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.

Ingredients

Scale

Sweet Potato Mixture

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)

Pecan Topping

¾ cup light brown sugar
⅓ cup all-purpose flour
⅓ cup unsalted butter, melted
1 cup chopped pecans

Optional Garnish

Mini marshmallows (for topping and broiling)

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

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1/8 casserole (approximately 3/4 cup)
Calories: 320
Sugar: 21g
Sodium: 150mg
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Unsaturated Fat: 9g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 42g
Fiber: 4g
Protein: 4g
Cholesterol: 40mg

Keywords: sweet potato casserole, pecan topping, holiday side dish, Thanksgiving, vegan option, comfort food