Sweet Potato Casserole brings cozy comfort to any holiday spread with a creamy mash of sweet potatoes and toasted pecan topping. Beaten eggs and warm cinnamon blend into the velvety base, while a quick bake gives it a golden, crunchy crust. With just an hour from start to finish, this easy side dish is sure to become a centerpiece at your festive table.
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Table of Contents
Ingredients for Sweet Potato Casserole
Gathering your ingredients for this sweet potato casserole is the first step toward creating a memorable baked sweet potato holiday side dish that everyone will love. Here’s everything you’ll need for that perfect blend of creamy, cinnamon spiced mashed sweet potatoes and a buttery pecan streusel topping.
For the Filling
- Sweet Potatoes – Use large ones for the best texture. Peeled and cubed is the way to go.
- Unsalted Butter – Softened so it blends seamlessly into the sweet potatoes.
- Granulated Sugar – Just the right amount of sweetness to balance the earthy potatoes.
- Milk – Room temperature works best to keep the filling smooth.
- Eggs – Beaten eggs add structure and richness to the casserole.
- Vanilla Extract – A little goes a long way to enhance the flavor.
- Ground Cinnamon – This warm spice is a must for the classic taste.
- Ground Nutmeg – Just a pinch adds a lovely depth of flavor.
- Salt – A little is essential to bring everything together.
For the Topping
- Light Brown Sugar – Packed for that caramel-like sweetness.
- All-Purpose Flour – Helps create the perfect crumble texture.
- Unsalted Butter – Cold and cubed is key for a flaky, buttery topping.
- Pecans – Chopped for a delightful crunch and nutty flavor.
Cook Time for Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe
One of the things I adore about this Thanksgiving sweet potato casserole is how it fits perfectly into a busy holiday cooking schedule. It’s surprisingly quick to put together, letting you focus on the rest of your feast.
| Step | Time |
|---|---|
| Prep Time | 30 minutes |
| Cook Time | 30 minutes |
| Total Time | 1 hour |
For more inspiration on planning your holiday menu, check out our guide to healthy Thanksgiving sides that are both delicious and nutritious.
How to Make Baked Sweet Potato Casserole
Making this holiday side dish is a joyful process. Follow these steps to create that creamy baked sweet potato pudding with its signature brown sugar pecan crumble topping.
Step 1: Prep and Cook the Sweet Potatoes
Preheat your oven to 375°F and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Place the peeled and cubed sweet potatoes in a large pot, cover them with water, and bring to a boil. Cook for 15–20 minutes until they are fork-tender.
Step 2: Create the Creamy Filling
Drain the potatoes well and let them cool just enough to handle. Transfer them to a large bowl and mash until perfectly smooth. Add the softened butter, granulated sugar, milk, beaten eggs, vanilla, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Mix until everything is fully combined into a creamy, dreamy filling.
Step 3: Make the Irresistible Topping
In a separate bowl, combine the brown sugar, flour, cold cubed butter, and chopped pecans. Use a fork or your fingers to mix until the texture is delightfully crumbly.
Step 4: Assemble and Bake
Spread the sweet potato mixture evenly into your prepared dish. Sprinkle the pecan topping over it in a beautiful, uniform layer. Bake for 25–30 minutes until the top is golden and the edges are bubbly.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Let the casserole cool for about 10 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to settle and makes it easier to scoop out those perfect portions.
Pro Tips & Tasty Tweaks
Over the years, I’ve learned a few tricks that can take your sweet potato casserole from great to unforgettable. Here are my favorite ways to personalize this classic dish.
For a flavor twist, try swapping the pecans in the topping for walnuts or adding a handful of dried cranberries for a tart contrast to the sweetness. If you’re looking for a diet-friendly version, you can successfully reduce the sugar by a quarter without sacrificing much flavor, or use a sugar substitute that bakes well.
To ensure the best texture for your filling, make sure you drain the cooked potatoes thoroughly. Any extra water can make the final dish a bit soupy. For a super smooth consistency, I sometimes use a hand mixer instead of a masher.
Leftovers store beautifully! Cover and refrigerate for up to 4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or warm the whole dish in the oven at 350°F until heated through. The topping might soften, but it’s still delicious. For another fantastic way to enjoy sweet potatoes, try my maple pecan roasted sweet potatoes. And if you love pecans as much as I do, you must try this incredible pecan pie cheesecake for your dessert table.
Sweet Potato Casserole
Ingredients
- 4 large sweet potatoes (about 3 pounds), peeled and cubed
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup milk at room temperature
- 2 large eggs beaten
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1 cup light brown sugar packed
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter cold and cubed
- 1 cup chopped pecans
Equipment
- oven
- baking dish
- saucepan
Method
- Preheat the oven to 375°F and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- In a large pot, cover the sweet potatoes with water and bring to a boil. Cook for 15–20 minutes, or until tender when pierced with a fork. Drain well and let cool slightly.
