Ultimate Sweet Potato Casserole with Buttery Pecan Topping

There’s something magical about the aroma of sweet potatoes baking in the oven, mingling with the rich scent of butter and sugar. This Sweet Potato Casserole with Buttery Pecan Topping is not just a dish; it’s a hug in a casserole dish. comforting chicken cobbler casserole Imagine sinking your spoon into creamy, velvety sweet potato goodness topped with a crunchy pecan layer that practically sings to your taste buds. creamy chicken corn chowder You can almost hear the angels harmonizing as you take that first bite.

This delightful casserole has been a staple at my family gatherings for years, often making an appearance at Thanksgiving Mashed Potatoes while I was over here savoring my sweet potato masterpiece. perfect cornbread casserole side It’s perfect for holiday feasts or cozy dinners when you want to impress without breaking a sweat in the kitchen.

I once brought this dish to a potluck, and let’s just say I earned the unofficial title of “Casserole Queen” after my friends demolished it within minutes.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Sweet Potatoes: Look for firm sweet potatoes without blemishes; they should be vibrant in color for maximum sweetness.

• Brown Sugar: This adds caramel-like sweetness; dark brown sugar enhances richness even further.

• Butter: Use unsalted butter to control the saltiness; nothing beats that creamy texture.

• Pecans: Choose fresh pecans for the topping; lightly toast them for an extra crunch.

• Vanilla Extract: A splash of vanilla elevates the sweet potato’s natural flavors beautifully.

• Cinnamon: A sprinkle of ground cinnamon brings warmth and depth to this comforting dish.

• Eggs: These bind everything together and give the casserole its rich texture.

• Milk or Cream: Use whole milk or heavy cream for that luscious creaminess that makes you swoon.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick spray; you want nothing sticking here because we’re all about smooth sailing.

Prepare the Sweet Potatoes: Peel and chop your sweet potatoes into even chunks. Boil them in salted water until fork-tender—about 15-20 minutes should do it.

Mash Them Up: Drain those sweet potatoes and return them to the pot. Add in butter, brown sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, eggs, and milk or cream. Mash until smooth and creamy—it should resemble fluffy clouds.

Spread Evenly: Pour your luscious mixture into the greased baking dish. Spread it out evenly so every bite gets equal love from that buttery pecan topping.

Create the Topping: In a separate bowl, mix chopped pecans with melted butter and more brown sugar until well combined. Sprinkle this mixture generously over your sweet potato base—it’s like adding jewelry to an already stunning dress.

Bake Away: Place the assembled casserole into your preheated oven and bake for about 30-35 minutes or until it’s bubbly and golden on top. The aroma will have everyone flocking toward your kitchen like moths to a flame.

Now you have a Sweet Potato Casserole with Buttery Pecan Topping that will not only satisfy your cravings but also become an instant favorite among family and friends! delicious holiday dessert cookies.

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by boiling sweet potatoes until tender, then mash and mix with sugar, eggs, and spices before layering with the pecan topping. Bake at 350°F for about 30-35 minutes.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap brown sugar for maple syrup or add mini marshmallows for extra sweetness. You could even sprinkle in some cinnamon or nutmeg to spice things up!

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover casserole in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes.

Sweet potato casserole always brings back memories of Thanksgiving dinners at my aunt’s house when we’d fight over the last scoop! For more inspiration, check out this Thanksgiving Sweet Potato Au Gratin recipe.

FAQ

Can I make sweet potato casserole ahead of time?

Yes, prepare the casserole the day before and refrigerate before baking.

What can I substitute for pecans?

Walnuts or almonds work well as alternatives to pecans.

Is sweet potato casserole healthy?

It can be healthy if you reduce sugar and use less butter; it’s still nutritious!