If you’re craving a dish that feels like a warm hug in food form, then this Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecan Topping Recipe is exactly what you need. It’s a comforting classic loaded with creamy sweet potatoes and crowned with a crunchy, buttery pecan topping that’s nothing short of irresistible. Whether it’s for a holiday feast or a cozy family dinner, this casserole delivers a perfect balance of sweet and nutty flavors that make every bite pure joy.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe keeps things wonderfully simple, relying on a handful of essential ingredients that each bring something special to your casserole. From the natural sweetness and smooth texture of the sweet potatoes to the rich crunch of pecans, every component plays a starring role in the final dish.
- Sweet potatoes: Use about 4 medium, peeled and cubed for that creamy base that’s both sweet and hearty.
- Brown sugar: Adds warmth and depth, sweetening both the mashed potatoes and the pecan topping perfectly.
- Milk: Just a splash to smooth out the mashed potatoes and keep them luscious and soft.
- Butter: Melted butter enriches the mashed potatoes and binds the pecan topping with a rich, toasty flavor.
- Vanilla extract: A touch of vanilla elevates the sweetness, making the casserole taste just like a homemade dessert.
- Pecans: Chopped pecans bring that signature crunch and nutty flavor that make this recipe unforgettable.
- Flour: Helps the topping hold together while baking, creating a crisp texture that contrasts beautifully with the soft sweet potatoes.
How to Make Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecan Topping Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures it’s nice and hot when you’re ready to bake, giving your casserole that golden, bubbly finish.
Step 2: Cook the Sweet Potatoes
Boil the peeled and cubed sweet potatoes until they are tender—this usually takes about 15 to 20 minutes. You want them soft enough to mash smoothly but not falling apart.
Step 3: Mash and Flavor
Drain the sweet potatoes thoroughly, then mash them in a large bowl until creamy. Stir in brown sugar, milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract until everything is well combined and the mixture is smooth and sweet.
Step 4: Make the Pecan Topping
In a separate bowl, mix together the chopped pecans, brown sugar, flour, and melted butter. Stir until the mixture forms crumbly clusters that will crisp beautifully during baking.
Step 5: Assemble Your Casserole
Grease your baking dish lightly, then spread the sweet potato mixture evenly inside. Sprinkle the pecan topping across the surface, covering the sweet potatoes completely.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Pop it into the oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes. You’re looking for a golden-brown, slightly crispy topping that perfectly complements the creamy layer beneath.
How to Serve Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecan Topping Recipe
Garnishes
To add a little extra pop, sprinkle some whole pecans on top right after baking, or add a small drizzle of maple syrup for extra sweetness that complements the vanilla notes beautifully.
Side Dishes
This casserole pairs effortlessly with savory mains like roasted turkey, glazed ham, or even a hearty grilled chicken. The sweet, nutty flavors bring out the best in these proteins, making it a fantastic side dish for any meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecan Topping Recipe in individual ramekins to give each guest their own personal portion. You can also garnish with a sprig of fresh rosemary to add a subtle herbal note and a pop of color.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecan Topping in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. This way, the flavors stay fresh and the texture remains invitingly creamy and crunchy.
Freezing
You can freeze the casserole either before or after baking. Just wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and foil, or use a freezer-safe container. It freezes well for up to 2 months and makes meal prep a breeze.
Reheating
Reheat the casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes or until warmed through. This keeps the pecan topping crisp and the sweet potatoes creamy, just like fresh out of the oven.
FAQs
Can I use canned sweet potatoes instead of fresh?
While fresh sweet potatoes are preferred for their texture and flavor, you can use canned as a shortcut. Just be sure to drain them well and mash thoroughly to avoid excess liquid in the casserole.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegan?
Absolutely! Swap the butter for a plant-based alternative and use your favorite plant-based milk instead of dairy milk. The casserole will still be rich and delicious.
Can I prepare the topping ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the pecan topping a day ahead and store it in the fridge. Just bring it to room temperature before spreading it on the sweet potato mixture.
What’s the best way to peel sweet potatoes quickly?
Using a sharp vegetable peeler or a paring knife makes peeling fast and easy. For tougher skins, soften them a bit by microwaving the sweet potato for 30 seconds first.
Can I add marshmallows on top?
Some love adding marshmallows for a gooey, sweet twist. If you do, add them during the last 5 minutes of baking to prevent burning and get them perfectly melted and golden.
Final Thoughts
This Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecan Topping Recipe brings together delightful flavors and textures to create a dish that’s both familiar and special. It’s truly a showstopper on any table and comforting enough to enjoy any day of the year. Give it a try—you might just have found your new favorite way to enjoy sweet potatoes!
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Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecan Topping Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecan Topping is a comforting and classic dish perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy family dinners. Creamy mashed sweet potatoes are sweetened with brown sugar and vanilla, then topped with a crunchy, buttery pecan crumble and baked to golden perfection.
Ingredients
Sweet Potato Mixture
- 4 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup milk
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Pecan Topping
- 1 cup pecans, chopped
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup flour
- 3 tablespoons butter, melted
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking the casserole.
- Cook Sweet Potatoes: Boil the peeled and cubed sweet potatoes in a large pot of water until they are tender and easily pierced with a fork, about 15-20 minutes.
- Mash and Mix: Drain the sweet potatoes and transfer them to a large bowl. Mash them until smooth, then stir in the brown sugar, milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract until everything is well combined and creamy.
- Prepare Pecan Topping: In a separate bowl, mix the chopped pecans, brown sugar, flour, and melted butter together until the mixture becomes crumbly and evenly coated.
- Assemble Casserole: Grease a baking dish and spread the sweet potato mixture evenly in the dish. Sprinkle the pecan topping evenly over the sweet potatoes.
- Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and crisp.
Notes
- For a dairy-free version, substitute the butter and milk with plant-based alternatives.
- You can prepare the pecan topping in advance and refrigerate it until ready to use.
- Adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the sweet potato mixture can add extra warmth and flavor.
- Make sure not to overcook the sweet potatoes to avoid a watery mash.
- This casserole can be reheated in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes before serving.
