Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecan Crumble

Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecan Crumble is a beloved holiday classic that brings warmth and comfort to the table. Creamy, mashed sweet potatoes are topped with a buttery, brown sugar pecan crumble, offering a satisfying balance of smooth and crunchy textures. This side dish is a staple for Thanksgiving and other festive gatherings, but it’s simple enough to enjoy year-round.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Combines sweet and savory flavors beautifully
• Crunchy pecan topping contrasts the creamy sweet potatoes
• Perfect make-ahead dish for busy holidays
• Easy to adapt with different toppings or dietary needs
• A guaranteed crowd-pleaser at family dinners and celebrations

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Sweet Potato Filling:

• 4 cups mashed sweet potatoes (from about 4–5 medium sweet potatoes)
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• ½ cup milk
• ¼ cup butter, melted
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
• Pinch of salt

For the Pecan Crumble Topping:

• ½ cup all-purpose flour
• ⅓ cup light brown sugar
• ¼ cup butter, softened
• ¾ cup chopped pecans

Directions

this recipe

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Cook and mash the sweet potatoes if not already prepared. Boil peeled, chopped sweet potatoes until fork tender (about 20 minutes), then drain and mash.
3. Make the filling: In a large bowl, combine mashed sweet potatoes, sugar, eggs, milk, melted butter, vanilla, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Mix until smooth and well blended.
4. Transfer to baking dish: Pour the sweet potato mixture into the prepared dish and smooth the top.
5. Make the pecan crumble: In a small bowl, mix flour and brown sugar. Cut in the softened butter using a fork until the mixture forms coarse crumbs. Stir in chopped pecans.
6. Top the casserole: Sprinkle the pecan crumble evenly over the sweet potato mixture.
7. Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until the topping is golden and the filling is set.
8. Cool slightly and serve warm as a side dish.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 8–10
• Prep Time: 25 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour

Variations

• Add marshmallows: Sprinkle mini marshmallows on top in the last 10 minutes of baking for a gooey twist.
• Dairy-Free: Use plant-based milk and vegan butter alternatives.
• Gluten-Free: Substitute the flour with a gluten-free blend for the topping.
• Spiced up: Add a pinch of cloves or ginger to the filling for more warmth.
• Less sweet: Cut back on the sugar in the filling or topping if preferred.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freeze: Freeze the fully assembled, unbaked casserole or baked leftovers for up to 2 months.
• Reheat: Warm in a 350°F oven until heated through, about 15–20 minutes. If frozen, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

FAQs

Can I make sweet potato casserole ahead of time?

Yes, prepare the casserole (without baking) up to 2 days in advance and refrigerate. Add the topping just before baking.

Can I use canned sweet potatoes?

Yes, but drain them well and reduce added sugar as canned varieties are often sweetened.

How do I keep the pecan topping crunchy?

Bake uncovered and avoid overmixing the crumble. Use cold butter for a crumblier texture.

What can I use instead of pecans?

Walnuts or sliced almonds are great alternatives.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

Yes—use flax eggs, non-dairy milk, and vegan butter.

Is this dish a dessert or a side?

It’s typically served as a side dish, though its sweetness allows it to double as a dessert.

How do I know when the casserole is done?

The topping should be golden brown, and the filling should be slightly puffed and set.

Can I microwave leftovers?

Yes, reheat individual servings in the microwave for 1–2 minutes until warmed through.

What can I serve with sweet potato casserole?

It pairs perfectly with roasted turkey, ham, stuffing, and green beans.

Can I halve the recipe?

Yes, use a smaller baking dish and reduce bake time slightly (start checking at 25 minutes).

Conclusion

Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecan Crumble is a cozy, comforting dish that deserves a permanent place at your holiday table. With its creamy texture and crispy topping, it’s both nostalgic and indulgent. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or preparing a family meal, this casserole delivers every time—warm, sweet, and truly irresistible.

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