Sweet Potato Casserole With Butter Pecan Crumble Topping Recipe

There's nothing quite as comforting as the rich, sweet aroma of Sweet Potato Casserole filling your kitchen. This classic holiday dish, featuring velvety mashed sweet potatoes and a buttery, crunchy pecan topping, is a must-have on any festive table. With a perfect balance of sweetness and warmth, it’s sure to win over even the pickiest eaters.

I remember the first time I made this recipe for Thanksgiving. My family couldn't get enough of the buttery pecan crumble, and it has since become a staple for every holiday season. Let's dive into why this dish is a showstopper for any gathering.

Why You'll Love This Sweet Potato Casserole

Get ready to discover your new favorite holiday dish. This Sweet Potato Casserole goes beyond the ordinary, offering a mouthwatering mix of flavors and textures that will have everyone asking for seconds.

First and foremost, the buttery pecan crumble topping takes this casserole to the next level. The crunch of toasted pecans combined with the rich, caramel-like flavor of brown sugar is simply irresistible. It’s a match made in heaven when paired with the smooth, sweet potato base.

Another reason to love this recipe? It’s surprisingly easy to make. Even if you’re juggling multiple holiday dishes, this one comes together quickly and can be prepped ahead of time. Less stress, more enjoyment – isn't that what the holidays are all about?

Plus, it’s incredibly versatile. You can easily customize the level of sweetness or add extra spices for a warm, cozy kick. And if you’re feeding a crowd, this recipe doubles beautifully, making it a host’s best friend.

Finally, it’s a crowd-pleaser. Even people who claim not to be fans of sweet potatoes often find themselves going back for more. It's the perfect dish to bring everyone together.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of this Sweet Potato Casserole lies in its simple yet thoughtfully chosen ingredients. Each one contributes to the comforting and delicious flavors of the dish.

• Sweet Potatoes: These form the heart of the casserole. You’ll want to choose large, firm sweet potatoes for a naturally sweet and smooth base. Baking them rather than boiling preserves their natural flavors and makes them easier to mash.
• Brown Sugar: Used both in the sweet potato mixture and the pecan topping, brown sugar adds a deep, molasses-like sweetness that elevates the dish. Feel free to adjust the amount based on your preference.
• Butter: You can’t have a proper pecan crumble without plenty of butter! It gives the topping that melt-in-your-mouth richness and helps create the perfect crispy texture. Make sure to use unsalted butter so you can control the saltiness of the dish.
• Pecans: Toasted pecans bring a nutty flavor and a satisfying crunch to the topping. Chopping them roughly ensures the topping has the right balance of texture, with plenty of bite in every forkful.
• Warm Spices: Cinnamon and a hint of nutmeg add cozy, autumnal notes to the casserole. These spices accentuate the natural sweetness of the potatoes, making every bite warm and flavorful.

You'll also need some basic kitchen tools, like a 9x13-inch baking dish, a potato masher or hand mixer, and a mixing bowl for the crumble topping.

How To Make This Sweet Potato Casserole

Creating this Sweet Potato Casserole with Butter Pecan Crumble Topping is simpler than you might think. Let me guide you through each step to ensure your dish turns out perfect every time.

First, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and prepare your sweet potatoes. If you prefer a deeper flavor, roast the sweet potatoes until they’re fork-tender. Once baked, let them cool slightly before peeling and mashing them in a large bowl. You want a smooth, lump-free mash for the best texture.

Next, combine the mashed sweet potatoes with melted butter, brown sugar, a splash of vanilla extract, and a generous pinch of cinnamon and nutmeg. The mixture should be creamy and well-spiced, with just enough sweetness to complement the pecan topping.

Spread the sweet potato mixture into your baking dish, smoothing the top with a spatula. Now it’s time to prepare the star of the show: the butter pecan crumble topping. In a separate bowl, mix together chopped pecans, melted butter, brown sugar, and a touch of flour. This topping should be crumbly and well-coated in the buttery goodness.

Sprinkle the crumble evenly over the sweet potato base, pressing down gently to adhere. Pop the casserole into the oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and fragrant. The smell alone will have your family lining up for a taste!

Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. The total prep and cook time is around 45 minutes, making it a manageable addition to your holiday spread.

Storage Options

If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, this casserole stores beautifully! Here’s how to keep it fresh:

• Refrigerate: Transfer the leftovers into an airtight container and store in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through to retain the crunchy topping.
• Freeze: You can also freeze the casserole for up to 3 months. To do this, let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil. When ready to serve, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake until heated through.
• Make-Ahead Tip: You can prepare the sweet potato base and the pecan topping separately a day in advance. Keep them covered in the fridge and assemble just before baking.

Variations and Substitutions

This recipe is wonderfully flexible, so feel free to get creative and make it your own.

• Less Sweet Version: If you prefer a less sweet dish, reduce the brown sugar in the sweet potato mixture or opt for maple syrup for a milder sweetness. You can also cut back on the sugar in the pecan topping.
• Marshmallow Lovers: For a more traditional twist, add mini marshmallows on top of the pecan crumble during the last 5 minutes of baking. They’ll get golden and gooey, adding an extra layer of indulgence.
• Nut-Free Option: If you have nut allergies in the family, swap the pecans for crushed pretzels or a mixture of oats and brown sugar for a crunchy, nut-free topping.
• Dairy-Free: Use dairy-free butter and replace the heavy cream with coconut milk or almond milk. The flavor will still be rich and satisfying.
• Spicy Kick: If you like a hint of spice, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the sweet potato mixture. The subtle heat pairs surprisingly well with the sweetness.

Experimenting with these variations is half the fun. Don’t be afraid to put your spin on this classic dish – after all, every family has their own favorite version.

Enjoy creating new memories with this Sweet Potato Casserole with Butter Pecan Crumble Topping!

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