If you’re searching for the ultimate comforting side that always gets rave reviews at family gatherings, this Easy Sweet Potato Casserole is about to become your go-to. Imagine creamy mashed sweet potatoes, a hint of vanilla, and a buttery, pecan-studded topping that lightly crisps in the oven. Whether you’re prepping for Thanksgiving or just want to bring a little warmth to a weeknight meal, this casserole bursts with flavor, color, and cozy vibes in every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this Easy Sweet Potato Casserole is chosen for both simplicity and maximum flavor payoff. You don’t need a sprawling pantry to achieve something truly crave-worthy; each addition helps build the dish’s signature texture and crowd-pleasing sweetness.
- Mashed sweet potatoes: These create the velvety, gently sweet base—roasting or boiling them until tender brings out their natural sugars.
- Granulated sugar: Just enough to enhance sweetness without overpowering the subtle flavor of the sweet potatoes.
- Large eggs: They hold the casserole together, giving just the right amount of lift and creaminess.
- Whole milk: Adds lusciousness and ensures every bite feels rich and smooth.
- Unsalted butter (melted): Infuses richness—and melted butter blends seamlessly into the mash for that unmistakable homestyle taste.
- Vanilla extract: A splash of vanilla adds warmth and a delicious aroma that makes the casserole irresistible.
- Salt: Don’t skip it! A little bit brings out all the natural flavors and balances the sweetness.
- Brown sugar (for the topping): Delivers a deep, molasses-like sweetness and a gorgeous golden color when baked.
- All-purpose flour (for the topping): Helps create that classic crumble topping texture everyone loves.
- Chopped pecans (for the topping): Add a nutty crunch that contrasts perfectly with the creamy base.
- Unsalted butter, softened (for the topping): Binds the topping together and turns golden as it bakes.
How to Make Easy Sweet Potato Casserole
Step 1: Prep Your Baking Dish and Sweet Potatoes
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly greasing a 9×9-inch baking dish. If you haven’t already, peel and cook about 3 large sweet potatoes—either by boiling or roasting—then mash until completely smooth. You’re aiming for four generous cups to give your Easy Sweet Potato Casserole that luscious foundation.
Step 2: Mix Up the Sweet Potato Base
In a large bowl, combine your warm mashed sweet potatoes with the granulated sugar, eggs, whole milk, melted butter, vanilla extract, and salt. Mix it all together until the mixture is creamy, well-blended, and beautifully orange from those sweet potatoes. This is where it starts to smell incredible and where the transformation begins!
Step 3: Spread and Smooth the Casserole Layer
Pour the sweet potato mixture into your prepared baking dish and smooth it out with a spatula, creating an even layer. This ensures every portion bakes up with that perfect custardy texture, making every spoonful of Easy Sweet Potato Casserole absolutely satisfying.
Step 4: Mix and Sprinkle the Topping
In a smaller bowl, get your hands (or a fork) into the brown sugar, flour, and chopped pecans. Cut in the softened butter until everything turns crumbly, with small clusters forming. Sprinkle this topping evenly across the sweet potato layer so each bite delivers both creamy and crunchy delight.
Step 5: Bake to Golden Perfection
Slide your casserole into the oven and bake for 30–35 minutes. The topping should turn golden brown and the casserole will be set yet still slightly soft in the middle. Once done, let it cool for 5–10 minutes so the flavors meld and the texture settles before you dive in.
How to Serve Easy Sweet Potato Casserole
Garnishes
For a classic finish, simply scatter a few extra chopped pecans over the top after baking. If you’d like to turn up the fun factor, add a handful of mini marshmallows during the last 10 minutes in the oven—they’ll melt into a toasty, gooey layer that always dazzles guests. A sprinkle of flaky salt or a dash of cinnamon right before serving adds another delicious dimension.
Side Dishes
This Easy Sweet Potato Casserole shines alongside your favorite holiday main courses—think roast turkey, glazed ham, or even a hearty vegetarian loaf. Pair it with crisp green beans, tangy cranberry sauce, or savory cornbread to round out the meal and make every element pop on your plate.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to impress, spoon the casserole into individual ramekins for a dinner party, or pipe the sweet potato base into swirls before topping and baking. For a rustic, family-style vibe, serve straight from the baking dish and let guests scoop their own portions. No matter how you present it, this dish always steals the show!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, transfer them to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days. The flavors deepen overnight, and the texture stays luscious—making that second helping almost as good as the first!
Freezing
You can easily freeze Easy Sweet Potato Casserole after baking. Let it cool completely, then wrap the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil or transfer portions to freezer-safe containers. It will keep well for up to 2 months; just thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheating
To reheat, cover the casserole with foil and warm in a 350°F oven for 20–25 minutes, or until heated through. For single servings, a quick spin in the microwave works too, but baking helps restore the crunchy topping. If adding marshmallows, broil for a minute at the end to get them perfectly toasted.
FAQs
Can I use canned sweet potatoes instead of fresh?
Absolutely! Using canned sweet potatoes cuts prep time dramatically. Just drain them well and mash until smooth before mixing with the other ingredients—you might want to reduce the sugar slightly, as canned varieties are sometimes sweetened.
What if I don’t have pecans for the topping?
No worries—walnuts or sliced almonds are great substitutes, or you can simply omit the nuts for a nut-free version. The crumble topping will still bake up beautifully crisp and delicious.
Can I make this casserole dairy free?
Yes! Swap out the milk for a plant-based alternative like almond or oat milk, and use your favorite dairy-free butter. The flavor and creamy texture will still shine through in every bite.
Is Easy Sweet Potato Casserole suitable for vegetarians?
Definitely. This recipe is vegetarian as written, making it a wonderful and inclusive dish for family meals and gatherings with mixed dietary preferences.
Can I assemble this casserole ahead of time?
One of the best things about Easy Sweet Potato Casserole is how easy it is to prepare ahead. Assemble the casserole (hold off on the topping until just before baking if you like) and refrigerate overnight. Bake when ready to serve for fresh-from-the-oven flavor and texture.
Final Thoughts
If you’ve never tried making Easy Sweet Potato Casserole at home, you’re in for a treat. It’s every bit as comforting and indulgent as you imagine, yet so simple to whip up. I hope this recipe brings extra warmth and cheer to your table—dig in and enjoy every creamy, crunchy bite!
Print
Easy Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Easy Sweet Potato Casserole is a classic holiday side dish that’s perfect for Thanksgiving or any festive gathering. Creamy mashed sweet potatoes topped with a buttery pecan crumble, it’s a delicious and comforting dish that will have everyone asking for more.
Ingredients
Mashed Sweet Potatoes:
- 4 cups mashed sweet potatoes (from about 3 large sweet potatoes)
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Topping:
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/3 cup chopped pecans
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×9-inch baking dish.
- Prepare Sweet Potato Mixture: In a large bowl, mix mashed sweet potatoes, sugar, eggs, milk, melted butter, vanilla, and salt until smooth. Spread into the baking dish.
- Make the Topping: In a small bowl, combine brown sugar, flour, and chopped pecans. Cut in softened butter until crumbly. Sprinkle over the sweet potato mixture.
- Bake: Bake for 30–35 minutes until golden and set. Let cool before serving.
Notes
- Add mini marshmallows for extra sweetness during the last 10 minutes of baking.
- Prepare ahead by assembling the casserole and refrigerating before baking.
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