If there’s one dish that embodies the warmth and nostalgia of the holidays, it’s Southern Sweet Potato Casserole. Creamy, sweet, and topped with a golden, crunchy pecan crumble, this classic side dish is a must-have for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any special gathering.
Whether you’re serving a big holiday meal or simply want to indulge in some comfort food, this recipe is as crowd-pleasing as it is simple to prepare. Let’s explore how to create this irresistible casserole that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- A Holiday Staple: Perfect for family gatherings, this casserole is as much a tradition as it is a side dish.
- Balanced Flavors: The sweetness of the mashed sweet potatoes pairs beautifully with the buttery, nutty topping.
- Easy to Make Ahead: Save time on busy holidays by prepping it the day before.
- Versatile: Works just as well as a side dish or dessert thanks to its sweet and savory flavor profile.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to bring this dish to life:
For the Sweet Potato Base:
- 4 cups sweet potatoes, cooked and mashed – Boiled or roasted for maximum flavor.
- 1 cup brown sugar – Sweetens the base and enhances the natural sweetness of the potatoes.
- ⅓ cup half and half – Adds creaminess to the mixture.
- ⅓ cup butter, softened – Creates a rich, smooth texture.
- 1 egg – Binds the ingredients together and adds structure.
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract – Enhances the sweetness with a warm, aromatic note.
- 1 ½ teaspoons salt – Balances the sweetness and elevates the flavor.
For the Pecan Topping:
- 1 cup brown sugar – Sweetens the crunchy topping.
- ⅓ cup all-purpose flour – Helps bind the topping ingredients.
- 1 ⅓ cups pecan pieces – Adds a buttery crunch to the casserole.
- ½ cup butter, melted – Ensures the topping bakes to a crispy, golden perfection.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking and ensure easy serving.
2. Prepare the Sweet Potato Mixture
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed sweet potatoes, brown sugar, half and half, softened butter, egg, vanilla extract, and salt.
- Use a hand mixer or stand mixer to beat the mixture until it’s smooth and creamy. This ensures the casserole has a light, fluffy texture.
3. Spread the Mixture
Transfer the sweet potato mixture to the prepared baking dish. Use a spatula to spread it out evenly, creating a flat surface for the topping.
4. Make the Pecan Topping
- In a smaller bowl, combine the brown sugar, flour, pecan pieces, and melted butter.
- Stir until the mixture becomes crumbly, ensuring the pecans are evenly coated with the buttery, sugary goodness.
5. Add the Topping
Sprinkle the pecan topping evenly over the sweet potato base. Make sure every bite will get a delicious layer of crunchy sweetness.
6. Bake the Casserole
Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 35 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the sweet potato base is warmed through.
7. Cool Before Serving
Allow the casserole to cool for about 20 minutes before serving. This helps the dish set and makes it easier to portion out.
Tips for Success
- Cook Sweet Potatoes Ahead: Boil or roast your sweet potatoes a day in advance. Let them cool, peel, and mash them. This saves time and makes preparation smoother.
- Half and Half Alternatives: You can substitute with whole milk for a lighter option or heavy cream for extra richness.
- Add Warm Spices: For a cozy twist, mix a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg into the sweet potato base or the pecan topping.
- Make Ahead: Assemble the casserole up to the baking step, then cover and refrigerate overnight. When ready to serve, bake it straight from the fridge at 350°F for 40-45 minutes.
Variations
- Marshmallow Topping: Swap the pecan topping with mini marshmallows for a gooey, sweet finish. Add them during the last 10 minutes of baking to avoid overbrowning.
- Nut-Free Version: Replace pecans with rolled oats or crushed graham crackers for a crunchy topping without nuts.
- Vegan-Friendly: Use plant-based butter, non-dairy milk, and a flax egg (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal + 3 tablespoons water) to make this dish vegan.
Serving Suggestions
This Southern Sweet Potato Casserole is versatile and pairs beautifully with many main dishes and sides:
- Holiday Favorites: Serve alongside roasted turkey, glazed ham, or prime rib for a classic holiday spread.
- Vegetarian Meals: Pair with roasted Brussels sprouts, green bean casserole, or a simple arugula salad.
- As a Dessert: Thanks to its sweet flavor, this casserole can double as a dessert. Serve it with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use canned sweet potatoes?
Yes! Drain and mash canned sweet potatoes before mixing them with the other base ingredients.
2. How long can leftovers be stored?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.
3. Can I freeze sweet potato casserole?
Absolutely. Assemble the casserole (without baking), cover tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to serve, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed.
4. How do I prevent the topping from burning?
If the pecan topping is browning too quickly, cover the dish loosely with aluminum foil during the last 10 minutes of baking.
5. Can I make individual servings?
Yes! Divide the sweet potato mixture into greased ramekins and top with the pecan crumble. Bake for about 25 minutes or until golden.
Nutrition Information
- Serving Size: 1/12 of the recipe
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fat: 12g
- Protein: 2g
Final Thoughts
This Southern Sweet Potato Casserole is the perfect blend of creamy, sweet, and crunchy, making it a staple at holiday feasts and family gatherings. The silky mashed sweet potatoes combined with the buttery pecan topping create a comforting dish that’s both nostalgic and indulgent.
Whether you’re serving it as a side or sneaking a slice for dessert, this casserole is sure to become a tradition in your household. Give it a try this holiday season—you’ll wonder how you ever celebrated without it!