Sweet Potato Casserole

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Sweet Potato Casserole is a classic comfort dish often enjoyed during the holiday season, but it’s delicious enough to serve year-round. This dish combines creamy mashed sweet potatoes with warm spices, topped with a buttery pecan streusel or fluffy marshmallows. The blend of sweet and savory makes it a family favorite that pleases both kids and adults alike.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

sweet potatobrown sugargranulated sugarunsalted buttermilkvanilla extracteggsground cinnamonnutmegpecansall-purpose flourmini marshmallows (optional for topping)

directions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a baking dish.

Peel, cube, and boil the sweet potatoes until tender, about 15-20 minutes. Drain and mash them until smooth.

In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed sweet potatoes, brown sugar, granulated sugar, melted butter, milk, vanilla extract, eggs, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Mix until well combined.

Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and smooth the top.

For the pecan topping, mix chopped pecans, flour, brown sugar, and melted butter until crumbly. Sprinkle evenly over the sweet potato layer.

If using marshmallows, sprinkle them on top instead of the pecan topping.

Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden and the casserole is heated through.

Let it cool slightly before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 8 servings.Preparation time: 20 minutesCooking time: 30 minutesTotal time: 50 minutes

Variations

Add a splash of orange juice for a citrus twist.

Mix in shredded coconut for extra texture and flavor.

Use maple syrup instead of granulated sugar for a deeper sweetness.

Top with both pecans and marshmallows for a fun combo.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.Reheat individual portions in the microwave or reheat the whole casserole in the oven at 300°F (150°C) until warmed through.

FAQs

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, assemble it up to a day in advance and refrigerate. Add the topping just before baking.

Can I use canned sweet potatoes?

Yes, but drain and mash them well before using.

Is this dish very sweet?

It has a dessert-like sweetness but can be adjusted by reducing the sugar.

Can I make it dairy-free?

Yes, use plant-based butter and milk alternatives.

Can I freeze sweet potato casserole?

Yes, freeze without the topping for best results. Add topping and bake after thawing.

Can I use walnuts instead of pecans?

Absolutely, walnuts are a great substitute.

Do I need to peel the sweet potatoes?

Yes, peeling ensures a smooth texture.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, just use a larger baking dish and increase baking time slightly.

Is this gluten-free?

Use a gluten-free flour in the topping to make it gluten-free.

What spices go well with this?

Cinnamon, nutmeg, and a pinch of cloves or allspice work beautifully.

Conclusion

Sweet Potato Casserole is the ultimate comfort dish with its creamy, spiced base and rich topping options. Whether you’re hosting a holiday dinner or just craving something cozy, this casserole is sure to impress. It’s a timeless classic that brings warmth and sweetness to every bite.

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