Sweet Potato Casserole – A Sweet & Comforting Holiday Classic

Sweet potato casserole is the ultimate holiday side dish, combining the natural sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes with a rich, buttery topping and crunchy pecans. This dish is perfect for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any cozy family dinner. Creamy, sweet, and slightly spiced, it’s a crowd-pleaser every time.

Ingredients

For the Sweet Potato Filling:

  • 4 cups mashed sweet potatoes (about 4–5 medium sweet potatoes)

  • 1/2 cup (120 ml) unsalted butter, softened

  • 1/3 cup (65 g) granulated sugar

  • 1/4 cup (60 ml) milk

  • 2 large eggs

  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg

  • Pinch of salt

For the Topping:

  • 1/2 cup (100 g) brown sugar

  • 1/3 cup (40 g) all-purpose flour

  • 1/3 cup (75 g) unsalted butter, melted

  • 1 cup (100 g) chopped pecans

  • Optional: mini marshmallows for a sweeter topping

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven
    Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or casserole dish.

  2. Prepare Sweet Potatoes
    Peel, chop, and boil sweet potatoes until tender (about 15–20 minutes). Drain and mash until smooth.

  3. Mix the Filling
    In a large bowl, combine mashed sweet potatoes, softened butter, sugar, milk, eggs, vanilla, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Mix until creamy and smooth.

  4. Transfer to Baking Dish
    Spread the sweet potato mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish.

  5. Prepare the Topping
    In a separate bowl, combine brown sugar, flour, melted butter, and chopped pecans. Mix until crumbly. Sprinkle evenly over the sweet potato mixture. If using marshmallows, sprinkle them on top as well.

  6. Bake
    Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, until the topping is golden and crispy, and the casserole is heated through.

  7. Serve
    Allow to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy a sweet, creamy, and crunchy holiday treat!

Tips for the Perfect Sweet Potato Casserole

  • Sweet Potatoes: Use fresh, firm sweet potatoes for best texture.

  • Make Ahead: Prepare the filling a day ahead and refrigerate; bake right before serving.

  • Topping Options: Mix half pecans and half mini marshmallows for a fun twist.

  • Spice it Up: Add a pinch of ginger or allspice to enhance the flavor.

Serving Suggestions

  • Perfect alongside roasted turkey, ham, or chicken for holiday dinners.

  • Pairs well with cranberry sauce, stuffing, or green bean casserole.

  • Works beautifully as a dessert-style side thanks to its sweet flavor