The Best Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe

Sweet potato casserole is a timeless dish that perfectly combines the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with the crunch of a decadent topping. Whether you’re preparing it for a holiday feast, a family dinner, or just a comfort food craving, this recipe is guaranteed to impress everyone at the table. Here, we present the ultimate sweet potato casserole recipe that stands out for its taste, texture, and easy preparation.

Ingredients for Sweet Potato Casserole

To achieve the perfect balance of flavors, you’ll need the following ingredients:

For the Sweet Potato Base

• 4 cups mashed sweet potatoes (about 4 large sweet potatoes)
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
• 1/3 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1/2 cup whole milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional, for added warmth)

For the Crunchy Pecan Topping

• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup chopped pecans

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How to Make Sweet Potato Casserole

Follow these step-by-step instructions to make the best sweet potato casserole:

Step 1: Prepare the Sweet Potatoes

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Peel and cube the sweet potatoes. Place them in a large pot of salted water and bring to a boil. Cook until the potatoes are tender, about 15-20 minutes.
3. Drain the sweet potatoes and mash them until smooth. A potato masher or an electric mixer works perfectly for this step.

Step 2: Make the Sweet Potato Mixture

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed sweet potatoes with sugar, eggs, melted butter, milk, vanilla extract, and cinnamon (if using).
2. Mix until the ingredients are fully incorporated and the texture is creamy.

Step 3: Prepare the Topping

1. In a medium-sized bowl, mix the flour, brown sugar, and softened butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
2. Stir in the chopped pecans to create the topping.

Step 4: Assemble the Casserole

1. Spread the sweet potato mixture evenly into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Sprinkle the pecan topping evenly over the sweet potato layer.

Step 5: Bake the Casserole

1. Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and crispy.
2. Let the casserole cool for about 5 minutes before serving.

Tips for the Perfect Sweet Potato Casserole

1. Use Fresh Sweet Potatoes: Fresh sweet potatoes provide a better texture and flavor compared to canned ones.
2. Make It Ahead: This casserole can be assembled the day before and refrigerated. Simply bake it fresh on the day of serving.
3. Customize the Topping: Add shredded coconut, marshmallows, or oats to the pecan topping for unique variations.
4. Make It Healthier: Swap the sugar with maple syrup or honey, and use almond milk instead of whole milk for a lighter version.

Why This Recipe Stands Out

Our sweet potato casserole recipe strikes the perfect balance between sweet and savory. The creamy base pairs beautifully with the crunchy pecan topping, creating a dish that is as indulgent as it is satisfying. The use of simple, wholesome ingredients ensures that every bite bursts with flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Sweet potato casserole is traditionally served as a side dish, but its rich and flavorful profile makes it a great addition to almost any meal. Pair it with:

• Roasted turkey or chicken for a classic holiday spread.
• Glazed ham for a sweet and savory combination.
• A fresh green salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced plate.

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Variations to Try

Classic Marshmallow Topping

For those who love the gooey sweetness of marshmallows, replace the pecan topping with a layer of mini marshmallows. Add them during the last 10 minutes of baking to prevent burning.

Nut-Free Version

If you’re catering to guests with nut allergies, substitute the pecans with sunflower seeds or skip the topping altogether and sprinkle some brown sugar and butter over the top.

Vegan-Friendly Sweet Potato Casserole

Replace the eggs with a flaxseed meal (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal + 2.5 tablespoons water = 1 egg), use plant-based milk, and swap the butter for coconut oil or vegan butter.

Storing and Reheating Sweet Potato Casserole

1. Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
2. Freezing: Sweet potato casserole can be frozen for up to 3 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before freezing. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
3. Reheating: Warm the casserole in a 350°F oven for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through.

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