Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe with Pecan Topping

Creamy and comforting, this Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe with Pecan Topping is perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re celebrating a holiday or just enjoying a cozy family dinner, this dish delivers rich flavors and delightful textures. The sweet potatoes are blended into a smooth base, while the pecan topping adds a satisfying crunch. It’s easy to prepare and will soon become a favorite on your table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavors: The combination of sweet potatoes and pecans creates a mouthwatering balance of sweetness and nuttiness.
• Versatile Serving Options: Perfect as a side dish for holidays, potlucks, or weeknight dinners.
• Easy Preparation: With minimal prep time and straightforward steps, even novice cooks can master this recipe.
• Crowd-Pleaser: This casserole appeals to both kids and adults, making it a hit at any gathering.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prepare it in advance and simply bake it when you’re ready to serve.

Tools and Preparation

To create this Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe with Pecan Topping, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools that will help streamline the process for you.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Handheld or stand mixer
• Baking pan (9×13-inch)
• Medium bowl
• Silicone spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: A sturdy bowl is essential for combining ingredients effectively without spills.
• Handheld or stand mixer: This tool makes it easy to achieve a smooth sweet potato mix without much effort.
• Baking pan: The right size ensures even cooking and browning for your casserole.

Ingredients

To make this delicious casserole, gather the following ingredients:

For the Casserole Base

• 2 pounds (908g) sweet potatoes, peeled (about 5 small/medium)
• 1/3 cup (5 Tbsp; 71g) unsalted butter, melted
• 1/2 cup (100g) packed light or dark brown sugar (I prefer dark)
• 2 large eggs, beaten
• 1/2 cup (120ml) half-and-half or heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

For the Pecan Topping

• 1/3 cup (41g) all-purpose flour (spooned & leveled)
• 1/2 cup (100g) packed light or dark brown sugar (I prefer dark)
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/3 cup (5 Tbsp; 71g) unsalted butter, melted
• 1 and 2/3 cups (210g) pecan halves or chopped pecans
• optional: fresh rosemary or thyme, and flaky sea salt for garnish

How to Make Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe with Pecan Topping

Step 1: Cook the Sweet Potatoes

1. Place the sweet potatoes in a large pot or Dutch oven.
2. Cover them completely with water and bring to a boil.
3. Reduce heat to simmer for 20 minutes until tender.
4. Drain the water and allow the sweet potatoes to cool for about 15 minutes.

Step 2: Prepare Your Oven and Baking Dish

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C).
2. Grease your baking pan (9×13-inch) or similar-sized casserole dish.

Step 3: Make the Sweet Potato Mixture

1. In a large mixing bowl, mash the cooled sweet potatoes using a handheld or stand mixer until relatively smooth.
2. Add in the melted butter, brown sugar, beaten eggs, half-and-half, vanilla extract, and salt; mix until well combined.
3. Spoon/pour the mixture into your prepared baking pan.

Step 4: Create the Pecan Topping

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, brown sugar, and cinnamon.
2. Fold in melted butter and pecans using a silicone spatula until well combined.
3. Spoon this mixture evenly over the sweet potato base.

Step 5: Bake Your Casserole

1. Bake in preheated oven for 30–40 minutes or until golden brown on top.
2. Allow cooling for about 5 minutes after baking before garnishing with fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary along with a sprinkle of sea salt.
3. Serve warm and enjoy!

This Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe with Pecan Topping is sure to impress your guests with its delightful flavors and textures!

How to Serve Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe with Pecan Topping

Serving sweet potato casserole with pecan topping is a delightful experience that can elevate any meal. This dish pairs well with various flavors, making it versatile for different occasions.

Family Gatherings

• Buffet Style: Serve the casserole in a large dish for family-style dining, allowing guests to help themselves.
• Individual Servings: Scoop portions into ramekins for a personal touch at dinner parties.

Holiday Celebrations

• Thanksgiving Feast: This casserole is a classic side dish that complements turkey and stuffing beautifully.
• Christmas Dinner: Pair it with roast beef or lamb for a festive touch on your holiday table.

