Sweet potato casserole recipe is more than just a side dish—it’s a holiday tradition. Whether it’s on the Thanksgiving table next to the turkey or making an appearance at Christmas dinner, this dish brings warmth, nostalgia, and a perfect balance of flavors.
Some love it for its creamy, smooth filling, while others can’t get enough of the crunchy pecan topping. And let’s not forget the marshmallow lovers who insist that a layer of golden, toasted marshmallows is what makes it complete. No matter which camp you fall into, one thing is certain—sweet potato casserole is a crowd-pleaser.
This recipe walks you through the process of making the perfect sweet potato casserole, including tips to enhance the flavor, make-ahead options, and variations to suit different preferences.
Why This Sweet Potato Casserole Stands Out
Sweet potato casserole is often overlooked as just another side dish, but when made right, it can steal the spotlight. This version brings together the best elements:
- A smooth, rich sweet potato base with just the right amount of sweetness
- A crunchy, buttery pecan topping that contrasts beautifully with the soft filling
- The option to add marshmallows for those who love that gooey, toasted finish
- A make-ahead option to save time during busy holiday cooking
This casserole isn’t just for Thanksgiving or Christmas—it works for any time of year when you want a comforting, sweet-savory dish to pair with roasted meats, barbecue, or even as a dessert-like side.
Ingredients You’ll Need
A great sweet potato casserole starts with quality ingredients. Everything in this recipe is simple, easy to find, and comes together to create a dish that’s full of flavor.
- Sweet potatoes – Most grocery stores label them as “yams,” but they’re actually sweet potatoes. Real yams have white flesh and rough brown skin, so don’t worry—you’re getting the right thing.
- Unsalted butter – Adds richness to both the filling and the crunchy streusel topping.
- Salt – Enhances flavor and keeps the sweetness balanced.
- Light brown sugar – Sweetens the potatoes while adding a deep, molasses-like warmth.
- Ground nutmeg – Brings out the natural sweetness of the potatoes with a subtle spice.
- Eggs – Help bind the mixture and give the casserole structure.
- Flour – The key to a perfect streusel topping.
- Ground cinnamon – Adds warmth and spice to the crunchy pecan topping.
- Pecans – Provide a nutty crunch that pairs beautifully with the creamy sweet potatoes.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Boil the Sweet Potatoes
Peel and chop the sweet potatoes, then boil in a large pot of water for 20–25 minutes, until fork-tender. Drain and let them cool slightly.
2. Make the Streusel Topping
Melt the butter in a bowl. Stir in brown sugar, flour, and cinnamon until clumpy. Add the chopped pecans and mix well.
3. Mash the Sweet Potatoes
Place the cooked potatoes in a large bowl and mash until smooth using a fork or potato masher.
4. Mix the Filling
Stir in melted butter, salt, brown sugar, and nutmeg. Mix well, then add the eggs and stir until combined. The mixture doesn’t have to be completely smooth.
5. Assemble the Casserole
Spread the sweet potato mixture evenly in a 2-quart baking dish. Sprinkle the pecan streusel topping over the top.
6. Bake
Bake uncovered at 350°F for about 40 minutes, until the topping is golden brown. Let it cool slightly before serving.
Essential Tips
Roast for More Flavor: Instead of boiling, roast the sweet potatoes at 400°F for about an hour. This caramelizes their natural sugars, giving the casserole a deeper, richer taste.
Don’t Skip the Eggs: Eggs help bind the filling, giving it a smooth, custard-like texture. Let the mashed sweet potatoes cool slightly before adding them to prevent scrambling.
Make It Ahead: Save time by preparing the casserole a day in advance. Assemble everything, cover, and refrigerate. Add the topping just before baking for the best texture.
Balance Sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet version, reduce the brown sugar in the filling or add a touch of salt to balance the flavors without overpowering the dish.
Make-Ahead and Storage Tips
Holiday cooking can be hectic, so anything that saves time is a win. Sweet potato casserole is an excellent dish to prepare ahead of time.
How to Make It Ahead of Time
- Prepare the filling and topping separately. Assemble the filling in the baking dish and store the pecan topping in an airtight container.