- Mash the sweet potatoes in a large bowl until smooth. Add the softened butter, granulated sugar, milk, eggs, vanilla, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Mix until fully combined and creamy. Spread the mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish.
- In a separate bowl, combine the brown sugar, flour, cold cubed butter, and pecans. Use a fork or your fingers to mix until crumbly and well incorporated.
- Sprinkle the pecan topping evenly over the sweet potato mixture.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25–30 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the casserole is bubbling around the edges.
- Remove from the oven and let cool for 10 minutes before serving.
Nutrition
Private Notes
Tried this recipe?
Let us know how it was!Nutrition and Health Benefits
I always feel good serving this Sweet Potato Casserole because it’s not just delicious—it’s packed with nutrients that make it a wholesome addition to your holiday table. From Vitamin A to fiber, sweet potatoes bring so much natural goodness that you can savor every bite with joy.
Sweet potatoes are a powerhouse of beta-carotene, which our bodies convert into Vitamin A, great for eye health and immunity. They also offer a good dose of dietary fiber, helping to keep you satisfied and support healthy digestion. When paired with protein-rich pecans and energy-providing natural sugars, this dish becomes a balanced, nourishing choice.
For those watching their intake, you can easily lighten up this holiday side dish by reducing added sugars or using alternatives—more on that in the next section. If you’re curious about the fascinating history and varieties of this versatile veggie, the North Carolina Sweet Potato Commission offers wonderful insights. And if you love nutritious sweet potato ideas, try my roasted sweet potato kale quinoa salad for a weekday lunch or my homemade sweet potato chips as a crunchy snack.
A Lighter Version of Sweet Potato Casserole
I know many of us are looking for ways to enjoy our favorite foods while keeping things a bit healthier, especially during the indulgent holiday season. This Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe adapts beautifully to lighter tweaks without losing any of that cozy, comforting flavor we all love.
For the filling, you can cut the granulated sugar in half or replace it with pure maple syrup or coconut sugar for a deeper, less refined sweetness. Using almond milk or oat milk instead of whole milk keeps it just as creamy but dairy-free. In the buttery pecan streusel topping recipe, try reducing the brown sugar slightly and mixing in old-fashioned oats for extra fiber and crunch.
One of my favorite simple swaps is to roast the sweet potatoes instead of boiling them—it deepens their natural sweetness so you need less added sugar. If you’re exploring more wholesome holiday ideas, take a peek at our roundup of healthy Thanksgiving desserts or this comforting sweet potato chicken soup for a lighter meal.
Thoughtful Tips for Special Diets
Over the years, I’ve shared meals with friends and family who have different dietary needs, and it’s taught me how a few thoughtful tweaks can make everyone feel included around the table. If you or a loved one are sugar-conscious or managing blood sugar, this Sweet Potato Casserole can easily be adapted to fit your lifestyle.
For a diabetic-friendly version, consider using a natural sweetener like monk fruit or stevia in place of granulated sugar—just be sure to check the conversion ratios since some are sweeter than sugar. You can also emphasize the warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg, which add so much flavor without any added sugar. Another idea is to keep portion sizes modest and balance your plate with protein and greens to support glycemic control.
If you avoid gluten, simply swap the all-purpose flour in the topping with a gluten-free blend or almond flour—it works like a charm. For nut allergies, toasted sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds make a wonderful crunch instead of pecans. Remember, cooking is all about making it yours, so don’t be afraid to experiment!
How to Serve Sweet Potato Casserole
I’ll never forget the first time I brought this Thanksgiving Sweet Potato Casserole to my in-laws’ table years ago—it was such a hit that now it’s requested every year without fail. There’s something about that warm, cinnamon spiced mashed sweet potatoes topped with a crunchy pecan blanket that just feels like home.
This baked sweet potato holiday side dish pairs wonderfully with so many classics—think roasted turkey, honey-glazed ham, or even a simple roasted chicken. For a full spread, I love serving it alongside green beans, herbed stuffing, and cranberry sauce. It also shines next to other veggie sides like this hearty potato squash casserole or a fresh garden salad.
Leftovers? They’re a treat the next day. I sometimes warm a scoop and top it with Greek yogurt for breakfast, or pair it with a slice of turkey for a quick lunch. And if you’re planning a festive brunch, don’t miss these delightful Christmas breakfast ideas to start the day with joy.
Mistakes to Avoid
I’ve made my share of kitchen blunders over the years, and even this beloved Sweet Potato Casserole isn’t immune to a few common slips. But don’t worry—with a bit of know-how, you can sidestep these pitfalls and ensure your dish turns out perfectly every time. Here are the mistakes I’ve learned to avoid, along with my tried-and-true fixes.