Casual Meals

• Weeknight Dinners: Serve alongside grilled chicken or turkey for a comforting weeknight meal.
• Potluck Contributions: Bring this dish to share at potlucks; its rich flavor will be a hit among friends and family.

How to Perfect Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe with Pecan Topping

Perfecting your sweet potato casserole can make all the difference in taste and texture. Here are some tips to enhance your dish.

• Bold Flavor Boost: Experiment by adding a sprinkle of nutmeg along with cinnamon for added warmth.
• Texture Variation: Leave small chunks of sweet potatoes in the mash for a heartier texture that contrasts nicely with the pecan topping.
• Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure eggs and dairy are at room temperature before mixing to achieve a smoother consistency.
• Avoid Overmixing: Mix just until combined to keep the mixture light and fluffy; overmixing can lead to a dense casserole.
• Use Fresh Pecans: Toasting pecans enhances their flavor and adds an extra crunch to the topping.
• Cool Before Serving: Letting the casserole cool slightly before serving allows flavors to meld beautifully while maintaining structure.

Best Side Dishes for Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe with Pecan Topping

Complement your sweet potato casserole with these delicious side dishes that balance flavors and textures.

1. Green Bean Almondine: Tender green beans sautéed with almonds add crunch and freshness, brightening up your plate.
2. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy garlic mashed potatoes provide a comforting backdrop that pairs well with the sweetness of the casserole.
3. Honey Glazed Carrots: These sweet carrots offer a vibrant color and natural sweetness that harmonizes beautifully.
4. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Crispy, caramelized Brussels sprouts introduce earthy flavors, enhancing your meal’s overall profile.
5. Cornbread Muffins: Light and fluffy cornbread muffins are perfect for soaking up delicious sauces from other dishes on your table.
6. Cranberry Sauce: A tart cranberry sauce brings brightness and contrast, balancing the richer flavors of the sweet potato casserole.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making your sweet potato casserole, avoiding common mistakes can make a big difference in the final result.

• Using undercooked sweet potatoes – Make sure to cook the sweet potatoes until they are fully tender. This ensures a smooth texture in your casserole.
• Not measuring ingredients accurately – Use proper measuring tools for both dry and wet ingredients. This helps maintain the right consistency and flavor.
• Skipping the cooling step – Allowing cooked sweet potatoes to cool before mixing helps prevent curdling of eggs in your mixture.
• Overmixing the potato mixture – Mix just until combined. Leaving some small chunks adds great texture to the casserole.
• Neglecting to grease the baking dish – Greasing your dish prevents sticking and makes serving easier. Don’t skip this important step!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover casserole in an airtight container.
• It can last up to 3–5 days when refrigerated.

Freezing Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe with Pecan Topping

• To freeze, wrap tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• The casserole can be frozen for up to 2 months for best quality.

Reheating Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe with Pecan Topping

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F (177°C) and bake for about 20 minutes or until heated through.
• Microwave – Heat in short bursts of 1-2 minutes, stirring in between until warm.
• Stovetop – Place on low heat and stir occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about our sweet potato casserole recipe.

What is a Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe with Pecan Topping?

A Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe with Pecan Topping is a creamy dish made from mashed sweet potatoes topped with a crunchy pecan crumble, perfect for any gathering.

Can I use other nuts instead of pecans?

Yes, feel free to substitute walnuts or almonds if you prefer a different nut flavor.

How do I make this recipe dairy-free?

You can replace butter with vegan butter and half-and-half with almond milk or coconut cream for a dairy-free option.

Can I prepare this Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe with Pecan Topping ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble it a day ahead and keep it covered in the fridge until you’re ready to bake.

What should I serve with the casserole?

This dish pairs well with roasted vegetables, grilled chicken, or turkey as part of your meal spread.

Final Thoughts

This Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe with Pecan Topping offers a delightful blend of flavors and textures that everyone will love. It’s perfect for holidays or family gatherings. Feel free to customize it by adding spices like nutmeg or incorporating other toppings like marshmallows for an even sweeter touch!