The Best Sweet Potato Casserole With Butter Pecan Crumble Topping Recipe

There’s something magical about the smell of sweet potatoes baking in the oven, filling your kitchen with warmth and coziness. Sweet Potato Casserole with Butter Pecan Crumble Topping is a show-stopping dish that combines creamy, spiced sweet potatoes with a rich, buttery topping that’s as indulgent as dessert.

This recipe has been a staple at our holiday table for years. I discovered it during a potluck and knew it had to become a family tradition. Now, it’s the first thing everyone requests when we start planning our holiday meals. Let’s dive into what makes this casserole so unforgettable.

Why You’ll Love This Sweet Potato Casserole with Butter Pecan Crumble Topping

Get ready to make a dish that will steal the spotlight at your next gathering. This Sweet Potato Casserole is everything you want in a holiday side – decadent, flavorful, and irresistibly comforting.

First, it’s the perfect balance of sweet and savory. The creamy mashed sweet potatoes are lightly spiced with cinnamon and nutmeg, while the buttery pecan crumble adds a hint of caramelized crunch.

It’s also surprisingly easy to prepare. With just a few simple steps, you’ll have a casserole that looks and tastes like it came straight out of a gourmet kitchen.

This recipe is a crowd-pleaser. Even those who usually skip sweet potatoes will be back for seconds (and maybe thirds). It’s the ultimate dish to bring everyone together at the table.

Lastly, the Butter Pecan Crumble is a game-changer. Forget marshmallows – this topping adds a sophisticated twist that elevates the dish to a whole new level.

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of this casserole lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient works together to create a dish that’s as easy to make as it is delicious.

Sweet potatoes are the star of the show. Choose large, firm sweet potatoes with smooth skin for the best results. They’ll roast up perfectly tender and full of natural sweetness.

Brown sugar and cinnamon add warmth and depth to the filling, giving it that signature holiday flavor. A touch of nutmeg rounds out the spices without overwhelming the dish.

Butter is essential for both the filling and the topping. Use high-quality unsalted butter for a rich, creamy texture and flavor.

Pecans are the heart of the crumble topping. Look for fresh, whole pecans and chop them just before using to ensure maximum flavor and crunch.

A splash of vanilla extract ties everything together with a subtle, sweet aroma that enhances the natural sweetness of the potatoes.

You’ll need a large mixing bowl, a baking dish, and a food processor or fork to make the crumble topping.

How To Make This Sweet Potato Casserole with Butter Pecan Crumble Topping

Making this casserole is as comforting as eating it. Follow these simple steps to create a dish that’s sure to impress.

Start by roasting the sweet potatoes. Preheat your oven to 400°F and bake them for about 45 minutes, or until they’re soft and easily pierced with a fork. Once cooled, peel off the skins and mash the flesh until smooth.

In a large bowl, combine the mashed sweet potatoes with brown sugar, melted butter, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Mix well until the ingredients are fully incorporated, and then spread the mixture evenly into a greased baking dish.

Prepare the Butter Pecan Crumble topping by mixing chopped pecans, brown sugar, flour, and melted butter in a small bowl. Use a fork to combine until the mixture is crumbly and evenly coated.

Sprinkle the crumble topping generously over the sweet potato mixture. Make sure every inch is covered for maximum crunch and flavor.

Bake the casserole at 350°F for 25-30 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and bubbling. Let it cool slightly before serving – the smell will be hard to resist!

This dish takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes from start to finish, but most of that time is hands-off. The result? A rich, flavorful casserole with a crisp, buttery topping that will have everyone coming back for more.

Storage Options

If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, this casserole stores beautifully. Transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to four days.

For longer storage, freeze individual portions in freezer-safe containers for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw the casserole overnight in the fridge and reheat in the oven until warmed through.

Reheating is a breeze. Cover the casserole with foil to prevent the topping from over-browning, and bake at 350°F until heated through. You can also microwave individual servings for a quick snack.

Variations and Substitutions

This recipe is wonderfully versatile, so feel free to get creative with it.

For a vegan version, substitute the butter with vegan margarine or coconut oil and use a dairy-free milk alternative in the filling.

If you’re a fan of marshmallows, you can add a layer on top of the pecan crumble during the last 5 minutes of baking. They’ll melt into gooey perfection.

Swap the pecans for walnuts if that’s what you have on hand, or try adding shredded coconut to the crumble for a tropical twist.

For an extra kick of flavor, mix a tablespoon of bourbon or maple syrup into the sweet potato filling.

Lastly, if you prefer a smoother texture, use a food processor to blend the sweet potato mixture until it’s completely velvety.

This Sweet Potato Casserole with Butter Pecan Crumble Topping is a holiday classic for a reason. It’s easy to make, endlessly adaptable, and always a hit with family and friends. Give it a try this season – I guarantee it’ll be love at first bite!

Print