If you’re on the hunt for a comforting, crowd-pleasing dish that feels like a warm hug from the inside out, then this Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecan Topping Recipe is about to become your new favorite. Creamy mashed sweet potatoes infused with cozy spices and vanilla get under a perfectly crumbly, buttery pecan topping that offers just the right amount of crunch. It’s the kind of recipe that shines at holiday dinners but is equally delightful any time you want a touch of sweet, nutty decadence on your plate. Trust me, once you make this, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without it!

Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecan Topping Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe calls for simple, wholesome ingredients that each bring their own magic to the dish. From the naturally sweet and vibrant sweet potatoes to the rich butter and fragrant spices, every component harmonizes to create a balanced and irresistible casserole.

Sweet potatoes (3 pounds peeled and cubed): The heart of the dish, offering creamy texture and natural sweetness.
Unsalted butter (1/2 cup melted and 1/2 cup softened): Adds richness and helps bind the topping while enhancing flavor.
Granulated sugar (1/2 cup): Sweetens the filling without overpowering the natural potato taste.
Brown sugar (1/4 cup packed for filling, 1 cup for topping): Brings deep caramel notes and moisture to both the base and topping.
Eggs (2 large, lightly beaten): Provide structure for a smooth, fluffy casserole.
Whole milk (1/3 cup): Keeps the filling creamy and tender.
Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Enhances sweetness with a warm, aromatic touch.
Ground cinnamon (1 teaspoon): Infuses the dish with classic cozy spice flavor.
Ground nutmeg (1/2 teaspoon): Adds subtle warmth and depth.
Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Balances sweetness and amplifies flavors.
All-purpose flour (1/2 cup): Essential for creating the crumbly topping texture.
Chopped pecans (1 cup): The star crunch topping that provides nutty contrast to the sweet potatoes.

How to Make Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecan Topping Recipe

Step 1: Cook and Mash the Sweet Potatoes

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F and greasing a 9×13-inch baking dish, so it’s ready to go once your filling is mixed. Boil the peeled and cubed sweet potatoes in a large pot of water for 15 to 20 minutes until they’re incredibly tender. Drain everything thoroughly, then mash the potatoes until they reach a smooth, creamy consistency that will be the base of your casserole.

Step 2: Mix the Filling

While the sweet potatoes are still warm, stir in the melted butter, granulated sugar, brown sugar, lightly beaten eggs, milk, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Mixing these ingredients now ensures the filling is rich, sweet, and perfectly spiced. Make sure everything is blended thoroughly to keep the texture even and luscious.

Step 3: Prepare the Pecan Topping

In a separate bowl, combine the brown sugar, all-purpose flour, softened butter, and chopped pecans. Use your hands or a fork to mix it all together until it forms a crumbly mixture. This topping will bake up golden and crunchy, giving the casserole an irresistible finishing touch.

Step 4: Assemble and Bake

Spread the sweet potato mixture evenly into your prepared baking dish. Then, sprinkle the pecan topping evenly over the surface. Bake it in your preheated oven for 30 to 35 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the topping is nice and golden, and the casserole is bubbling and heated through.

Step 5: Cool and Serve

Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. This pause allows the topping to set and flavors to meld, making every spoonful a perfect balance of sweet, creamy, and crunchy goodness.

How to Serve Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecan Topping Recipe

Garnishes

To elevate your sweet potato casserole even further, consider adding a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley or a light dusting of powdered cinnamon on top just before serving. These simple touches add a pop of color and hint at the warm spices inside, making it a feast for both the eyes and the palate.

Side Dishes

This casserole pairs beautifully with roasted turkey, glazed ham, or your favorite holiday meats. It also complements fresh green vegetables like steamed broccoli or sautéed green beans, providing a lovely contrast in texture and flavor to round out your meal.

Creative Ways to Present

If you want to impress your guests, try serving individual portions in small ramekins topped with extra chopped pecans for crunch. You can also dollop some whipped cream or a smear of maple butter on each serving to add a silky, indulgent layer of flavor that will have everyone coming back for seconds.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover sweet potato casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for 3 to 4 days and still taste delicious when reheated, making it a perfect make-ahead option for busy days.

Freezing

You can freeze this casserole either before or after baking. Just cover it tightly with foil and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best results. The pecan topping will still retain much of its delightful crunch after reheating.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers in a 350°F oven for about 20 minutes until warmed through. For portions, microwave on medium power in 1-2 minute intervals, stirring gently between rounds to ensure even heating without drying it out.

FAQs

Can I use canned sweet potatoes instead of fresh?

While fresh sweet potatoes provide the best texture and flavor for this recipe, you can use canned sweet potatoes in a pinch. Just be sure they are well-drained and mash them thoroughly before adding the other ingredients.

Can I substitute pecans with another nut?

Absolutely! Walnuts or almonds work nicely as alternatives and offer their own unique crunch and flavor. Just chop them roughly to mimic the texture of the pecan topping.

Is it possible to make this casserole vegan?

To make this dish vegan, replace the butter with a plant-based alternative, use almond or oat milk instead of whole milk, and swap the eggs with flax eggs or another vegan binder.

Can I make this dessert ahead of time?

Yes, the Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecan Topping Recipe can be assembled a day ahead and stored in the fridge. Just bake it when you’re ready to serve, adding an extra 5-10 minutes if baking from cold.

What if I want a marshmallow topping instead of pecans?

Simply skip the pecan topping and add mini marshmallows during the last 10 minutes of baking. This creates a sweet, gooey finish that’s a nostalgic favorite for many.

Final Thoughts

This Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecan Topping Recipe is a heartwarming dish that brings both comfort and elegance to your table. Whether it’s holiday time or just a cozy night in, this casserole will fill your kitchen with irresistible aromas and serve as a delicious reminder of how good simple ingredients can be, especially when combined with a little love. Don’t wait to try it—you’re going to want to make this one a permanent part of your recipe rotation!