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Classic Southern Sweet Potato Casserole with Crunchy Pecan Topping

A close-up of a rich, orange slice of southern sweet potato casserole topped with a crunchy pecan streusel.

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Make this creamy, traditional Southern Sweet Potato Casserole for your next holiday gathering. This recipe features a rich, spiced sweet potato base topped with a satisfying, buttery pecan praline crunch. It is a staple side dish for Thanksgiving.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 pounds sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
  • 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
  • 1/2 cup whole milk
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup chopped pecans
  • 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar (for topping)
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375 degrees F. Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
  2. Place the sweet potato chunks in a large pot and cover with water. Bring to a boil and cook until very tender, about 15 to 20 minutes. Drain well.
  3. Transfer the cooked sweet potatoes to a large bowl. Add the melted butter, 1/2 cup granulated sugar, 1/2 cup brown sugar, eggs, milk, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
  4. Beat with an electric mixer until the mixture is completely smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust spices if needed.
  5. Spread the sweet potato mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish.
  6. Prepare the pecan topping: In a separate medium bowl, combine the chopped pecans, 1/2 cup brown sugar, flour, and softened butter. Use your fingers or a pastry blender to mix until the topping is crumbly.
  7. Sprinkle the pecan topping evenly over the sweet potato mixture.
  8. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the casserole is heated through.
  9. Let the casserole cool for 10 minutes before serving. This dish pairs well with many options, including the best meal delivery services for easy weeknight meals.

Notes

  • For a marshmallow topping instead of pecans, skip the topping instructions and sprinkle 2 cups of mini marshmallows over the casserole during the last 10 minutes of baking.
  • You can prepare the sweet potato base one day ahead and store it covered in the refrigerator. Add the topping just before baking.
  • If you are interested in meal planning for your holiday spread, this recipe fits well into any comprehensive meal planning strategy.

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