Name: Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecans Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 cups mashed sweet potatoes (about 4 large sweet potatoes); ½ cup light brown sugar, packed; ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted; ½ cup milk (any kind); 2 large eggs; 1 tsp vanilla extract; ½ tsp cinnamon; ¼ tsp salt; 1–2 tbsp maple syrup (optional, for additional sweetness); 1 tsp orange zest (optional, for brightness); ¾ cup light brown sugar; ⅓ cup all-purpose flour; ⅓ cup unsalted butter, melted; 1 cup chopped pecans; Mini marshmallows (for topping and broiling)

Jump to Recipe

There is something so heartwarming and indulgent about Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecans. Combining creamy mashed sweet potatoes with a crunchy, buttery pecan topping, this dish strikes an irresistible balance between smooth and crunchy, sweet and nutty. It’s a classic comfort food that shines on holiday tables but is comforting enough to enjoy any time you crave a little cozy sweetness with texture. The gentle spices, vanilla, and hints of citrus or maple elevate this casserole beyond the ordinary, making it a true standout side that everyone will rave about.

Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecans Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe calls for simple, wholesome ingredients that transform into something magical in the oven. Each plays a crucial role in creating the rich flavor, silky texture, and crunchy topping that make this Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecans unforgettable.

Mashed sweet potatoes (4 cups): The creamy base that gives the casserole its vibrant color and natural sweetness.
Light brown sugar (½ cup, packed): Adds moisture and a gentle caramel sweetness to the filling.
Unsalted butter (¼ cup, melted): Brings richness and a velvety texture to the sweet potato mixture.
Milk (½ cup): Helps achieve that perfect smooth consistency without overpowering.
Eggs (2 large): Bind the ingredients together for structure and creaminess.
Vanilla extract (1 tsp): Infuses a warm, fragrant note that complements the sweet potatoes beautifully.
Cinnamon (½ tsp): Adds a subtle spice that enhances the depth of flavor.
Salt (¼ tsp): Balances the sweetness and brightens all the flavors.
Light brown sugar (¾ cup): For the topping, adding a rich sweetness that caramelizes as it bakes.
All-purpose flour (⅓ cup): Helps bind the topping and creates that perfect crumbly texture.
Unsalted butter (⅓ cup, melted): Gives the topping its luscious buttery flavor and crunch.
Chopped pecans (1 cup): The star crunch that adds toasty, nutty contrast and visual appeal.
Maple syrup (1–2 tbsp): (optional) Stir into the filling for an extra layer of natural sweetness and depth.
Orange zest: (optional) Brightens the filling with a fresh, citrusy zing.
Mini marshmallows: (optional) For those who love a decadent, gooey top finish, adding them just before serving takes the dish over the top.

How to Make Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecans

Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Baking Dish

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures a perfect baking temperature so the casserole cooks evenly. Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish well, as this prevents sticking and helps with clean serving later on.

Step 2: Mix the Sweet Potato Filling

In a large bowl, combine the mashed sweet potatoes with the ½ cup of light brown sugar, melted butter, milk, eggs, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt. If you’re using maple syrup and orange zest, fold them in now. Beat everything together until the mixture is smooth and creamy. This luscious filling is the heart of your casserole and sets the stage for all the delicious layers.

Step 3: Prepare the Pecan Topping

In a separate bowl, mix the ¾ cup light brown sugar, all-purpose flour, melted butter, and chopped pecans. This blend forms the crunchy, golden topping that contrasts beautifully with the soft sweet potatoes below. Stir just until combined to maintain a crumbly texture when baked.

Step 4: Assemble and Bake

Pour the sweet potato filling evenly into the greased baking dish and smooth the surface with a spatula. Sprinkle the pecan topping evenly over the filling. Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 35 to 40 minutes, or until the topping is golden and the center is set but still moist.

Step 5: Add Marshmallows (Optional) and Cool

If you want to add a marshmallow topping, sprinkle mini marshmallows over the baked casserole in the last few minutes, then broil for 1 to 2 minutes until they’re puffed and lightly browned. Let the casserole cool slightly before serving so the layers can set and your spoon will scoop out neat, heavenly portions.

How to Serve Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecans

Garnishes

Although the casserole is stunning on its own, a light sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley or a dusting of cinnamon adds a pop of color and subtle freshness. You can also drizzle a touch of maple syrup over individual servings for a glossy, sweet finish.

