If you’re searching for a comforting, crowd-pleasing dish that radiates warmth and festive flavor, look no further than this Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecan Topping Recipe. It pairs creamy, velvety mashed sweet potatoes with a crunchy, buttery pecan topping for a delightful balance of textures and tastes. This classic American favorite works perfectly for holiday gatherings or any time you want a dish that feels like a hug on a plate.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Nothing complicated here; just a handful of simple, wholesome ingredients that come together to create that irresistible sweet and nutty flavor combo. Each component plays a key role, from the natural sweetness of the potatoes to the rich crunch of pecans.
- 4 cups mashed sweet potatoes: Use about 4 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cooked for creamy smoothness and natural sweetness.
- ½ cup granulated sugar: Adds the perfect touch of sweetness without overpowering.
- 2 large eggs: Bind everything together for a custard-like texture.
- ½ cup milk: Lightens the mixture and ensures it’s silky and smooth.
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted: Brings richness and depth of flavor.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: A subtle aromatic touch that enhances the sweet potatoes.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Balances and brightens all the flavors.
- ½ cup all-purpose flour: Essential for a tender, crumbly topping texture.
- ½ cup packed brown sugar: Adds a deep molasses sweetness to the topping.
- ¼ cup cold unsalted butter, cubed: Creates that irresistible crumbly texture when mixed into the topping.
- ½ cup chopped pecans: The star crunch of the topping, adding nuttiness and texture.
How to Make Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecan Topping Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Sweet Potato Base
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed sweet potatoes with granulated sugar, eggs, milk, melted butter, vanilla extract, and salt. Stir everything together until the mixture is smooth and evenly blended. This creamy base will be the foundation for your casserole’s luscious texture and delicate sweetness.
Step 2: Transfer to Baking Dish
Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking, then pour in your creamy sweet potato mixture. Use a spatula to spread it out evenly for an even bake and an appealing presentation. This ensures every bite delivers that perfect balance of soft sweetness underneath the crunchy topping.
Step 3: Make the Pecan Topping
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and brown sugar. Add the cold, cubed butter, then work it in using a pastry cutter or fork until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in the chopped pecans last, spreading the topping mixture evenly across the sweet potato layer. This step is where you get that signature crunchy, buttery pecan topping that makes this casserole feel extra special.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Pop the dish into your preheated oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes. Watch as the topping turns a glorious golden brown and the casserole sets firmly but remains moist underneath. Let it cool just a bit before serving to allow the flavors to meld and the texture to settle beautifully.
How to Serve Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecan Topping Recipe
Garnishes
While this casserole shines on its own, a light dusting of cinnamon or a few extra chopped pecans sprinkled on top just before serving can elevate it even more. Some folks love adding a small handful of mini marshmallows for a melty, sweet surprise in the last few minutes of baking—totally optional but delightfully indulgent.
Side Dishes
This Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecan Topping Recipe pairs wonderfully with savory mains like roasted turkey or baked ham, perfect for holiday feasts. It harmonizes beautifully with green beans, cranberry sauce, or a simple salad to balance those rich, sweet flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
For a more elegant presentation, serve individual portions in ramekins topped with a whole pecan or a small sprig of fresh rosemary. You can also layer this casserole as a side in a buffet-style spread, letting guests scoop their own generous helpings.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled completely, store any leftovers covered tightly in the refrigerator. This casserole will keep well for up to 3 days without losing its flavor or texture, making it a great option for next-day enjoyment.
Freezing
If you want to prep ahead, you can freeze the unbaked casserole after assembling it. Wrap tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to serve, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as instructed.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently in the oven at 325°F until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes. This method helps maintain the crisp topping and creamy interior, unlike microwaving, which can make the texture mushy.
FAQs
Can I use canned sweet potatoes for this recipe?
Absolutely! Canned sweet potatoes can work in a pinch, but fresh sweet potatoes tend to have better texture and flavor for this casserole.
Is it okay to substitute other nuts for pecans?
Yes, but pecans provide a classic buttery crunch that complements the sweet potato base perfectly. Walnuts or almonds can work too but will alter the flavor slightly.
Can I make this casserole vegan?
To make it vegan, swap out butter for a plant-based alternative, use a non-dairy milk, and substitute eggs with a flax egg or another egg replacer. The texture may vary but it’s still delicious!
How sweet is this casserole? Can I reduce the sugar?
This recipe has a moderate sweetness that balances well with the pecan topping. You can reduce the granulated and brown sugar amounts a bit if you prefer a less sweet dish, but keep some sugar to maintain flavor and texture.
What if I want to add marshmallows on top?
Add mini marshmallows during the last 10 minutes of baking and broil briefly for a golden, gooey finish. This is a popular variation to add extra sweetness and a fun topping texture.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly comforting and magical about the Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecan Topping Recipe. It’s that perfect blend of creamy and crunchy, sweet and buttery, that feels like the ultimate cozy side dish. Whether you’re making it for a holiday feast or just because you’re craving something special, this casserole never fails to impress. Give it a try and watch it become a beloved staple in your recipe collection!
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Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecan Topping Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This classic Sweet Potato Casserole is a perfect holiday side dish that combines creamy mashed sweet potatoes with a crunchy pecan topping. Baked to golden perfection, it offers a delightful balance of sweet and buttery flavors, making it a beloved recipe for Thanksgiving and family gatherings.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 4 cups mashed sweet potatoes (about 4 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cooked)
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup milk
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon salt
Topping
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- ½ cup brown sugar, packed
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- ½ cup chopped pecans
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it’s ready for baking the casserole.
- Prepare Sweet Potato Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed sweet potatoes, granulated sugar, eggs, milk, melted butter, vanilla extract, and salt. Mix thoroughly until the mixture is smooth and homogenous.
- Transfer to Baking Dish: Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish, then pour the sweet potato mixture into it. Spread it evenly to create a uniform layer.
- Make the Topping: In a separate bowl, combine the flour, brown sugar, and cold cubed butter. Use a pastry cutter or fork to blend these ingredients until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Add Pecans: Stir the chopped pecans into the crumbly topping mixture, then sprinkle this evenly over the sweet potato layer in the baking dish.
- Bake the Casserole: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes. Bake until the topping turns golden brown and the casserole is set.
- Cool and Serve: Remove from oven and let the casserole cool slightly before serving to allow it to firm up for easier serving.
Notes
- This casserole can be prepared a day in advance and baked just before serving to save time on the day of your event.
- For an extra sweet and festive touch, add mini marshmallows on top during the last 10 minutes of baking.
