Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe

There's nothing quite like the comforting, nostalgic aroma of Sweet Potato Casserole baking in the oven. It's that perfect balance of sweet and savory, with the creamy, buttery filling and the crisp, golden topping that makes every holiday meal extra special.

I first discovered the magic of this dish at a family Thanksgiving when my grandmother made it. The sweet potatoes were perfectly smooth, with a hint of cinnamon, and the pecan topping added a delightful crunch. Over the years, this casserole has become a staple at our gatherings, and I'm so excited to share it with you. Let's dive into the details and make this crowd-pleasing classic.

Why You'll Love This Sweet Potato Casserole

Get ready to fall in love with your new holiday favorite. This Sweet Potato Casserole is not only indulgently delicious but also incredibly easy to prepare.

First off, the creamy sweet potato base comes together in just a few simple steps. With the help of a trusty potato masher or even a hand mixer, you’ll have the perfect, velvety consistency in no time. Plus, the sweet potatoes are packed with natural flavor, which means you don’t have to overdo it on the sugar to make this dish shine.

The topping is a real showstopper. Crunchy pecans mixed with brown sugar and butter create a caramelized, nutty crust that perfectly contrasts the soft sweet potatoes beneath. And if you’re a fan of marshmallows, you can even sprinkle some on top for a gooey, golden finish.

Not only is this casserole a breeze to make, but it’s also perfect for prepping ahead. You can prepare the entire dish a day before, making holiday cooking much less stressful. Trust me, this recipe will become a tradition your family will look forward to year after year.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of this Sweet Potato Casserole lies in its simple yet well-chosen ingredients. Each one plays a key role in creating the ultimate comfort food experience.

Sweet Potatoes: These are the star of the dish. Opt for fresh, large sweet potatoes and peel them before boiling. Their natural sweetness is the foundation of this casserole, and they provide that beautiful, vibrant orange color we all love.

Brown Sugar: Used in both the filling and the topping, brown sugar adds a warm, caramel-like sweetness that pairs beautifully with the earthy flavors of the sweet potatoes. If you prefer a less sweet casserole, you can reduce the amount slightly without sacrificing taste.

Butter: A generous amount of butter makes this dish rich and flavorful. It’s essential for both the filling and the topping, creating a luscious texture that melts in your mouth. Use unsalted butter to control the overall saltiness of the dish.

Pecans: The pecan topping is a fan favorite. Chopped pecans add a delightful crunch and nutty flavor that balances the soft, smooth sweet potatoes. You can also use walnuts if you prefer, but pecans are the classic choice.

Cinnamon and Nutmeg: These warm spices enhance the natural flavors of the sweet potatoes. A little goes a long way, adding just the right amount of holiday magic. Feel free to adjust the amount based on your taste preferences.

Marshmallows (optional): If you’re a fan of the classic sweet-and-salty combination, a layer of marshmallows on top is a must. They toast up beautifully, creating a gooey, irresistible topping that kids and adults alike will adore.

No special equipment is needed for this recipe – just a large pot, a baking dish, and a potato masher or mixer to make everything smooth and creamy.

How To Make This Sweet Potato Casserole

Making this Sweet Potato Casserole is easier than you might think. Here’s how to do it, step by step.

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Start by peeling and chopping your sweet potatoes into large chunks. Place them in a large pot, cover with water, and bring to a boil. Cook until fork-tender, about 15-20 minutes. Drain well.

Step 2: Transfer the cooked sweet potatoes to a large mixing bowl. Add butter, brown sugar, milk, cinnamon, nutmeg, and a pinch of salt. Use a potato masher or a hand mixer to blend until smooth. The consistency should be thick and creamy, but not runny.

Step 3: Spread the sweet potato mixture evenly into a greased 9x13-inch baking dish. Smooth out the top with a spatula, getting it ready for the amazing topping that comes next.

Step 4: In a separate bowl, mix chopped pecans, brown sugar, melted butter, and a pinch of salt. Sprinkle this crunchy, buttery mixture evenly over the sweet potatoes. If you’re adding marshmallows, sprinkle them on top as well, but wait to add them until the last 10-15 minutes of baking to prevent over-browning.

Step 5: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the topping is golden and bubbly. If using marshmallows, watch them closely to avoid burning. Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving, and get ready for everyone to come back for seconds!

This casserole will stay warm and delicious for up to 30 minutes, perfect for serving alongside your holiday feast.

Storage Options

Leftovers of this Sweet Potato Casserole are a real treat and easy to store for later enjoyment. Here’s how to keep it fresh.

Refrigerator: Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. You can also keep it in the original baking dish, covered tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil.

Freezer: This casserole freezes beautifully! Simply wrap the entire dish with plastic wrap and then foil, or transfer to a freezer-safe container. It will last for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking again at 350°F until warmed through.

When reheating, add a fresh layer of marshmallows or a sprinkle of pecans to bring back the crispy, caramelized topping.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about this Sweet Potato Casserole is its versatility. Here are some ideas to make it your own:

Healthier Option: For a lighter version, you can cut back on the sugar or use maple syrup as a natural sweetener. Swap out heavy cream for almond milk or coconut milk to reduce calories and make it dairy-free.

Nut-Free: If you have guests with nut allergies, simply omit the pecans and use a crunchy oat topping instead. Mix rolled oats with a bit of brown sugar, melted butter, and cinnamon for a delicious alternative.

Vegan Version: Make this dish vegan-friendly by using plant-based butter and milk. The flavor will be just as rich, and your vegan guests will be thrilled to have a dish they can enjoy.

Spiced Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika to the filling for a unique twist. The subtle heat pairs surprisingly well with the sweetness of the potatoes.

Bourbon Addition: For an adult version, stir in a tablespoon of bourbon to the filling. The alcohol will cook off, leaving behind a rich, caramel-like flavor that elevates the dish.

No matter how you choose to customize it, don’t be afraid to get creative and make this recipe your own holiday tradition!

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