Side Dishes

Sweet potato casserole with pecans pairs beautifully with roasted turkey, glazed ham, or savory stuffing, making it a perfect feature at any festive meal. For a vegetarian feast, it complements green bean almondine and autumnal salads like spinach with cranberries and pecans.

Creative Ways to Present

For a more festive presentation, serve the casserole in individual ramekins to create elegant single portions. You can also layer the sweet potato filling and topping in clear glass dishes for a striking visual effect, showing off the golden pecans and vibrant orange beneath.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, cover the casserole tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate. It keeps well for up to 4 days. This makes it a great make-ahead side for busy days when you want amazing food without fuss.

Freezing

You can freeze the casserole either before or after baking. If freezing before baking, assemble it fully, cover tightly with foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready, bake from frozen, adding extra time as needed. If freezing leftovers, portion into airtight containers to avoid freezer burn and thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers in the oven at 325°F (163°C) until warmed through, usually about 20 to 30 minutes depending on portion size. This keeps the topping crisp and the filling creamy, unlike microwaving which can make the topping soggy.

FAQs

Can I use canned sweet potatoes for this casserole?

While fresh sweet potatoes provide the best flavor and texture, you can use canned sweet potatoes if pressed for time. Just make sure to drain them well and mash to a smooth consistency before mixing with the other ingredients.

What can I substitute for pecans if I have allergies?

Walnuts or almonds work as good substitutes and will still provide that lovely crunch. If you want to avoid nuts altogether, try using toasted oats or crushed pretzels for a different but enjoyable texture.

Is this casserole suitable for vegan diets?

Traditional recipes include eggs, butter, and milk, but you can adapt it by using plant-based milk, vegan butter, and an egg substitute such as flax eggs or commercial egg replacers. The pecan topping can be made vegan easily as well.

How sweet is this dish? Can I reduce sugar?

This casserole has a balanced sweetness thanks to the brown sugar and optional maple syrup, which complements the natural sweetness of the yams. You can reduce the sugar amounts slightly if you prefer a less sweet dish, but don’t eliminate it completely as it helps with texture and caramelization.

Can I prepare the casserole entirely the day before serving?

Absolutely! You can fully assemble and refrigerate it overnight. Take it out of the fridge about 30 minutes before baking to come closer to room temperature, then bake as directed. This makes hosting much easier and stress-free.

Final Thoughts

I really encourage you to give this Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecans a try. It’s a recipe that never fails to delight with its wonderful blend of creamy, sweet, and crunchy textures, plus nostalgic warmth. Whether it becomes a holiday tradition or a new weeknight favorite, you’re in for a truly comforting and satisfying treat that’s as beautiful as it is delicious.

Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecans Recipe

★★★★★

4.7 from 6 reviews

Author: Lana
Total Time: 55 minutes
Yield: 8 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

A classic Sweet Potato Casserole with a creamy sweet potato base and a crunchy pecan topping. This comforting dish combines the natural sweetness of mashed sweet potatoes with warm spices and a buttery, nutty crumble, making it a perfect side for holiday meals or cozy family dinners.

Instructions

Preheat Oven and Prepare Dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
Mix Sweet Potato Filling: In a large bowl, combine the mashed sweet potatoes, ½ cup brown sugar, melted butter, milk, eggs, vanilla extract, cinnamon, salt, maple syrup (if using), and orange zest (if using). Mix until the texture is smooth and ingredients are well incorporated. Pour this mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish.
Prepare Pecan Topping: In a separate bowl, stir together the ¾ cup brown sugar, flour, melted butter, and chopped pecans until the mixture is crumbly and all ingredients are uniformly combined. Sprinkle this topping evenly over the sweet potato mixture in the baking dish.
Bake the Casserole: Place the casserole in the oven and bake uncovered for 35 to 40 minutes. Bake until the topping is golden brown and the center of the casserole is set and firm to the touch.
Cool and Optional Broil: Let the casserole cool slightly before serving. If desired, sprinkle mini marshmallows on top and place under the broiler for 1 to 2 minutes until marshmallows are toasted and melted for an extra decadent finish.

Notes

Maple syrup adds a lovely depth of sweetness and can be adjusted or omitted according to taste.
Orange zest brightens the filling, balancing the sweet and earthy flavors.
Mini marshmallows on top are optional but add a classic, festive touch.
For a dairy-free variation, use plant-based milk and vegan butter alternatives.
Sweet potatoes can be cooked by baking, boiling, or steaming before mashing.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Category: Side Dish
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American