Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe

Sweet potato casserole is a humble dish that celebrates the earthiness of root vegetables with a touch of sweetness and spice.

I’ve always loved how it transforms simple ingredients into something special, especially during fall gatherings.

But this version, with its crunchy pecan topping and a hint of cinnamon, feels like a warm hug on a chilly afternoon.

Why I Keep Coming Back to This Dish

The smell alone, roasted pecans and sweet potatoes, calls me back. It’s perfect for chilly days when comfort matters.

Plus, I love how adaptable it is swap nuts, add a splash of bourbon, or make it vegan.

It’s a reminder that simple ingredients can turn into something memorable.

Breaking Down the Sweetness and Spice

• Sweet potatoes: Natural sweetness, earthy, tender when cooked.
• Cinnamon: Warm spice that enhances sweetness, use fresh for brighter flavor.
• Nutmeg: A pinch adds nutty depth, strong so use sparingly.
• Brown sugar: Rich, molassy sweetness, balances savory notes.
• Chopped pecans: Crunchy, buttery, adding texture and a nutty flavor.
• Oats: Adds a hearty crunch, slightly smoky when toasted.
• Butter: Richness binds flavors, melt until golden.

Tools of the Trade for This Cozy Dish

• Large pot: Boil sweet potatoes evenly.
• Masher or fork: Smooth out cooked sweet potatoes.
• Baking dish: Hold the casserole during baking.
• Mixing bowls: Combine ingredients for mash and topping.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Ensure accuracy for spices and toppings.

Step-by-Step Guide to a Perfect Sweet Potato Casserole

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).

Step 2: Peel and chop 4 large sweet potatoes into chunks.

Step 3: Boil sweet potatoes in salted water until very tender, about 15-20 minutes.

Step 4: Drain and mash sweet potatoes until smooth, with a pat of butter and a splash of milk for creaminess.

Step 5: In a bowl, mix mashed sweet potatoes with a generous pinch of cinnamon and a dash of nutmeg.

Step 6: Transfer the mash to a greased baking dish, smoothing the top.

Step 7: Prepare the topping: mix brown sugar, chopped pecans, and a handful of oats.

Step 8: Sprinkle the topping evenly over the sweet potato layer.

Step 9: Bake for 25-30 minutes until the topping is golden and crispy.

Step 10: Let the casserole rest for 10 minutes before serving, to set the topping.

Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecan Topping

This comforting sweet potato casserole features tender, roasted sweet potatoes blended with warm spices, topped with a crunchy mixture of pecans, oats, and brown sugar. Baked until golden and crispy, it offers a harmonious blend of earthy sweetness and nutty texture, perfect for cozy fall gatherings.

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Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 30 minutes mins

Total Time 45 minutes mins

Course Main Course

Cuisine American

Servings 6

Calories 250 kcal

Equipment

• Large pot
• Masher or fork
• Baking dish
• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons

Ingredients

  

• 4 large sweet potatoes peeled and chopped
• 2 tbsp butter melted
• 1/4 cup milk for creaminess
• 1 tsp cinnamon fresh preferred
• 1/4 tsp nutmeg a pinch, optional
• 1/2 cup brown sugar molassy and rich
• 3/4 cup chopped pecans buttery and crunchy
• 1/2 cup oats toasted for added flavor
• pinch salt

Instructions

 

• Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
  
• Place peeled and chopped sweet potatoes into a large pot and cover with salted water. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, and cook until very tender, about 15-20 minutes.
  
• Drain the sweet potatoes well and transfer them to a mixing bowl. Mash them thoroughly with a fork or potato masher until smooth and creamy.
  
• Stir in melted butter, milk, cinnamon, nutmeg, and a pinch of salt into the mashed sweet potatoes, mixing until well combined and smooth.
  
• Transfer the sweet potato mixture into a greased baking dish, spreading it out evenly with the back of a spoon or spatula.
  
• In a separate bowl, combine brown sugar, chopped pecans, oats, and a pinch of salt. Mix until the ingredients are evenly coated and crumbly.
  
• Sprinkle the pecan topping evenly over the sweet potato layer, covering the surface completely.
  
• Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, until the topping is golden brown and crispy, and the casserole is bubbling around the edges.
  
• Optionally, broil for 2-3 minutes to enhance the crunch, but keep a close eye so it doesn’t burn.
• Remove from oven and let rest for about 10 minutes to allow the topping to set. The aroma of spices and toasted pecans will fill your kitchen.
  
• Serve warm, enjoying the creamy sweet potatoes contrasted with the crunchy, nutty topping for a cozy, satisfying dish.
  

Notes

For an extra flavor boost, stir in a splash of bourbon into the sweet potato mash or add a handful of dried cranberries to the topping before baking.

Keyword comfort food, fall, vegetarian

Cooking Checks and Tips to Keep in Mind

• Sweet potatoes should be fork-tender, not mushy.
• Topping should be golden-brown, not burnt.
• The casserole should jiggle slightly in the center when done.
• If topping isn’t crispy enough, broil for 2-3 minutes, watch carefully.

Common Pitfalls and How to Avoid Them

• Peeling too far in advance.? Peeling sweet potatoes too early, causing sogginess. Peel just before cooking.
• Boiling too long.? Overcooking potatoes, making mash gluey. Keep an eye on the boil, 15-20 mins max.
• Over-torched topping.? Topping burning before the casserole is hot. Cover with foil if browning too quickly.
• Skipping the broil step.? Topping not crunchy enough. Broil for 2-3 mins, but stay nearby.

This casserole isn’t just about the flavors, but about comfort, nostalgia, and the little moments of kitchen chaos that lead to something warm and inviting. Feel free to tweak the spices or add a splash of bourbon to the mash for a personal touch. It’s a dish that invites conversation and makes the table feel a little more like home, no matter the season.