There is something truly magical about a warm, comforting Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecan Topping Recipe that brings people together around the table. This dish perfectly balances the natural sweetness of tender mashed sweet potatoes with a buttery, crunchy pecan topping that adds just the right amount of texture and nutty flavor. Whether you’re making it for a holiday feast, a weeknight dinner, or just because you crave a cozy treat, this recipe is an absolute crowd-pleaser that feels like a big, delicious hug with every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
One of the best things about this Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecan Topping Recipe is how straightforward and accessible the ingredients are. Each component plays a vital role in building layers of flavor, creaminess, and crunch, making this dish a harmonious celebration of taste and texture.
- 3 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed: The star of the dish, naturally sweet and creamy when cooked.
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted: Adds richness and helps create a smooth mash.
- 1/3 cup brown sugar (or coconut sugar): Enhances sweetness with a deep, caramel-like note.
- 1/4 cup milk (dairy or plant-based): Keeps the mixture moist and creamy.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract: Brings warmth and a subtle aromatic sweetness.
- 1/2 tsp cinnamon: Adds a cozy spice that complements the sweet potatoes perfectly.
- 1/4 tsp nutmeg: A hint of earthiness to deepen the flavor profile.
- Pinch of salt: Balances sweetness and enhances all other flavors.
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans: Provides a toasty, crunchy contrast for the topping.
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour): Helps bind the pecan topping into a crisp crumble.
- 1/4 cup brown sugar: Sweetens the pecan topping for that delightful caramelized finish.
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted: Binds the topping ingredients and makes them golden.
- Pinch of salt: Enhances the nutty crunch without overpowering.
How to Make Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecan Topping Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Dish
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) and greasing a 9×13-inch baking dish. This ensures your casserole cooks evenly and releases easily when it’s time to serve.
Step 2: Cook the Sweet Potatoes
Boil the peeled and cubed sweet potatoes in salted water for about 15 to 20 minutes until they are fork-tender. This step is crucial because perfectly cooked potatoes mash smoothly while keeping just enough structure for a creamy texture.
Step 3: Mash and Flavor the Sweet Potatoes
Drain the sweet potatoes well and let them cool slightly. Mash them in a large bowl until smooth, then stir in the melted butter, brown sugar, milk, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and a pinch of salt. Mixing these together creates a rich, sweet, and warmly spiced base that’s truly irresistible.
Step 4: Spread the Sweet Potato Mixture
Evenly spread the luscious sweet potato mash into your prepared baking dish. Creating a flat, even layer helps the pecan topping bake evenly and creates a beautiful contrast between the creamy interior and crunchy topping.
Step 5: Prepare the Pecan Topping
In a small bowl, combine chopped pecans with flour, brown sugar, melted butter, and a pinch of salt. Mix until crumbly and well combined. This streusel-like topping is the pièce de résistance — buttery, nutty, and sweet, it transforms this casserole into something truly spectacular.
Step 6: Add the Topping and Bake
Sprinkle the pecan topping evenly over the sweet potato base. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes until the topping is perfectly golden and crisp and the casserole is heated through. The aroma filling your kitchen at this point will have you counting down the minutes.
Step 7: Cool Slightly Before Serving
Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes after baking. This helps it set just enough to serve clean slices and intensifies the flavors.
How to Serve Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecan Topping Recipe
Garnishes
If you want to elevate your presentation, consider garnishing with a few extra toasted pecans or a small sprig of fresh thyme or rosemary for a subtle herbal note. Even a light drizzle of maple syrup can add an extra touch of sweetness and shine.
Side Dishes
This recipe pairs beautifully with savory sides like roasted turkey, glazed ham, or even a crisp green salad. The creamy and sweet nature of the casserole complements protein-rich dishes and balances out lighter, crunchy veggies.
Creative Ways to Present
For a charming twist, try serving this Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecan Topping in individual ramekins. This not only makes portion control easier but makes every guest feel special with a perfectly baked personal casserole.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once your casserole has cooled completely, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container. It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, making it a great dish to prepare in advance for gatherings or to enjoy as leftovers.
Freezing
You can freeze leftover sweet potato casserole by wrapping it securely with plastic wrap and then foil to prevent freezer burn. It’s best preserved for up to 2 months. When you’re ready, thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating for the best texture.
Reheating
Reheat your casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes or until warmed through. This method keeps the pecan topping crisp while warming the creamy sweet potato filling perfectly—microwaving can soften the topping and diminish the texture.
FAQs
Can I make this Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecan Topping Recipe vegan?
Absolutely! Swap out the butter for a plant-based alternative and use your favorite non-dairy milk. The natural sweetness and pecan topping still shine beautifully, making this a crowd-pleasing vegan dish.
Is it possible to prepare the casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole a day ahead, cover, and refrigerate it. Just add the pecan topping right before baking to keep it crisp and fresh.
Can I substitute other nuts for pecans?
Definitely. Walnuts or almonds work well as alternatives, offering different textures and flavors while still providing that satisfying crunch.
How do I make the topping extra crunchy?
Make sure to mix the topping ingredients until well combined but crumbly, and spread it evenly. Baking uncovered allows the nuts and sugar to caramelize perfectly, creating that wonderful crunch.
What if I want a sweeter casserole?
Feel free to increase the brown sugar slightly in both the sweet potato mash and the pecan topping. Just be careful not to overdo it—sweet potatoes already have natural sweetness that pairs best with a balanced touch.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about sinking your fork into a warm serving of Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecan Topping Recipe. It feels like tradition and comfort rolled into one fantastic dish that’s as beautiful on the table as it is delicious on the palate. If you haven’t tried making this yet, do yourself a favor and give it a go—you’ll be so glad you did.
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Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecan Topping Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecan Topping is a comforting and delicious side dish perfect for holiday meals or any cozy dinner. Creamy mashed sweet potatoes are combined with warm spices and topped with a buttery, crunchy pecan streusel. Baked to a golden perfection, it offers a delightful balance of sweetness and texture.
Ingredients
Sweet Potato Mixture
- 3 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/3 cup brown sugar (or coconut sugar)
- 1/4 cup milk (dairy or plant-based)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 tsp cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp nutmeg
- Pinch of salt
Pecan Topping
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour)
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking and ensure easy serving.
- Cook the Sweet Potatoes: Boil the peeled and cubed sweet potatoes in salted water for 15-20 minutes, or until they are fork-tender, then drain and let them cool slightly to prepare for mashing.
- Mash and Mix the Sweet Potatoes: In a large bowl, mash the sweet potatoes until smooth, then mix in melted butter, brown sugar, milk, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and a pinch of salt until the mixture is creamy and well combined.
- Prepare the Baking Dish: Spread the sweet potato mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish, creating a smooth surface for the topping.
- Make the Pecan Topping: In a small bowl, combine the chopped pecans, flour, brown sugar, melted butter, and a pinch of salt. Mix until the ingredients form a crumbly texture perfect for sprinkling.
- Assemble the Casserole: Evenly sprinkle the pecan topping over the sweet potato layer in the baking dish, covering it completely.
- Bake the Casserole: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the casserole is heated through.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the casserole to cool slightly before serving to let it set and make serving easier.
Notes
- You can substitute coconut sugar for brown sugar for a different flavor profile.
- Use plant-based milk to make this recipe dairy-free.
- For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free flour instead of all-purpose flour in the pecan topping.
- Make sure to not overcook the sweet potatoes to avoid them becoming too watery.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
