There's nothing quite like the comforting aroma of a sweet potato casserole baking in the oven, filling your home with the warmth of cinnamon and toasted pecans. This classic dish strikes the perfect balance between sweet and savory, making it a must-have for holiday dinners and family gatherings.

I first made this sweet potato casserole for a Thanksgiving potluck, and it quickly became the star of the table. Creamy, spiced sweet potatoes topped with a crunchy pecan streusel – it’s a recipe that feels like a hug in every bite. Let’s dive into what makes this dish so special!

Why You'll Love This Sweet Potato Casserole

Get ready to embrace a new holiday favorite with this sweet potato casserole recipe. It’s not just delicious – it’s a surefire way to impress friends and family.

First, it’s incredibly easy to make. The recipe uses simple steps and ingredients, yet the result is a dish that looks and tastes like it came from a gourmet kitchen. It’s perfect for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs.

This casserole is a great make-ahead option. You can prepare it the day before, refrigerate it, and bake it just before serving, saving you precious time on busy holiday mornings.

What sets this recipe apart is the irresistible topping. A combination of chopped pecans, brown sugar, and butter creates a caramelized, crunchy layer that perfectly complements the creamy sweet potatoes beneath.

Finally, this dish is versatile enough to serve as a side or dessert. Its sweet, spiced flavors pair beautifully with roasted turkey or ham, but it’s just as delightful enjoyed on its own with a dollop of whipped cream.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of this sweet potato casserole lies in its simple, wholesome ingredients. Each one plays an essential role in building layers of flavor and texture.

The sweet potatoes are the heart of this recipe. Opt for fresh, firm sweet potatoes with smooth skin. These will mash easily and provide the creamy base we’re aiming for.

Brown sugar adds a warm, molasses-like sweetness to both the filling and topping. If you prefer a slightly less sweet dish, feel free to reduce the amount slightly.

A touch of cinnamon and nutmeg brings out the natural sweetness of the potatoes while adding a cozy, spiced aroma. These spices make the casserole taste like autumn in every bite.

For the topping, pecans are essential. Their buttery crunch provides a satisfying contrast to the creamy filling. If pecans aren’t your favorite, walnuts work just as well.

Finally, unsalted butter helps bind the topping and creates that irresistible caramelized finish. For a dairy-free option, use coconut oil or a vegan butter substitute.

How To Make This Sweet Potato Casserole

Making this sweet potato casserole is a straightforward process that yields delicious results every time. Follow these steps, and you’ll have a show-stopping dish in no time.

Start by peeling and cubing your sweet potatoes. Place them in a large pot of water and bring to a boil. Cook until the potatoes are fork-tender, about 15-20 minutes, then drain and mash until smooth.

In a mixing bowl, combine the mashed sweet potatoes with brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and melted butter. For an extra creamy texture, stir in a splash of milk or heavy cream. Spread this mixture evenly into a greased baking dish.

To make the topping, mix chopped pecans, brown sugar, flour, and melted butter in a bowl until crumbly. Sprinkle the topping generously over the sweet potato mixture, covering it completely.

Bake the casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 25-30 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and bubbling. Let it cool slightly before serving.

This casserole takes about 1 hour total to prepare and bake. The result is a dish that’s rich, satisfying, and perfect for sharing.

Storage Options

Sweet potato casserole stores beautifully, making it an ideal dish for leftovers or advance preparation.

To store in the refrigerator, allow the casserole to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days. Reheat in a 350°F oven until warmed through.

If you’d like to freeze it, prepare the casserole but skip baking it. Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and bake as directed.

For reheating individual portions, the microwave is a quick option. Just heat on medium power in 30-second intervals until hot.

Variations and Substitutions

This sweet potato casserole is wonderfully adaptable to suit different tastes and dietary needs. Here are some creative ideas to try.

For a marshmallow twist, skip the pecan topping and cover the casserole with mini marshmallows instead. Bake until the marshmallows are puffed and golden.

Make it dairy-free by using almond or oat milk in the filling and coconut oil in the topping. The result is just as creamy and delicious.

For a lower-sugar version, substitute the brown sugar with a natural sweetener like maple syrup or honey. These options add a lovely depth of flavor.

Experiment with spices by adding a pinch of ginger or cloves to the filling. These warm spices complement the sweet potatoes beautifully.

If you’d like to add a savory element, mix in a bit of crumbled cooked bacon to the topping. The salty, smoky flavor pairs surprisingly well with the sweet base.

This sweet potato casserole is endlessly customizable. Don’t be afraid to get creative and make it your own – your guests will love it no matter what!