This Creamy Baked Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecan Topping Is a Family Favorite—Perfect for Thanksgiving and Christmas!
My family can’t get enough of this delectable sweet potato casserole, especially with its rich pecan topping. They request it every holiday season! Try this recipe; I’m confident it will become a cherished part of your holiday traditions.
No holiday gathering is complete without adding a sweet potato casserole. This dish is expertly seasoned and features a delectable pecan topping, making it the ultimate recipe for sweet potato casserole you’ll want to keep for years.
Table of Contents
How to Prepare Sweet Potato Casserole
For the complete, detailed recipe, please see the full instructions below. Here’s a quick summary of the steps involved in creating this beloved sweet potato casserole:
- Cook and Mash the Sweet Potatoes: Boil or steam the sweet potatoes until tender, then mash them until smooth.
- Combine the Ingredients: Mix the ingredients for the casserole and pour the mixture into a baking dish.
- Prepare the Topping: Create the pecan topping and evenly distribute it over the sweet potato mixture.
- Bake: Place the casserole in the Oven until the topping is golden and crispy.
Can You Prepare Sweet Potato Casserole in Advance?
Absolutely! You can make this sweet potato casserole one to two days ahead, making it an excellent option for prepping for Thanksgiving. To do this, prepare the filling and topping separately without baking. Cover the baking dish tightly and store the topping in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
When ready to serve, add the topping to the sweet potato mixture and bake as directed. Due to the cold ingredients, you might need to extend the baking time slightly to ensure it heats through properly.
Ingredients
For the Sweet Potatoes:
- 4 cups of peeled and cubed sweet potatoes
- Two large eggs, beaten
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup milk
- Four tablespoons of softened butter
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon salt
For the Pecan Topping:
- ½ cup packed brown sugar
- ⅓ cup all-purpose flour
- Three tablespoons softened butter
- ½ cup chopped pecans
Directions
Step 1:
Gather the ingredients. Preheat the Oven to 325°F (165°C).
Step 2:
Preparing the Sweet Potatoes: Place the sweet potatoes in a medium saucepan and add enough water to cover them completely. Cook on medium-high heat until they become tender, typically 10 to 15 minutes.
Step 3:
Mash drained sweet potatoes with a fork. Add eggs; mix until well combined. Combine the sugar, milk, butter, vanilla extract, and salt in a bowl, then stir until completely smooth. This blending process helps create a harmonious flavor that enhances your dish. Transfer to a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Step 4:
Add sugar, milk, butter, vanilla, and salt, then stir the mixture until it reaches a smooth consistency. This step ensures that all the ingredients blend well, creating a delicious base for your dish. Cut in butter with a pastry cutter until the mixture is coarse and resembles peas; don’t overmix. Stir in pecans. Sprinkle topping over sweet potato mixture.
Step 5:
Place the dish in the preheated Oven and bake until the topping is golden brown, which should take around 30 minutes. This will ensure that the topping achieves the perfect texture and flavor.
Step 6:
Serve and enjoy!
What to Pair with Sweet Potato Casserole
My family adores sweet potatoes in any form. From simple baked sweet potatoes and creamy mashed sweet potatoes to delicious sweet potato biscuits, sweet potato dishes are a staple at our table because they are warm and comforting.
For a well-rounded meal, consider serving your sweet potato casserole alongside:
- Roasted Vegetables: They add a nice contrast and depth to the meal.
- Green Beans or Brussels Sprouts: These provide a fresh, crunchy texture that complements the creamy casserole.
- Stuffed Turkey or Ham: A savory protein pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the casserole.
- Cornbread or Dinner Rolls are great for soaking up delicious sauces or gravies.
In conclusion, Delicious Sweet Potato Casserole Delight is the perfect combination of creamy, smooth sweet potatoes and a deliciously crunchy topping, making it a favorite for holidays and special gatherings. Its blend of rich, sweet flavors with a hint of savory creates a dish that appeals to a wide range of tastes. Whether served as a side dish or a dessert, this casserole delivers warmth and comfort in every bite. With its festive flavors and textures, it’s sure to become a highlight on any table, offering a delightful twist on traditional sweet potato dishes that will leave guests asking for more.
Notes
Topping: If you prefer a marshmallow topping, simply cover the casserole with a layer of mini marshmallows and bake for around 25 minutes or until the marshmallows are golden and puffed.
Nut Allergy: If you’re avoiding nuts, leave them out or replace them with ½ cup of rolled oats for added texture.
Make-Ahead Instructions: This sweet potato casserole can be prepared 1-2 days ahead. Start by making the filling and spreading it into your baking dish. Prepare the topping separately and store it. When ready to bake, add the topping before putting it in the Oven. Check out other fantastic Make-Ahead Thanksgiving recipes for more ideas.
Freezing Instructions: Assemble the casserole completely, but do not bake it. Wrap it with two layers of aluminum foil and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to cook, thaw in the refrigerator overnight. Let it sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before baking.
conclusion
In conclusion, the Delicious Sweet Potato Casserole Delight is the ultimate combination of creamy, buttery sweet potatoes and a crunchy, flavorful topping that brings out the best in sweet and savory tastes. This dish is a holiday staple and a perfect addition to any family dinner, providing warmth and comfort in every bite. Whether topped with marshmallows, pecans, or a crumbly streusel, this casserole is guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser that your guests will look forward to year after year. Its delightful blend of textures and flavors will make it a standout at any table.