- Refrigerate overnight. Cover the baking dish with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate for up to 24 hours.
- Bake when ready. Remove the dish from the fridge about 30 minutes before baking to bring it to room temperature. Sprinkle the topping just before placing it in the oven.
How to Store Leftovers
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days.
To reheat, bake at 350°F for about 15 minutes, or microwave individual portions until warm.
Variations and Substitutions
Sweet potato casserole is a versatile dish, and there are plenty of ways to tweak the recipe to suit different tastes.
Different Toppings
- No nuts? Swap the pecans for oats or sunflower seeds for crunch without the nuts.
- Want extra crunch? Add crushed graham crackers or granola to the topping.
- Maple lovers? Replace the brown sugar in the topping with pure maple syrup for a deeper flavor.
Healthier Alternatives
- Reduce the sugar. Cut the brown sugar in the filling in half for a more natural sweetness.
- Use coconut milk. Swap the milk for coconut milk for a dairy-free version.
- Try almond flour. Replace the all-purpose flour with almond flour for a gluten-free topping.
Savory Twist
- Skip the sugar. Make a more savory casserole by omitting the brown sugar from the filling and topping.
- Add cheese. A sprinkle of sharp cheddar on top before baking creates a rich, cheesy contrast.
- Use herbs. Add a pinch of rosemary or thyme for an herby, comforting twist.
Sweet Potato Casserole with Brown Sugar and Pecans
One of the best things about sweet potato casserole with brown sugar and pecans is how it balances sweetness and crunch. The brown sugar adds a deep, caramel-like flavor that pairs perfectly with the natural sweetness of the potatoes. When combined with chopped pecans and melted butter, it creates a crunchy topping that contrasts beautifully with the smooth, creamy base. If you love a bit of texture in your casseroles, this version is a must-try.
To make the topping even more irresistible, try lightly toasting the pecans before mixing them with the brown sugar and butter. This enhances their nutty flavor and gives the topping an extra layer of richness. If you prefer a chunkier texture, you can leave some pecans whole rather than chopping them finely.
Southern Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe
A Southern sweet potato casserole recipe sticks to tradition—rich, buttery, and just sweet enough to feel indulgent without being overwhelming. Many Southern recipes rely on a combination of brown sugar, vanilla, and cinnamon to bring out the best in the sweet potatoes. Some even add a hint of nutmeg or a splash of bourbon for extra depth.
In true Southern fashion, the debate between pecans and marshmallows is alive and well. Some families stick to the classic pecan topping, while others insist that marshmallows make the dish complete. If you’re serving a crowd, consider making a half-and-half casserole so everyone gets what they love.
Healthy Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe
If you’re looking for a lighter version, a healthy sweet potato casserole recipe can still be delicious without all the extra sugar and butter. Instead of traditional brown sugar, you can sweeten the filling naturally with pure maple syrup or honey. Using coconut milk or almond milk instead of heavy cream also cuts down on calories while keeping the dish creamy.
For the topping, swapping chopped nuts and oats for flour-based streusel gives you a crunchy texture with more nutrients. You can even add unsweetened shredded coconut or a sprinkle of flaxseeds for extra fiber. This version keeps all the comforting flavors intact while making it a bit more guilt-free.
Sweet Potato Casserole Without Eggs
If you need a variation that’s egg-free, it’s easy to make a sweet potato casserole without eggs without sacrificing texture. The eggs in a traditional recipe help bind the ingredients together, but you can achieve the same smooth consistency with a few simple swaps.
One option is to use a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water) as a substitute. Another alternative is simply adding a bit more milk or cream to keep the mixture moist. If you like a slightly firmer texture, a couple of tablespoons of cornstarch can also help thicken the filling. This is a great option for those with egg allergies or anyone following a plant-based diet.
FAQs
Is it Better to Bake or Boil Sweet Potatoes for a Casserole?
Baking sweet potatoes brings out their natural sweetness by caramelizing their sugars, creating a richer flavor. Boiling, on the other hand, makes them softer and slightly less sweet but is quicker and helps retain moisture. If you have time, baking enhances the depth of flavor, but if you’re in a hurry, boiling works just fine. Both methods will give you a creamy, delicious sweet potato casserole.
