Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe

There's something magical about the comforting aroma of sweet potatoes and warm spices baking in the oven. This classic Sweet Potato Casserole is a must-have on holiday tables, bringing together creamy sweet potatoes, a hint of cinnamon, and a rich, buttery topping that’s impossible to resist.

I still remember the first time I made this dish for Thanksgiving; it became an instant hit, with family members begging for the recipe before dessert was even served. It's the perfect combination of sweet, savory, and nostalgic – a true crowd-pleaser.

Why You'll Love This Sweet Potato Casserole

Get ready to fall in love with this sweet and satisfying dish. It’s the ultimate side for any special gathering or weeknight treat when you're craving something indulgent.

First off, it’s incredibly easy to make, even if you’re juggling multiple dishes during the holidays. With simple steps and a few basic ingredients, this recipe comes together in no time.

The texture is pure perfection. Creamy mashed sweet potatoes are topped with a crisp, golden-brown layer of pecans and brown sugar, creating the ideal contrast with every bite.

It’s also a highly customizable recipe. Whether you love a marshmallow topping, extra spices, or a nut-free version, this casserole adapts beautifully to your tastes.

Lastly, it’s a true make-ahead hero. You can prepare it the day before and pop it in the oven when you’re ready to serve, saving you precious time on busy days.

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of this Sweet Potato Casserole lies in its simple, high-quality ingredients. Each one contributes to the dish’s delicious balance of flavors.

• Sweet Potatoes: These are the star of the show. Look for firm, medium-sized sweet potatoes with smooth skin for the best results. Roasting them brings out their natural sweetness, but boiling works too if you're in a pinch.
• Butter: Unsalted butter adds richness to both the filling and the topping. Make sure it’s at room temperature for easier mixing.
• Brown Sugar: This ingredient sweetens the casserole and gives the topping its caramel-like flavor. You can use light or dark brown sugar depending on how deep a molasses flavor you prefer.
• Pecans: These crunchy nuts are essential for the topping, offering texture and a nutty flavor. For a nut-free version, consider using crushed graham crackers or oats instead.
• Eggs: Beaten eggs help bind the sweet potato mixture and give it structure. Don’t skip this step, or your casserole may end up too soft.
• Cinnamon and Nutmeg: These warm spices enhance the natural sweetness of the potatoes. Adjust the amounts based on your personal preference.

No special equipment is needed here, just a sturdy mixing bowl, a hand masher or electric mixer, and a trusty casserole dish.

How To Make This Sweet Potato Casserole

Making this Sweet Potato Casserole is as simple as 1-2-3. Here's how to bring it all together:

1. Prepare the Sweet Potatoes
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Peel and cube your sweet potatoes for faster cooking. Boil them in salted water until tender, about 20 minutes. Drain thoroughly and transfer to a large bowl. Mash the potatoes until smooth, using a hand masher or electric mixer.

2. Mix the Filling
Add butter, brown sugar, eggs, milk, and a pinch of cinnamon and nutmeg to the mashed sweet potatoes. Stir everything until well combined and creamy. Pour this mixture into a greased casserole dish, spreading it out evenly.

3. Prepare the Topping
In a separate bowl, mix chopped pecans, brown sugar, a touch of flour, and melted butter. Stir until crumbly. Sprinkle this mixture over the sweet potato layer, covering it generously.

4. Bake to Perfection
Bake the casserole for 25-30 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and slightly crisp. Let it cool for 5 minutes before serving – if you can wait that long!

This dish is ready in under an hour, leaving you plenty of time to focus on other holiday favorites.

Storage Options

One of the best things about this casserole is how well it stores.

• Refrigeration: Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap or transfer leftovers to an airtight container. It will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: Sweet Potato Casserole can be frozen before or after baking. Wrap the dish tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to use, thaw overnight in the refrigerator.
• Reheating: Warm the casserole in a 350°F oven for 15-20 minutes. If it’s already baked, add a fresh sprinkle of pecans or marshmallows for extra texture.

Variations and Substitutions

This recipe is endlessly versatile, so don’t hesitate to put your own spin on it!

• Marshmallow Topping: For a classic twist, swap the pecan topping for mini marshmallows. Sprinkle them on during the last 10 minutes of baking so they melt and toast to perfection.
• Vegan Version: Replace the butter with vegan butter, the milk with almond or oat milk, and skip the eggs. The casserole will still be creamy and delicious!
• Nut-Free: Use crushed graham crackers or rolled oats mixed with brown sugar and butter as a nut-free topping alternative.
• Spiced Up: Add a teaspoon of vanilla extract or a pinch of ginger to the sweet potato mixture for extra depth of flavor.
• Savory Twist: Reduce the sugar in the filling and topping, and sprinkle with shredded cheese instead of pecans for a unique savory take.

Experiment and make it your own – there’s no wrong way to enjoy this cozy dish!

With its rich flavors, velvety texture, and irresistible topping, this Sweet Potato Casserole will quickly become a staple in your recipe collection. Whether you’re celebrating the holidays or simply treating yourself to a taste of nostalgia, this dish never fails to delight.

Print