Sweet Potato Casserole - A Delicious Holiday Comfort

This sweet potato casserole is creamy, flavorful, and topped with a crunchy pecan streusel.

Ready in: 1 hour 15 minutes · Serves: 10 · Technique: Baking · Storage: Store in the fridge for up to 5 days.

Quick Answer

To make this sweet potato casserole, blend mashed sweet potatoes with butter, milk, and spices, then top with a crunchy pecan streusel and bake until golden.

As the holiday season approaches here in the heart of New York City, the streets are lit up with twinkling lights, and the air is filled with that signature crispness of autumn. This time of year brings the familiar aroma of Thanksgiving dinner wafting through homes, reminding us of cozy gatherings and cherished moments. One dish that has earned its rightful place on my holiday table is sweet potato casserole. Not only is it a true comfort food, but it also doubles as a pleasing complement to almost anything on your Thanksgiving spread. I've spent years perfecting my recipe to ensure it's creamy, flavorful, and features a crunchy pecan streusel that will have everyone asking for seconds.

A Cozy Holiday Dish

The sweet potato casserole is not just a side dish; it's an opportunity to indulge in the warmth and love that comes with sharing food. This dish embodies the essence of holiday gatherings, making it the perfect choice for Thanksgiving and Christmas feasts.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

• Versatile: A perfect sweet and savory balance that pairs well with turkey, ham, or as a standalone delight.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prepare it in advance and reheat it, saving time on the big day.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Its creamy filling and crunchy topping are loved by both kids and adults alike.
• Nutrient-Rich: Sweet potatoes are packed with vitamins A and C, offering a nutritious element to your holiday spread.
• Easily Customizable: Add your favorite spices or toppings to make it uniquely yours!

Ingredients

To make my ultimate sweet potato casserole, you'll need the following ingredients:

For the Sweet Potato Filling

• 4 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
• ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
• ½ cup whole milk (or heavy cream for extra richness)
• ⅓ cup packed brown sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ½ teaspoon nutmeg
• Pinch of salt

For the Pecan Topping

• 1 cup pecans, chopped
• ½ cup brown sugar, packed
• ¼ cup all-purpose flour
• ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

How to Make Sweet Potato Casserole (Step-by-Step)

Creating this delicious sweet potato casserole is easier than you think!

Step 1: Prepare the Sweet Potatoes

Start by boiling the sweet potatoes in a large pot of salted water until fork-tender, which should take about 15-20 minutes. Drain the sweet potatoes and return them to the pot.

Step 2: Make the Filling

While the sweet potatoes are still warm, mash them using a potato masher until smooth. Then add melted butter, whole milk, brown sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Mix until everything is well combined and creamy.

Step 3: Prepare the Pecan Topping

In a separate bowl, combine chopped pecans, brown sugar, flour, melted butter, and cinnamon. Mix until the pecans are coated with the sugary mixture.

Step 4: Assemble and Bake

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Pour the sweet potato mixture into a greased 9x13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle the pecan topping evenly over the top. Bake for about 35-40 minutes or until the topping is golden brown and the filling is bubbling.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcooking the sweet potatoes can lead to a watery consistency in your casserole.
• Forgetting to grease the baking dish can cause sticking and mess during serving.
• Not mixing the filling ingredients well enough can lead to uneven flavors and textures.

Tips and Tricks for Success

• Use Fresh Sweet Potatoes: Look for firm, unblemished potatoes to ensure the best flavor.
• Let it Cool: Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before serving; this helps the filling set properly.
• Experiment with Flavors: Add a splash of bourbon for a deeper flavor profile if desired.

Variations

• Substitute half of the sweet potatoes with pumpkin for a unique twist.
• For a healthier option, use Greek yogurt instead of butter or cream.
• Top with mini marshmallows in place of the pecans if you prefer a sweeter dish.

How to Serve

• Serve alongside roasted turkey or glazed ham.
• Make it a part of your brunch spread during holiday gatherings.
• Pair with a simple green salad for a balanced meal.
• You might also enjoy serving it with my Simple Garlic Roasted Green Beans.

Make Ahead and Storage

• Make Ahead: Prepare the sweet potato filling up to 2 days in advance and refrigerate. Top just before baking.
• Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.
• Reheating: Warm individual portions in the microwave or reheat the entire casserole in the oven at 350°F until heated through.
• Freezing: You can freeze the unbaked casserole for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking.

Recipe Notes / What I Learned

What I learned from testing this recipe is that a touch of nutmeg can elevate the flavor profile in unexpected ways. Each bite is like a warm hug on a plate, perfect for those chilly New York evenings.

Yield and Serving Size

Yield: 10 servings · Serving Size: 1 cup

Nutrition Snapshot

Estimated Nutrition Per Serving: ~250 calories · 4g protein · 36g carbs · 11g fat

FAQs

Can I make this sweet potato casserole gluten-free?
Yes! Simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.

Is it possible to use canned sweet potatoes?
While fresh sweet potatoes give the best flavor and texture, canned sweet potatoes can work in a pinch. Just be sure to drain them well to avoid excess moisture.

Can I use a different nut for the topping?
Absolutely! Walnuts or almonds can be used in place of pecans for a different nutty flavor.

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This festive sweet potato casserole is sure to become a staple at your holiday gatherings, offering everyone a taste of comfort and joy. Happy cooking!