. They’ll stay fresh in the fridge for 3-4 days or in the freezer for up to a month.

Variations and Substitutions

This recipe is wonderfully adaptable, letting you make it your own with a few simple swaps.

For a healthier twist, substitute half of the butter with Greek yogurt or coconut oil. It adds creaminess without sacrificing flavor.

If you prefer less sweetness, reduce the brown sugar or replace it with maple syrup for a subtler, more natural taste.

For a nut-free version, swap the pecan topping with a streusel made from rolled oats, flour, and butter.

Love marshmallows? Add a layer of mini marshmallows on top of the pecan topping during the last 5 minutes of baking for a gooey, sweet finish.

Experiment with spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, or a pinch of cloves to give the casserole a warm, spiced flavor profile.

Whether you’re serving it for a special occasion or enjoying it as a cozy side, Sweet Potato Casserole is a recipe that delivers comfort and joy in every bite. Give it a try and see why it’s a classic worth celebrating!

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