Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecan Topping

This delicious sweet potato casserole with pecan topping is a must-have side dish for Thanksgiving dinner and also perfect for Christmas dinner (or any meal really)!

Sweet potato casserole is a beloved Thanksgiving dish, but it’s also delicious all year round. This version takes it to a whole new level with a brown sugar pecan crumble topping. Traditionally it’s a side dish, but this variation can easily pass as a dessert.

Why We Love This Recipe

• Both the sweet potato filling and pecan topping whip up really fast; most of the time required is bake time.
• It’s a must for our Thanksgiving dinner spread, and we also make it for Christmas Eve.
• The recipe makes about 10 to 12 servings, and it’s easy to double if needed.
• A dessert disguised as a side dish, the streusel makes this casserole sweet and delicious.

Ingredients

This yummy side dish requires only a handful of ingredients. Here is what you’ll need for both the sweet potato mix and streusel topping.

Sweet Potato Filling

For the sweet potato layer, you likely have almost everything you need in the fridge or pantry. The canned yams may be the one exception.

Canned sweet potatoes – yams in light syrup, drained; the large cans are around 29 ounces.

Sugar – granulated white sugar.

Milk – we use 2% milk.

Butter – melted butter or margarine will work.

Eggs – whole eggs, both whites and egg yolks.

Vanilla – pure vanilla extract.

Pecan Streusel Topping

The streusel topping is what takes this casserole to the next level. The best part—it only takes 4 simple ingredients.

Flour – all-purpose flour.

Brown sugar – light brown sugar, packed.

Pecans – chopped pecans, you can buy chopped at the store or do your own chopping.

Butter – melted butter or margarine will work.

Supplies

• 8 x 8-inch casserole pan
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Stand mixer or electric mixer with a medium mixing bowl
• Small mixing bowl and spoon

Mixer: we love how a stand mixer (or hand mixer) makes the job of mixing the sweet potato layer much easier. But a potato masher or fork will work to mash the sweet potatoes as well.

How to Make Sweet Potato Casserole

Start by preheating the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.

Next, prepare an 8 x 8-inch baking dish with baking spray.

Sweet Potato Layer

Now let’s make the sweet potato filling. Begin by draining the canned sweet potatoes and adding them to a medium-sized mixing bowl.

Mash the sweet potatoes using a stand mixer or an electric mixer. (You could also use a potato masher or fork.)

Then add sugar, milk, butter, eggs, and vanilla extract to the mashed sweet potatoes.

Blend this sweet potato mixture together until smooth.

Pour the sweet potato mixture into the prepared baking dish.

Pecan Streusel Topping

In a small bowl, mix together the flour and brown sugar.

Next, add the chopped pecans and stir together.

Pour the melted butter over the flour, sugar, and pecan mixture. Mix well.

Then, sprinkle the pecan topping over the sweet potato mixture. It should cover the entire surface of the sweet potato mixture.

Bake the sweet potato casserole for about 40 minutes at 350°F. Or until the casserole no longer jiggles in the middle and the streusel has caramelized.

Remove from the oven and serve immediately. This dish is so delicious when warm.

We serve this sweet potato dish every Thanksgiving and often on Christmas Eve.

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How to store sweet potato casserole leftovers

If you find yourself with a dish of leftover sweet potato casserole, there are a few options for storing it. Here are our recommendations.

1. Fridge: the best way to keep sweet potato casserole fresh is to put it in an airtight container and store it in the fridge for up to 3 to 5 days.
2. Freezer: alternatively, you can freeze sweet potato casserole for up to 3 to 4 months. Be sure to use a freezer-safe container and thaw the casserole in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Can you freeze sweet potato casserole?

Yes, you can freeze sweet potato casserole. Just be sure to use an airtight, freezer-safe container. You can store the sweet potato casserole for up to 3 to 4 months in the freezer.

How long can sweet potato casserole sit out?

In general, sweet potato casserole can be left out at room temperature for up to two hours. After that, it should be refrigerated or thrown away. By following these guidelines, you can enjoy your sweet potato casserole without worrying about food poisoning.

Can I use fresh sweet potatoes?

Yes, you can use fresh produce instead of canned. Just note that this recipe uses canned sweet potatoes that are actually yams in light syrup. So the best substitute is freshly cooked yams.

More Delicious Side Dish Recipes

• Roasted broccoli in the air fryer
• Air-fried corn on the cob
• Easy pico de gallo

More Thanksgiving Recipes

• Homemade dinner rolls
• Cranberry cinnamon cornbread

Final Thoughts

Who doesn’t love a good sweet potato casserole around the holidays? This dish is always a crowd-pleaser, and for good reason. The combination of sweet potatoes, pecans, and brown sugar crumble is simply divine. If you’re looking for a show-stopping side dish to make for your next holiday gathering, this is the perfect option.

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Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecan Topping