Save This comforting dish features tender sweet potatoes mashed smooth with butter, milk, and warm spices, then topped with a crunchy blend of caramelized pecans, brown sugar, and flour. Baked until golden, it balances creamy and crisp textures and brings cozy warmth to any meal. Easy to prepare, it pairs beautifully with roasted meats or vegetarian spreads, and can be made ahead for convenience.
I remember the first time I made this sweet potato casserole with pecan topping during a chilly holiday season. The warmth from the oven and the sweet aroma instantly gave my kitchen that cozy, festive vibe I needed to feel at home.
One Thanksgiving, unexpected guests showed up and this casserole saved the day. I whipped it up in no time and everyone kept asking for the recipe afterward—it was that memorable.
Ingredients
- Sweet Potatoes: I reach for large, firm sweet potatoes to ensure smoothness and natural sweetness after mashing
- Unsalted Butter: Using unsalted butter lets me control the saltiness perfectly in both the base and topping
- Whole Milk: It adds a creamy texture but feel free to substitute half-and-half or plant-based milk for a lighter version
- Brown Sugar: Using packed brown sugar brings that deep caramel flavor that complements the pecans beautifully
- Eggs: Essential for binding the sweet potato base, I always use fresh large eggs
- Vanilla Extract: Just a teaspoon lifts all the flavors making the casserole irresistible
- Ground Cinnamon: A little warmth goes a long way in enhancing the sweetness
- Pecan Halves or Chopped Pecans: I prefer halves for that satisfying crunch on top but chopped works great too
- All-purpose Flour: Helps hold the pecan topping together but gluten-free blends can be swapped in
- Salt: A pinch in both layers balances the sweet elements perfectly
Instructions
- Get Everything Ready:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease your 9x13-inch baking dish to avoid sticking during baking.
- Cook Sweet Potatoes:
- Place sweet potato chunks in a large pot of salted water, bring to a boil and cook until fork-tender, about 15 minutes. Drain them well to avoid watery casserole.
- Mash and Mix:
- Mash the sweet potatoes until smooth in a large bowl, then add melted butter, milk, brown sugar, eggs, vanilla, salt, and cinnamon. Mix gently until creamy and well incorporated.
- Layer the Base:
- Spread the creamy sweet potato mixture evenly into the prepared dish, creating a smooth surface for the pecan topping.
- Prepare the Topping:
- In another bowl, combine pecans, brown sugar, flour, melted butter, and a pinch of salt. Stir until the mixture is crumbly and evenly coated.
- Top It Off:
- Sprinkle the pecan topping evenly over the sweet potato layer, making sure to cover it thoroughly for that perfect crunchy finish.
- Bake and Wait:
- Bake for 35 to 40 minutes until the topping turns golden and the casserole is set. Let it cool for 10 minutes so flavors settle before serving.
Save This dish stopped being just a side when my family started requesting it at every celebration; it became our little tradition of comfort and joy.
Keeping It Fresh
If you’re not serving immediately, cover the casserole with foil and refrigerate. Reheat in the oven at 325°F until warm to keep the topping crisp.
When You're Missing Something
Out of pecans? Walnuts or almonds can make a nice substitute though the flavor will shift slightly. Brown sugar can be swapped for maple syrup for a different sweetness profile.
Serving Ideas That Clicked
This casserole pairs beautifully with roasted turkey or glazed ham, but it’s equally delicious on its own for a cozy vegetarian dinner.
- Try adding a sprinkle of extra cinnamon on top just before baking for added aroma
- Oh wait one more thing: a dash of nutmeg in the sweet potato mix gives a lovely warmth
- Final helpful note: Let the casserole rest before serving to avoid it being too hot and crumbly
Save Thanks for cooking along—hope this becomes a cozy staple in your kitchen just like it did in mine.
Common Questions
- → What type of sweet potatoes work best?
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Large, firm sweet potatoes are ideal for mashing as they yield a creamy texture and sweet flavor after cooking.
- → Can I make the topping gluten-free?
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Yes, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend to keep the topping crumbly and crisp.
- → Is there a way to lighten the dish?
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Using half-and-half or plant-based milk and reducing the brown sugar can make the dish lighter without compromising flavor.
- → How can I add extra warmth to the flavors?
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A pinch of nutmeg or an extra sprinkle of cinnamon added to the sweet potato mixture enhances the cozy, spiced notes.
- → Can this dish be prepared in advance?
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Absolutely, it can be assembled a day ahead and baked just before serving to save time during meals.
