If you’re searching for the ultimate cozy, crowd-pleasing side dish that steals the show at every gathering, Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecan Streusel Topping absolutely delivers. Imagine silky, naturally sweet mashed sweet potatoes blanketed by a buttery, crunchy pecan topping—the kind that makes friends and family sneak back for seconds. Whether for Thanksgiving, a casual potluck, or a homey Sunday dinner, this casserole brings comforting flavor, a pop of color, and irresistible texture to your table, making it an instant classic in your recipe collection.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecan Streusel Topping comes from a handful of everyday ingredients, each playing a key part in taste, texture, and that show-stopping finish. Simple, yes, but there’s no sacrificing the depth of flavor you crave in this beloved side.
- Mashed Sweet Potatoes: Create the creamy, naturally sweet foundation for this casserole—be sure to use thoroughly cooked potatoes for the smoothest base.
- Granulated Sugar: Adds just enough sweetness to amplify the potatoes’ flavor without overpowering it.
- Eggs: Help bind everything together and keep the casserole fluffy.
- Unsalted Butter (Melted): Richness alert! Melted butter brings lush texture and pure decadence.
- Milk: A touch of milk lightens the filling, making every bite creamy and tender.
- Vanilla Extract: A splash for warmth and a subtle, aromatic sweetness that enhances the overall flavor.
- Salt: Just a little bit, to balance all the sweet elements and highlight the natural flavors.
- Brown Sugar (Topping): For deep, caramel-like notes in the addictive pecan streusel.
- All-Purpose Flour: Gives the streusel its signature crumbly texture.
- Unsalted Butter (Softened): Ensures the pecan topping is rich and forms perfect golden crumbles.
- Chopped Pecans: The finishing touch—nutty, toasty crunch that sends this casserole over the top.
How to Make Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecan Streusel Topping
Step 1: Prep and Mash the Sweet Potatoes
Start by peeling and boiling about four large sweet potatoes until they’re fork-tender. Drain well, then mash until silky smooth. The smoother your mash, the more luxurious your Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecan Streusel Topping will turn out.
Step 2: Mix Up the Filling
In a large bowl, combine your warm mashed sweet potatoes with granulated sugar, eggs, melted butter, milk, vanilla extract, and salt. Stir until everything is incorporated and the mixture is creamy and unified—this will be the soul-satisfying base of your casserole.
Step 3: Assemble the Casserole Base
Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish so nothing sticks. Pour in your sweet potato mixture and spread it smoothly with a spatula, making sure to create an even layer for perfect baking.
Step 4: Make the Pecan Streusel Topping
In a separate medium bowl, bring together brown sugar, flour, softened butter, and chopped pecans. Mix with a fork (or your fingers!) until it forms a moist, chunky crumb. This crunchy layer is what makes Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecan Streusel Topping so irresistible.
Step 5: Top and Bake
Sprinkle the pecan streusel evenly over your sweet potato base. Slide the dish into a preheated 350°F oven and bake for 30–35 minutes, until the topping is golden and fragrant, and the casserole is bubbling at the edges. Give it 5–10 minutes to cool and set before serving for the best texture and flavor.
How to Serve Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecan Streusel Topping
Garnishes
Right before serving, a sprinkle of extra chopped pecans or even a small handful of mini marshmallows (briefly broiled for a toasted effect) turns this casserole from familiar to festive. For a charming touch, a pinch of ground cinnamon or nutmeg adds inviting warmth and extra appeal.
Side Dishes
This casserole pairs beautifully with classic holiday fare—think roast turkey, glazed ham, or savory stuffing. Add a crisp, vibrant green salad or some braised greens to balance the sweetness and complete your feast.
Creative Ways to Present
Try baking individual portions in ramekins for a charming, personalized presentation, or spoon the casserole into a rustic serving bowl and top with a drizzle of maple syrup for extra flair. For potlucks, simply bake it in a disposable foil pan for easy transport and serving.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecan Streusel Topping keeps like a dream! Simply cover leftovers tightly with foil or plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to four days. The flavors actually deepen over time, making your second helpings even more tempting.
Freezing
If you’re planning ahead for a holiday meal, you can freeze the unbaked casserole (without the streusel) in an airtight container for up to one month. Thaw overnight in the fridge, then add the pecan topping and bake fresh before serving for optimal crunch and flavor.
Reheating
To reheat, cover the casserole with foil and warm in a 350°F oven until hot throughout, about 15–20 minutes. Remove the foil for the last few minutes to let the topping regain its irresistible crispiness. Individual portions can also be microwaved for quick leftovers!
FAQs
Can I make Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecan Streusel Topping ahead of time?
Absolutely! The sweet potato mixture can be prepared a day in advance and stored in the fridge. When you’re ready to bake, just add the topping and pop it in the oven.
How can I make this recipe a bit healthier?
For a lighter take, try reducing the sugar in the filling or swapping in coconut sugar. Using low-fat milk and cutting back a little on the butter will also lighten things up without sacrificing flavor.
Is it possible to make this casserole dairy-free?
Yes, you can substitute your favorite non-dairy milk (like almond or oat) and use vegan butter to create a delicious dairy-free version of Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecan Streusel Topping.
What else can I add to the filling?
Spice it up by mixing in a teaspoon of ground cinnamon or nutmeg with the filling for a warm, aromatic twist. Some folks love a splash of orange juice or zest for a little tangy brightness!
Can I use canned sweet potatoes?
Canned sweet potatoes will work in a pinch; just be sure to drain them well and mash thoroughly for the best texture. You might want to reduce the sugar slightly since canned sweet potatoes can be sweeter than fresh.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend enough that you give Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecan Streusel Topping a spot on your table. The blend of creamy sweet potatoes and crunchy, nutty topping never fails to impress, and it’s surprisingly simple to make. Trust me—your guests will be asking for seconds, and the recipe!
