Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe

Sweet potato casserole recipe is a timeless holiday classic that brings warmth, comfort, and a touch of sweetness to any meal. Whether you’re preparing for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or simply craving a hearty side dish, this sweet potato casserole is sure to become a family favorite. With a velvety base of mashed sweet potatoes topped with a buttery pecan streusel, this dish balances savory and sweet in the most delicious way. In just a few simple steps, you’ll have a dish that’s rich in flavor, easy to prepare, and always a crowd-pleaser.

Why You’ll Love This Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe

This sweet potato casserole stands out for its rich texture and the perfect blend of flavors. The mashed sweet potatoes are smooth and naturally sweet, complemented by the warm notes of vanilla and a hint of salt. The streusel topping adds a delightful crunch with buttery pecans and caramel-like brown sugar. It’s a dish that feels indulgent but is incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy holiday cooking. Plus, you can prepare it in advance, saving precious time on the big day.

Ingredients

For the Mashed Sweet Potatoes:

• 4 large sweet potatoes
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 large eggs
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted

For the Streusel Topping:

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

Step-by-Step: How to Make Sweet Potato Casserole

1. Cook the Sweet Potatoes: Begin by cooking the sweet potatoes until soft. You can bake them at 400°F for one hour, microwave them (pierced with a fork) for about 15 minutes depending on size, or peel and boil them for 30 minutes.
2. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 375°F. Lightly spray a 2-quart baking dish with nonstick spray and set aside.
3. Prepare the Mash: In a large bowl, combine the cooked sweet potatoes, granulated sugar, salt, vanilla extract, eggs, and melted butter. Use an electric mixer to beat the mixture for 4 to 5 minutes until it’s fluffy and smooth.
4. Bake the Base: Pour the sweet potato mixture into the prepared dish and bake for 25 minutes.
5. Make the Streusel: While the casserole is baking, mix together the brown sugar, flour, chopped pecans, and melted butter in a small bowl. Stir with a fork until crumbly.
6. Add the Topping: Remove the casserole from the oven, sprinkle the streusel evenly on top, and return it to the oven for another 10 to 15 minutes until the topping is golden brown.
7. Serve: Serve immediately or cover with foil and serve within 30 minutes.

Helpful Tips

• For a smoother mash, ensure the sweet potatoes are fully cooked and soft before mashing.
• Use softened butter instead of melted if you prefer a chunkier, more traditional crumble topping.
• An electric mixer creates a lighter, fluffier texture, but you can mash by hand for a denser consistency.
• Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the mash for extra warmth and spice.

Substitutions And Variations

• Nut-Free: Omit the pecans for a nut-free version. You can substitute with sunflower seeds or just leave them out.
• Lower Sugar: Reduce the granulated sugar and brown sugar by half for a less sweet dish that still retains flavor.
• Marshmallow Topping: Swap the streusel for mini marshmallows for a classic twist.
• Dairy-Free: Use plant-based butter alternatives to make the dish dairy-free.
• Egg-Free: Replace eggs with flax eggs (1 tbsp flaxseed + 3 tbsp water per egg) for a vegan version.

Storage Instructions

• Refrigerate: Keep any leftovers in an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to four days.
• Freeze: Freeze the casserole (either fully baked or just the base) for up to 2 months. Wrap tightly in foil and store in a freezer-safe container.
• Reheat: Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in a 350°F oven until warmed through. Add fresh topping if desired before reheating.

Nutritional Information

Estimated per serving (based on 8 servings):

• Calories: 420
• Fat: 22g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Carbohydrates: 54g
• Sugar: 29g
• Fiber: 4g
• Protein: 4g
• Sodium: 360mg

Serving Suggestions

• Serve alongside roasted turkey, ham, or chicken as a hearty side.
• Pair with a crisp green salad to balance the richness of the casserole.
• Add a drizzle of maple syrup or a dollop of whipped cream for a dessert-like touch.
• Perfect for potlucks and holiday dinners as a comforting, crowd-pleasing dish.

Frequently Asked Questions About Sweet Potato Casserole

Can I make sweet potato casserole ahead of time? Absolutely! You can fully bake the base and refrigerate it overnight. Add the topping and reheat before serving.

How can I tell when it’s done baking? The streusel should be lightly browned, and the sweet potato base should be hot and slightly puffed.

Can I use canned sweet potatoes? Yes, but drain them well and reduce the added sugar, as canned versions are often pre-sweetened.

Is this dish suitable for vegetarians? Yes, as long as no marshmallows with gelatin are used.

What size dish should I use? A 2-quart baking dish works best for this recipe, but a standard 9×9 inch pan is a great alternative.

Conclusion

Thank you for stopping by and sharing in the joy of this sweet potato casserole recipe. I truly love how this dish brings warmth and comfort to the table with every creamy bite. It’s one of those recipes that’s easy enough to whip up but flavorful enough to make a lasting impression. Whether you’re preparing it for a holiday feast or a cozy family dinner, I hope it brings smiles all around. Wishing you happy cooking adventures and heartfelt thanks for being a valued part of our food-loving community!

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