Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecan Topping is a beloved holiday dish that combines the natural sweetness of baked sweet potatoes with the crunchy richness of a caramelized pecan topping. This recipe brings together creamy and crispy textures, enhanced by warm spices and a hint of vanilla, making it a staple for Thanksgiving and family gatherings. With fiber, vitamins, and minerals from sweet potatoes and healthy fats from pecans, this casserole is as nutritious as it is indulgent. Simple ingredients and easy preparation make it a comforting yet nourishing addition to any meal.
Why This Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecan Topping Will Be Your New Favorite
- Rich in Nutrients and Antioxidants
Sweet potatoes are packed with fiber, beta-carotene, and essential vitamins, offering health benefits alongside delicious flavor. - Balancing Flavors and Textures
The creamy, spiced sweet potato base pairs beautifully with the caramelized pecan topping, creating a perfect blend of textures and flavors in every bite. - Flexible for Different Diets
Easily adapted to various dietary needs, this casserole suits gluten-free, dairy-free, and low-sugar diets. - A Holiday Favorite That’s Easy to Prepare
With simple steps and classic ingredients, this casserole is quick to put together, making it ideal for special occasions with minimal effort.
Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecan Topping Recipe
This sweet potato casserole combines a smooth, creamy base with a crunchy, caramelized pecan topping, making it an irresistible addition to any festive meal.
Ingredients:
For the Casserole
- 5 cups mashed, baked sweet potatoes
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 8 tbsp melted butter
- 1½ tsp vanilla extract
- ½ cup milk (use almond milk for dairy-free)
- 2 large eggs
For the Pecan Crumble Topping
- 1 cup packed brown sugar
- ½ cup all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour)
- 1 cup chopped pecans
- 4 tbsp softened butter
Instructions:
- Prepare the Sweet Potatoes
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake or boil sweet potatoes until tender. Let cool slightly, then peel and mash until smooth. - Mix the Casserole Base
In a large bowl, combine mashed sweet potatoes, granulated sugar, melted butter, vanilla extract, milk, and eggs, stirring until smooth. Pour mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. - Make the Pecan Crumble Topping
In a medium bowl, combine brown sugar, flour, chopped pecans, and softened butter. Mix until crumbly. - Assemble and Bake
Sprinkle pecan crumble topping evenly over the sweet potato mixture. Bake for 30 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the casserole is set in the center.
Cooking Tip: For a fluffier texture, whip the sweet potatoes before mixing with other ingredients.
Serving and Storage Tips
Serving Suggestions
Serve this casserole warm as a side dish to roasted turkey, chicken, or pork. Pair with roasted Brussels sprouts or green beans for a balanced meal.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave, or warm the entire casserole in the oven at 300°F (150°C). To freeze, wrap tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and store for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Variations of Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecan Topping
- Gluten-Free Sweet Potato Casserole
Use a gluten-free flour blend in the pecan topping to make it suitable for those with gluten sensitivities. - Low-Sugar Sweet Potato Casserole
Substitute granulated sugar with stevia or monk fruit, and use a sugar-free brown sugar alternative for the topping. - Dairy-Free Sweet Potato Casserole
Replace butter with coconut oil and use almond or coconut milk for a dairy-free version with a rich, creamy flavor. - Spiced Sweet Potato Casserole
Add a teaspoon of cinnamon and a pinch of nutmeg or ginger to the sweet potato base for extra warmth and depth.
FAQs
- Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare the casserole and topping separately, then assemble and refrigerate up to one day in advance. Bake as directed when ready to serve. - How do I make the casserole less sweet?
Reduce granulated sugar to ½ cup and use less brown sugar in the topping, relying on the natural sweetness of the sweet potatoes. - Can I use canned sweet potatoes?
Yes, but fresh sweet potatoes yield the best flavor. If using canned, drain well and reduce the sugar slightly. - How do I make the topping extra crunchy?
Toast the pecans in a dry skillet before mixing into the topping for added crunch and a roasted flavor. - What can I use instead of pecans?
Walnuts are a great alternative. For a nut-free option, try pumpkin or sunflower seeds. - Is it possible to make this casserole vegan?
Yes! Use almond or coconut milk, replace butter with coconut oil, and substitute eggs with flax eggs (1 tbsp ground flaxseed + 3 tbsp water per egg). - How do I keep the casserole from becoming watery?
Fully bake or boil sweet potatoes and drain excess liquid before mashing to prevent a watery consistency.
Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecan Topping is a holiday classic that adds warmth, nutrition, and sweetness to any meal. With vibrant flavors and easy customization, this casserole is a must-have on any holiday menu. Enjoy the creamy, spiced sweet potatoes with a crunchy pecan topping, bringing family and friends together over a delicious, comforting side dish!