What Goes in Sweet Potato Casserole?
A classic sweet potato casserole includes mashed sweet potatoes, butter, brown sugar, eggs, and warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg. The topping varies depending on personal preference, with some using a crunchy pecan streusel made with brown sugar, flour, and butter, while others go for a toasted marshmallow layer. Some variations even add a splash of vanilla or a hint of maple syrup for extra flavor.
Why Do You Soak Sweet Potatoes Before Baking?
Soaking sweet potatoes before baking isn’t necessary for a casserole, but it can help remove excess starch, resulting in a firmer texture if you’re making roasted or fried sweet potatoes. For a casserole, you typically want a soft, creamy consistency, so this step isn’t needed. However, if you’re slicing them for a layered casserole or gratin, a short soak can help prevent them from becoming too mushy.
What Are the Ingredients in Savannah Classic Sweet Potato Casserole?
Savannah Classic Sweet Potato Casserole is a store-bought version made with sweet potatoes, brown sugar, eggs, butter, milk, and spices. It typically comes with a pecan streusel topping or marshmallows. While convenient, homemade versions often have a fresher taste and allow you to control the sweetness and texture to your liking. If you love the classic Southern-style version, making it from scratch is well worth the effort.
Why Sweet Potato Casserole Belongs on Your Table
There’s a reason sweet potato casserole has been a staple on holiday menus for generations. It brings together the best flavors of fall—sweet, nutty, buttery, and spiced—while providing a comforting side dish that pairs well with just about anything.
Whether you stick with the classic recipe, load it up with marshmallows, or try a new twist, this dish is guaranteed to be a hit. The best part? It’s easy to make, stores well, and always tastes just as good the next day.
If you’ve never made sweet potato casserole from scratch, now’s the time. Once you try this homemade version, there’s no going back to store-bought or canned substitutes. It’s rich, satisfying, and worth every bite.
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sweet potato casserole
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Sweet potato casserole recipe with a rich, creamy filling and a crunchy pecan topping. Perfect for Thanksgiving and holiday dinners!
Ingredients
- Sweet Potatoes – Often mislabeled as “yams” in stores, but true yams have white flesh and rough brown skin. What you find in most grocery stores are actually sweet potatoes.
- Unsalted Butter – Adds richness to the filling and helps create a crisp, buttery streusel topping.
- Salt – Balances the sweetness and enhances the overall flavor.
- Light Brown Sugar – Provides sweetness with a hint of molasses for depth.
- Ground Nutmeg – A warm spice that enhances the natural sweetness of the potatoes.
- Eggs – Help bind the mixture, creating a smooth and structured filling.
- Flour – Forms the base of the streusel topping, giving it a crumbly texture.
- Ground Cinnamon – Adds warmth and spice, complementing the pecan topping.
- Pecans – Deliver a crunchy, nutty contrast to the creamy sweet potatoes.
Instructions
Peel and chop the sweet potatoes, then boil in a large pot of water for 20–25 minutes, until fork-tender. Drain and let them cool slightly.
Melt the butter in a bowl. Stir in brown sugar, flour, and cinnamon until clumpy. Add the chopped pecans and mix well.
Place the cooked potatoes in a large bowl and mash until smooth using a fork or potato masher.
Stir in melted butter, salt, brown sugar, and nutmeg. Mix well, then add the eggs and stir until combined. The mixture doesn’t have to be completely smooth.
Spread the sweet potato mixture evenly in a 2-quart baking dish. Sprinkle the pecan streusel topping over the top.
Bake uncovered at 350°F for about 40 minutes, until the topping is golden brown. Let it cool slightly before serving.
Notes
- For a richer flavor, use roasted sweet potatoes instead of boiled.
- The casserole can be assembled a day ahead and baked before serving.
- Adjust the sugar to taste for a sweeter or more balanced dish.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion (1/8 of casserole)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
Keywords: sweet potato casserole, Thanksgiving side dish, holiday casserole, Southern sweet potato casserole, pecan topping, baked sweet potatoes, easy casserole recipe, classic sweet potato casserole, creamy sweet potato dish, homemade casserole
