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There is something irresistibly cozy and festive about the Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecan Topping Recipe that makes it a staple for gatherings and family dinners. This dish perfectly balances silky, sweet mashed sweet potatoes with a crunchy, buttery pecan topping that adds texture and a toasty, nutty flavor. Whether you’re serving it for a holiday feast or just want a comforting side that feels special, this casserole brings warmth, color, and tons of flavor to the table every single time.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting this Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecan Topping Recipe just right starts with simple ingredients that come together beautifully. Each component adds a unique element—from the natural sweetness and creaminess of the potatoes to the rich, crunchy topping that makes your taste buds dance.
- 3 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed: The base of the dish, full of natural sweetness and creamy texture when mashed.
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted: Adds richness and helps create a smooth, luscious mash.
- 1/3 cup brown sugar: Infuses the sweet potatoes with a deep caramel sweetness, balancing the spices perfectly.
- 1/4 cup milk (dairy or plant-based): Keeps the mixture moist and silky, enhancing creaminess.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract: Introduces a warm floral note that complements the earthiness of sweet potatoes.
- 1/2 tsp cinnamon: Brings cozy spiced warmth that pairs wonderfully with sweet flavors.
- 1/4 tsp nutmeg: A pinch of nutmeg adds subtle earthiness and depth.
- Pinch of salt: Enhances all the flavors and balances the sweetness.
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans: The star of the topping, providing crunch and a delightful nutty flavor.
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour): Helps create the crisp, crumbly topping texture.
- 1/4 cup brown sugar: Sweetens the topping for that perfect caramelized finish.
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted: Binds the topping ingredients together with a buttery richness.
- Pinch of salt: Balances the sweetness in the topping and enhances pecan flavor.
How to Make Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecan Topping Recipe
Step 1: Prep and Cook the Sweet Potatoes
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) and greasing a 9×13-inch baking dish. Boiling the peeled and cubed sweet potatoes in salted water until fork-tender—about 15 to 20 minutes—is key for that perfect soft texture you’ll mash up later. Once cooked, make sure to drain them well and allow them to cool just enough so they’re comfortable to handle.
Step 2: Mash the Sweet Potatoes and Add Flavor
In a large bowl, mash your sweet potatoes until smooth. Then mix in the melted butter, brown sugar, milk, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and a pinch of salt. Each ingredient blends to create a creamy, flavorful filling that’s both sweet and warmly spiced, forming the heart of this casserole.
Step 3: Spread the Sweet Potato Mixture
Evenly spread this rich, creamy sweet potato mixture into your prepared baking dish. This layer is the cozy base that will soak up the nutty topping and bake into sheer perfection.
Step 4: Prepare the Pecan Topping
In a small bowl, combine the chopped pecans, flour, brown sugar, melted butter, and a pinch of salt. Mix them until crumbly and evenly distributed. This mixture is the magic crunch that contrasts the softness beneath it.
Step 5: Assemble and Bake
Sprinkle the pecan topping evenly across the sweet potato base, covering every inch with that irresistible crumbly goodness. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes until the topping is golden brown and the casserole is warmed through. Letting it cool slightly before serving lets the flavors settle and makes it easier to serve.
How to Serve Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecan Topping Recipe
Garnishes
To add a fresh, vibrant touch, consider garnishing the casserole with a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley or a few whole toasted pecans for extra visual appeal and texture contrast. A light drizzle of maple syrup can also amp up the sweetness and add a beautiful shine.
Side Dishes
This Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecan Topping Recipe pairs beautifully with savory mains like roasted turkey or honey-glazed ham. Green beans sautéed with garlic or a crisp autumn salad can cut through the richness and brighten the whole meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try serving individual portions in small ramekins with a scoop of crème fraîche or whipped cream on top. You can also layer the casserole in a trifle dish with whipped cream and toasted pecans for a stunning holiday centerpiece that everyone will rave about.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecan Topping Recipe keeps beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This makes it a great dish to make ahead for busy holiday schedules or weeknight dinners.
Freezing
If you want to enjoy this casserole later, you can freeze it either baked or unbaked. Just cover it tightly with foil and store for up to 2 months. When you’re ready, thaw overnight in the fridge before baking or reheating.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for 15-20 minutes until warmed through and the topping regains its delightful crunch. Microwaving is fine too but might result in a softer topping.
FAQs
Can I use canned sweet potatoes for this recipe?
While fresh sweet potatoes provide the best texture and flavor, you can use canned sweet potatoes in a pinch. Just be sure to drain them well and adjust the sweetness to your taste since canned versions can vary in sugar content.
Is it possible to make this dish vegan?
Absolutely! Simply swap the butter for a plant-based alternative and use your favorite dairy-free milk. The rest of the ingredients are naturally vegan.
How can I make the pecan topping extra crunchy?
To get an extra crunchy topping, toast the pecans lightly before mixing them with the other topping ingredients. This releases their oils and deepens their nutty flavor.
Can I prepare this casserole ahead and refrigerate before baking?
Yes, you can assemble the whole casserole, cover it, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Just remember to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking from cold.
What can I substitute for pecans if I have allergies?
Walnuts or almonds work well as a substitute for pecans in the topping, offering a similar texture and flavor profile. Alternatively, pumpkin seeds can provide a nice crunch if nuts aren’t an option.
Final Thoughts
This Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecan Topping Recipe is truly one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug on a plate. It’s comforting, flavorful, and when you serve it, everyone will feel like they’re getting a little bit of homemade love. Don’t hesitate to give it a try—you might just create a new family favorite that everyone asks for year after year!
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Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecan Topping Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecan Topping is a delightful baked dish combining creamy mashed sweet potatoes with a crunchy, buttery pecan crumble. Perfect as a comforting side for holiday dinners or special occasions, this recipe balances warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg with the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes and a crunchy nutty topping.
Ingredients
Sweet Potato Base
- 3 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/3 cup brown sugar (or coconut sugar)
- 1/4 cup milk (dairy or plant-based)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 tsp cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp nutmeg
- Pinch of salt
Pecan Topping
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour)
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Cook Sweet Potatoes: Boil the peeled and cubed sweet potatoes in salted water for 15-20 minutes, or until they are fork-tender. Drain well and allow them to cool slightly.
- Mash Sweet Potatoes: In a large bowl, mash the cooked sweet potatoes until smooth. Stir in the melted butter, brown sugar, milk, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and a pinch of salt until the mixture is creamy and well combined.
- Prepare Baking Dish: Spread the sweet potato mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish, creating a smooth layer.
- Make Pecan Topping: In a small bowl, combine the chopped pecans, all-purpose flour, brown sugar, melted butter, and a pinch of salt. Mix until the mixture forms a crumbly texture.
- Add Topping: Sprinkle the pecan crumble evenly over the sweet potato layer.
- Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the casserole is heated through.
- Cool and Serve: Remove from the oven and allow the casserole to cool slightly before serving for the best texture and flavor.
Notes
- You can substitute brown sugar with coconut sugar for a slightly different flavor and a healthier alternative.
- Using plant-based milk makes this dish dairy-free and suitable for lactose-intolerant guests.
- For a gluten-free version, replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend in the topping.
- Sweet potatoes can be roasted instead of boiled if preferred, adjusting the cooking time accordingly.
- Toast pecans lightly before mixing for an extra depth of flavor in the topping.
