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This comforting sweet potato casserole blends the deep flavor of baked sweet potatoes with just the right amount of sweetness and crunch. With a buttery pecan topping, it brings warmth to holiday gatherings and weeknight dinners alike, and its simple prep makes it a go-to favorite in my house all season long.
When I first made this casserole for a Thanksgiving potluck, it disappeared before anything else on the table. Now my family insists we bring two pans every year.
Gather Your Ingredients
- Sweet potatoes: Provide earthy sweetness and a velvety consistency. Pick ones that feel heavy for their size and show vibrant color without bruises.
- Brown sugar: Adds caramel notes to both the filling and topping. Choose the darkest, softest variety for best flavor.
- Butter: Creates richness and depth, melted for mixing ease and a luscious mouthfeel.
- Vanilla extract: Boosts the flavor and gives a cozy bakery aroma. Use real vanilla if possible for the purest taste.
- Salt: Heightens natural sweetness and balances the sugar. Use kosher or fine sea salt to better control seasoning.
- Flour: Thickens the topping so it gets a bit crisp as it bakes. Unbleached all-purpose flour is best here.
- Pecans: Turn the topping into something truly special. Look for fresh pecan halves or pieces with a toasty aroma and glossy brown skin.
How to Make It
- Prep and Parboil Sweet Potatoes:
- Peel sweet potatoes and cut them into cubes about one inch each. Add cubes to a large pot and pour in enough water to cover by an inch. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce to simmer. Boil for fifteen minutes or until a fork easily slides through. Drain well.
- Make the Sweet Potato Base:
- Transfer drained sweet potatoes into a large mixing bowl. Add one half cup packed brown sugar, one third cup melted butter, one teaspoon vanilla extract, and one half teaspoon salt. Mash until mostly smooth. Spread into a greased nine by thirteen baking dish.
- Mix and Scatter the Topping:
- In a small bowl, combine one quarter cup melted butter, one third cup brown sugar, two tablespoons flour, and one and one fourth cups chopped pecans. Mix until it forms a sticky crumbly topping. Scatter over the mashed sweet potatoes.
- Bake to Perfection:
- Place casserole in a preheated three hundred fifty degree oven. Bake for thirty to forty five minutes or until the topping is golden brown and bubbling and the edges begin to caramelize. Let cool slightly before serving.
There is something magical about the aroma of toasted pecans and melting butter wafting through the house. I always sneak a spoonful of the topping before it hits the oven and it reminds me of baking with my grandmother.
Flavor Boosters
Try swapping walnuts for pecans for a more robust flavor. Use coconut oil instead of butter for a dairy free version, or try maple syrup in place of brown sugar. Add orange zest or ginger for brightness, and swirl in cranberries or dried fruit for festive occasions.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole is perfect alongside roast turkey, ham, or a simple green salad. To fancy it up, sprinkle with extra toasted pecans or cinnamon and nutmeg. Smaller portions work as a brunch side or sweet treat in the afternoon.
Creative Twists
Blend different sweet potato varieties for extra color, or adapt with seasonal flavors like orange or purple potatoes. For freezer meals, assemble up to baking, freeze, then thaw and bake as needed. Sweet potato casserole remains a classic centerpiece in Southern holiday traditions and will delight at any gathering.
Every Thanksgiving this dish is always the first to disappear, and watching kids come back for seconds never fails to make me smile.
Common Questions About This Recipe
- → How do I ensure the sweet potatoes are creamy?
Boil the sweet potatoes until fork-tender, then mash thoroughly to eliminate lumps. Mixing in melted butter helps achieve a smooth, creamy texture.
- → Can I make this casserole in advance?
Yes, assemble and refrigerate the unbaked casserole for up to 24 hours. Add the topping just before baking for best results.
- → Is it possible to substitute pecans?
You can replace pecans with walnuts or omit nuts entirely for a nut-free version, though the nutty crunch enhances the dish.
- → What main dishes pair well?
This casserole complements roasted turkey, chicken, ham, and even vegetarian mains, making it versatile for various holiday spreads.
- → How should leftovers be stored?
Cool leftovers completely, then cover and store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.