First, don’t overmix the sweet potato filling once you’ve mashed it. Too much stirring can make the texture gummy instead of light and fluffy. I gently fold in my ingredients just until combined—it keeps that dreamy, creamy baked sweet potato pudding consistency we all love. Also, always taste your filling before baking. Sweet potatoes vary in natural sweetness, so you might need a touch more spice or a little less sugar.
Another misstep? Skipping the step of toasting your pecans for the topping. Raw nuts won’t give you that deep, nutty flavor or satisfying crunch. I toast mine in a dry skillet for a few minutes until fragrant—it makes all the difference in that buttery pecan streusel topping recipe. And if you’re curious about other delicious ways to use pecans, my pecan pie cheesecake is a showstopper dessert you’ll adore.
Finally, be careful not to overbake your casserole. You want the topping golden and crisp, but the filling should remain moist. I set a timer and check a few minutes early—every oven is different! For more insight into balancing flavors and textures, North Carolina Public Television shares lovely tips on achieving the perfect bake. And if you love sweet potatoes in all forms, try my maple pecan roasted sweet potatoes for a simpler but equally delicious side.
How to Store Sweet Potato Casserole
I’ll never forget the year my aunt brought over an entire extra dish of Sweet Potato Casserole “just in case”—turns out, we devoured both by the next afternoon! Whether you’re planning ahead or savoring leftovers, here’s how to keep this holiday favorite tasting fresh and delicious.
Once cooled, transfer your casserole to an airtight container—it will stay good in the fridge for up to four days. You can also cover the baking dish tightly with foil if you prefer. To reheat, pop it in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, usually about 20 minutes. If the topping needs a little refresh, a quick broil brings back that wonderful crunch.
Freezing is a great option too. I often make a double batch and freeze one before baking. Just assemble your baked sweet potato holiday side dish, wrap it well in plastic and foil, and freeze for up to three months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before baking as directed. For more make-ahead inspiration, check out my healthy Thanksgiving sides roundup or this cozy Mexican sweet potato chicken soup that freezes beautifully.
Try This Sweet Potato Casserole Yourself
There’s nothing quite like the moment you pull this Sweet Potato Casserole from the oven—the aroma of cinnamon and toasted pecans filling your kitchen, the golden topping promising something special. I hope you’ll give this recipe a try and make it a part of your own family traditions, just like it has been in mine for so many years.
Whether it’s your first time making a Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe or you’re looking to refine your classic, this version is forgiving, flexible, and full of love. Share it at your next gathering, savor it on a quiet evening, or pass the recipe along to someone who needs a taste of comfort. Cooking, after all, is about connection—and this dish has a way of bringing people together.
If you enjoyed this recipe, I think you’ll love these other sweet potato favorites: grilled sweet potato wedges for summer cookouts, Southwest sweet potato black bean dip for game day, or homemade sweet potato chips for a crispy snack. For more holiday inspiration, browse healthy Thanksgiving desserts and these adorable mini pecan pies that disappear fast!
Frequently Asked Questions
What goes in sweet potato casserole?
A classic sweet potato casserole includes mashed sweet potatoes, warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg, a touch of sweetness from sugar or maple syrup, and often a creamy element like milk or butter. The topping is usually a crunchy mix of pecans, brown sugar, and flour—though some versions use marshmallows instead. For a flavorful twist, try my roasted sweet potato kale quinoa salad too!
What is in Ruth’s Chris sweet potato casserole?
Ruth’s Chris is famous for their rich version made with mashed sweet potatoes, brown sugar, butter, and a pecan streusel topping. It’s famously indulgent and served as a side dish with their steaks. My recipe offers a similarly delicious brown sugar pecan crumble topping but lets you adjust sweetness to your liking.
Is it better to bake or boil sweet potatoes for sweet potato casserole?
I prefer baking sweet potatoes for casserole—it concentrates their natural sweetness and gives a deeper flavor. Boiling can make them watery and dilute the taste. If you’re short on time, you can steam or microwave them, but roasting really brings out the best in your cinnamon spiced mashed sweet potatoes.
What is the most delicious way to cook sweet potatoes?
Roasting is my go-to for maximum flavor—it caramelizes the natural sugars and makes them tender inside. For a fun alternative, try grilling them as wedges or making baked sweet potato fries. You can also enjoy them in soups, like my sweet potato chicken soup, or even mashed into desserts.
Cozy Sweet Potato Recipes You’ll Love
If this casserole won your heart, here are more sweet potato ideas that bring comfort and joy to any meal.
Maple Pecan Roasted Sweet Potatoes – Sweet, savory, and perfect for a simple weeknight side.
Southwest Sweet Potato Black Bean Dip – A zesty, crowd-pleasing appetizer with a kick.
Grilled Sweet Potato Wedges – Smoky, tender, and great for summer barbecues.
Sweet Potato Chicken Soup – A hearty, nourishing bowl that comforts from the inside out.
