Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe

This Sweet Potato Casserole combines creamy mashed sweet potatoes with a buttery brown sugar and pecan topping, creating the perfect blend of sweetness and crunch. It’s a crowd-pleaser for holidays or any cozy family gathering, bringing comfort and warmth to every bite.

There’s something comforting about a warm, fragrant Sweet Potato Casserole bubbling in the oven on a chilly Day. For many, it’s a classic dish tied to holiday memories or cozy family dinners. This Sweet Potato Casserole is a delightful blend of creamy mashed sweet potatoes topped with a crunchy layer of pecans or marshmallows—an ideal balance of sweet and savory. Whether served as a side or a dessert, it always pleases a crowd. Let’s dive into how you can recreate this traditional favorite at home.

Sweet Potato Casserole

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  1. Classic Holiday Flavor: Sweet potatoes, butter, and brown sugar combine to create a cozy, festive taste perfect for Thanksgiving or Christmas.
  2. Customizable Toppings: There’s a topping for everyone’s taste, from pecans for crunch to marshmallows for extra sweetness.
  3. Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, it’s accessible for cooks of all skill levels.
  4. Crowd-Pleaser: This casserole is a hit for adults and kids, making it perfect for gatherings.

Ingredients and Substitutions

  • Sweet Potatoes are the star of the dish. They offer natural sweetness and a creamy texture. Though sweet potatoes are generally preferred, you can substitute yams for a slightly different taste.
  • Butter: Adds richness. You can use vegan butter if you want to make it dairy-free.
  • Brown Sugar: Used in the topping for caramel-like depth. Substitute with coconut sugar for a healthier option.
  • Pecans: A classic crunchy topping. If you’re nut-free, replace it with granola or skip it entirely.

Nutrition Information (per serving)

  • Serving Size: 1/8 of the casserole
  • Calories: 310
  • Sugar: 18g
  • Sodium: 170mg
  • Fat: 14g
  • Saturated Fat: 7g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 6g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 42g
  • Fiber: 4g
  • Protein: 4g
  • Cholesterol: 55mg

Ingredients

  • 4 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
  • ½ cup granulated sugar
  • ¼ cup milk
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • ½ tsp salt
  • ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
  • Topping:
    • ½ cup packed brown sugar
    • ⅓ cup all-purpose flour
    • ⅓ cup unsalted butter, melted
    • 1 cup chopped pecans (or marshmallows for a sweeter option)

How to Make Sweet Potato Casserole (Step-by-Step)

  1. Boil and Mash the Potatoes: Boil the sweet potatoes until fork-tender. Drain, cool, and mash until smooth to create a creamy base.
  2. Prepare the Filling: Mix the mashed sweet potatoes with milk, eggs, vanilla, sugar, and butter. The eggs help bind the mixture together, while the vanilla adds a subtle warmth.
  3. Assemble the Casserole: Pour the filling into a greased baking dish, spreading it evenly.
  4. Make the Topping: Combine brown sugar, flour, butter, and pecans. Sprinkle this over the casserole for a crunchy, caramelized layer.
  5. Bake: Place the dish in a preheated oven and bake until the topping is golden brown and the casserole is hot throughout.

Expert Tips for Success

  • Make Ahead: Assemble the casserole the night before and refrigerate it. When it’s chilled, add a few minutes to the baking time.
  • Perfectly Smooth Potatoes: Use a hand mixer if you want ultra-smooth sweet potatoes, but avoid overmixing.
  • Adjust the Sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet casserole, reduce the brown sugar in the topping.

Variations and Customizations

  1. Dairy-Free: Use almond milk and vegan butter to make it dairy-free.
  2. Nut-Free: Skip the pecans and try a crumb topping with oats, butter, and brown sugar.
  3. Spiced Twist: Add a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg to the filling for a warm, spiced flavor.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

  • Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
  • Freeze: Casserole can be frozen for up to a month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
  • Reheat: Warm in a 350°F oven for about 15-20 minutes or microwave individual portions for 1-2 minutes.

Serving Suggestions

This Sweet Potato Casserole pairs beautifully with other holiday dishes, such as:

  • Roasted turkey or ham
  • Cranberry sauce
  • Green bean casserole
  • Fresh dinner rolls or cornbread

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I make this casserole without eggs?
A: Yes! You can use a flaxseed or chia egg as a binding substitute or omit it for a slightly softer texture.

Q: Is it better with pecans or marshmallows?
A: Both work wonderfully! Pecans add a crunch and a nutty flavor, while marshmallows provide extra sweetness.

Q: Can I add spices to the filling?
A: Absolutely! Cinnamon, nutmeg, or even a hint of ginger adds a warming touch to the casserole.

Q: How can I make this recipe ahead?
A: Assemble the casserole, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.

Sweet Potato Casserole
  1. Pumpkin Casserole – Another creamy, cozy dish for autumn gatherings.
  2. Maple-Glazed Carrots – A sweet, caramelized vegetable to complement your holiday spread.
  3. Mashed Potato Bake – A creamy potato dish that’s rich and comforting.

Conclusion

Sweet Potato Casserole is a classic, comforting side dish full of flavor and texture. It brings a touch of sweetness to any holiday meal, with a rich layer of toppings to make it extra special. Try out this recipe for your next family gathering, and watch it become a staple on your table. Enjoy every spoonful, knowing it’s made with love and a sprinkle of holiday magic!

Easy Moroccan Stuffed Eggplant (Beef or Lamb)

Sweet Potato Casserole

A creamy, sweet, and crunchy sweet potato dish that’s perfect for family gatherings.

  • 4 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
  • ½ cup granulated sugar
  • ½ cup milk
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • ½ tsp salt
  • ½ cup unsalted butter, melted

Topping

  • ½ cup packed brown sugar
  • ⅓ cup all-purpose flour
  • ⅓ cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 cup chopped pecans (or marshmallows for a sweeter option)
  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a baking dish (9×13 inches) lightly with butter or cooking spray.

  2. Boil sweet potatoes in a pot until tender, about 15-20 minutes. Drain and let cool slightly.

  3. Mash the sweet potatoes until smooth, then add sugar, milk, eggs, vanilla, salt, and melted butter. Mix until well combined and smooth.

  4. Spread the sweet potato mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish.

  5. In a separate bowl, prepare the topping by combining brown sugar, flour, melted butter, and pecans. Stir until the mixture resembles a crumble.

  6. Sprinkle the topping evenly over the sweet potato mixture.

  7. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes or until the top is golden brown and slightly crispy.

  8. Remove from oven and allow to cool slightly before serving.

For a sweeter topping, replace pecans with mini marshmallows.

Side Dish
American
Sweet Potato Casserole

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