Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe
Introduction
This Sweet Potato Casserole is a comforting classic that combines creamy mashed sweet potatoes with a crunchy pecan topping. Perfect for holiday dinners or any cozy meal, it’s both sweet and satisfying.

Ingredients
- 4 cups peeled, cubed sweet potatoes
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- ½ cup white sugar
- ½ cup milk
- 4 tablespoons butter, softened
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup brown sugar
- ⅓ cup all-purpose flour
- 3 tablespoons butter, softened
- ½ cup chopped pecans
Instructions
- Step 1: Boil the peeled and cubed sweet potatoes in boiling water until tender, about 15-20 minutes. Drain well.
- Step 2: Mash the sweet potatoes and mix in the beaten eggs, white sugar, milk, 4 tablespoons softened butter, vanilla extract, and salt until smooth and well combined.
- Step 3: Pour the sweet potato mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it evenly.
- Step 4: In a separate bowl, combine the brown sugar, all-purpose flour, 3 tablespoons softened butter, and chopped pecans to make the topping. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the sweet potato base.
- Step 5: Bake the casserole at 325°F (163°C) for 30 minutes, until the topping is golden and crisp. Let it cool slightly before serving.
Tips & Variations
- For extra richness, add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the sweet potato mixture.
- Use maple syrup instead of white sugar for a deeper sweetness.
- Swap pecans for walnuts if preferred, or add mini marshmallows on top during the last 5 minutes of baking for a classic touch.
Storage
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently in the oven at 300°F until warmed through to maintain the topping’s crispness.
How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole a day ahead and keep it covered in the refrigerator. Bake it just before serving, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time if chilled.
Can I use canned sweet potatoes?
While fresh sweet potatoes give the best texture and flavor, you can use canned sweet potatoes in a pinch. Drain well and adjust the liquid in the recipe as needed since canned potatoes are softer.
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Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
Description
This classic Sweet Potato Casserole is a comforting and delicious side dish perfect for holiday meals or any special occasion. Creamy mashed sweet potatoes are combined with eggs, sugar, milk, butter, vanilla, and salt, then topped with a crunchy pecan streusel and baked to golden perfection.
Ingredients
Sweet Potato Base
- 4 cups peeled, cubed sweet potatoes
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- ½ cup white sugar
- ½ cup milk
- 4 tablespoons butter, softened
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon salt
Topping
- ½ cup brown sugar
- ⅓ cup all-purpose flour
- 3 tablespoons butter, softened
- ½ cup chopped pecans
Instructions
- Boil Sweet Potatoes: Place peeled and cubed sweet potatoes in a large pot of boiling water and cook until tender when pierced with a fork, about 15-20 minutes. Drain well to remove excess water.
- Mash and Mix: Transfer the drained sweet potatoes to a large bowl and mash until smooth. Add the beaten eggs, white sugar, milk, softened butter, vanilla extract, and salt. Mix thoroughly to combine all ingredients evenly into a creamy mixture.
- Prepare Baking Dish: Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray to prevent sticking. Pour the sweet potato mixture into the dish and spread evenly.
- Make Topping: In a separate bowl, combine the brown sugar, all-purpose flour, softened butter, and chopped pecans. Mix with a fork or pastry cutter until the mixture becomes crumbly and coarse.
- Top and Bake: Evenly sprinkle the prepared topping over the sweet potato base. Bake the casserole in a preheated oven at 325°F (163°C) for 30 minutes or until the topping is golden brown and crisp.
- Cool and Serve: Remove from oven and allow the casserole to cool slightly for about 5-10 minutes before serving to let it set and for easier portioning.
Notes
- You can prepare the sweet potatoes a day ahead and refrigerate for convenience.
- For a richer flavor, substitute the milk with evaporated milk or heavy cream.
- For a nut-free version, omit the pecans and increase the topping ingredients or substitute with rolled oats.
- Make sure to drain the sweet potatoes well to avoid a watery casserole.
- This dish can be reheated in the oven at 300°F (150°C) covered with foil to maintain moisture.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Sweet Potato Casserole, Holiday Side Dish, Mashed Sweet Potatoes, Pecan Topping, Comfort Food

