This sweet potato casserole is a warm hug in a dish! Creamy sweet potatoes are topped with a crunchy pecan streusel that adds a yummy twist. It’s perfect for family dinners!
I can’t resist the cozy smell of this dish baking in the oven. Plus, it’s great for special occasions or just to enjoy a little sweetness any day of the week. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Sweet Potatoes: These are the star of the dish! Use firm, vibrant sweet potatoes. If you’re looking for a healthier twist, try butternut squash as a substitute.
Granulated Sugar: This sweetens the dish, but you can swap in brown sugar for a richer flavor. Maple syrup is also a delicious alternative, adding a hint of maple goodness.
Butter: Unsalted butter is the go-to here. For a lighter version, use coconut oil or vegan butter. Both work really well and add a different flavor twist!
Pecans: These nuts add crunch and richness. If you need a nut-free option, sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds can work nicely, too.
Milk/Cream: Milk makes the mixture creamy, but non-dairy options like almond or oat milk are great substitutes if you prefer plant-based.
How Do I Ensure My Sweet Potatoes Are Perfectly Mashed?
Mashing sweet potatoes might seem simple, but achieving that creamy texture is key! Here are steps to help you nail it:
- Cook sweet potatoes until they are very tender—check by poking them with a fork.
- Drain them well to remove excess water that could make your casserole soggy.
- Use a potato masher or hand mixer for smooth consistency. Go slowly to avoid over-mixing, which can make them gummy.
- Add warm milk and melted butter to keep everything smooth and creamy as you mix.
Using these tips, you’ll have luscious sweet potatoes that pair beautifully with the crunchy pecan topping!
Sweet Potato Casserole With Pecan Streusel
Ingredients:
For the Sweet Potato Base:
- 4 large sweet potatoes (about 3 pounds)
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/2 cup whole milk or heavy cream
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
For the Pecan Streusel Topping:
- 1 cup pecans, roughly chopped
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Pinch of salt
How Much Time Will You Need?
This dish takes about 20 minutes to prepare and then around 30-35 minutes to bake, for a total time of about 55-60 minutes. It’s simple to make and perfect for meal prep or holiday gatherings!
Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prepare for the casserole.
2. Cook the Sweet Potatoes:
Peel the sweet potatoes and cut them into chunks. Place the chunks in a large pot and fill it with cold water. Bring the pot to a boil and cook the sweet potatoes until they are super tender, which takes about 20 minutes. Once done, drain them well.
3. Mash the Sweet Potatoes:
Put the cooked sweet potatoes into a large mixing bowl. Use a potato masher or a hand mixer to mash them until they’re nice and smooth. This will be the base of your casserole!
4. Mix Ingredients for Sweet Potato Base:
Add in the granulated sugar, melted butter, milk (or cream), eggs, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Mix it all together until everything is well combined and creamy.
5. Prepare for Baking:
Pour the sweet potato mixture into your greased baking dish. Smooth the top until it’s even.
6. Make the Pecan Streusel Topping:
In a separate bowl, mix together the chopped pecans, flour, brown sugar, melted butter, ground cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. Stir it until the mixture forms coarse crumbs.
7. Add the Topping:
Sprinkle the pecan streusel mixture evenly over the sweet potato layer in the dish.
8. Bake:
Place the casserole in the oven and bake for about 30-35 minutes until the topping is golden brown and the casserole is heated through.
9. Serve:
Once it’s done baking, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving. Enjoy this warm and comforting dish with your family and friends!
This recipe yields a creamy sweet potato base complemented by a crunchy, buttery pecan streusel on top, making it a delightful side dish perfect for holidays or any cozy dinner.
Can I Make This Sweet Potato Casserole Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the sweet potato mixture and the pecan streusel topping a day ahead. Just store them separately in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to bake, assemble it in the dish and pop it in the oven! You may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s chilled.
What Can I Use Instead of Eggs?
If you’re looking for an egg substitute, you can use 1/4 cup of unsweetened applesauce or 1/4 cup of mashed banana per egg. This will help bind the sweet potato mixture without altering the flavor too much!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or in the microwave until hot.
Can I Use Different Nuts?
Yes! While pecans are traditional, you can use walnuts or even almonds for a different flavor and texture. Just chop them up similarly and mix them into the streusel topping for a tasty twist!
