Best Sweet Potato Casserole With Butter Pecan Crumble Topping Recipe

The Coziest Sweet Potato Casserole With Butter Pecan Crumble Topping Recipe

Crafting a delectable sweet potato casserole with butter pecan crumble topping brings comfort and warmth to any gathering.

Creamy mashed sweet potatoes create a velvety base that melts in your mouth.

Nutty pecans and rich butter transform the classic side dish into a decadent experience.

Subtle hints of cinnamon and brown sugar weave through each delightful bite.

Soft underneath and crunchy on top, this casserole balances textures that dance across your palate.

Minimal ingredients and simple preparation make this recipe a stress-free addition to your meal.

Scoop up a helping and watch everyone’s eyes light with pure culinary joy.

Sweet Potato Casserole with Butter Pecan Crumble: Why It’s a Favorite

  • Simplify Thanksgiving Prep: This sweet potato casserole streamlines holiday cooking with minimal ingredients and straightforward steps, perfect for busy home cooks looking to reduce kitchen stress.
  • Crowd-Pleasing Comfort: Combining the natural sweetness of mashed sweet potatoes with a crunchy pecan topping creates a universally loved dish that appeals to both kids and adults at family gatherings.
  • Versatile Side Dish Superstar: Works beautifully as a festive holiday side or a comforting year-round accompaniment, transforming ordinary meals into special culinary experiences with its rich, indulgent flavors.
  • Stress-Free Baking: Requires basic cooking skills and common pantry ingredients, making it accessible for novice and experienced home cooks alike, with minimal technical expertise needed to achieve delicious results.

Key Ingredients in Sweet Potato Casserole with Butter Pecan Crumble

Main Ingredients:
  • Sweet Potatoes: Starchy root vegetables that form the creamy base of this comforting casserole.
  • Pecans: Crunchy nuts that create a delightful topping with rich, nutty flavor.
Baking Ingredients:
  • Brown Sugar, Flour: Key components that help bind and sweeten the casserole topping.
  • Butter, Softened Butter: Adds richness and helps create a smooth texture in both the base and topping.
Flavor Enhancers:
  • Milk, Eggs, Vanilla, Salt: Essential ingredients that provide moisture, structure, depth of flavor, and balanced seasoning to the sweet potato base.

How to Bake Sweet Potato Casserole with Butter Pecan Crumble

Step 1: Boil and Mash Sweet Potatoes

Rinse sweet potatoes thoroughly. Place them in a large pot of water and bring to a rolling boil.

Cook until fork-tender, which typically takes about 15-20 minutes. Drain the potatoes and let them cool slightly.

Peel the skin and transfer to a large mixing bowl. Mash the sweet potatoes until they reach a smooth, creamy consistency.

Step 2: Create Sweet Potato Mixture

Blend the mashed sweet potatoes with the following ingredients:
  • Brown sugar
  • Whole milk
  • Unsalted butter (melted)
  • Large eggs (beaten)
  • Pure vanilla extract
  • Sea salt

Whisk everything together until well combined and silky smooth. Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish, spreading it evenly.

Step 3: Prepare Butter Pecan Crumble

In a separate bowl, combine these ingredients to create the topping:
  • Chopped pecans
  • Brown sugar
  • All-purpose flour
  • Softened butter

Mix the ingredients with your fingers or a fork until they form a loose, crumbly texture.

Step 4: Bake the Casserole

Sprinkle the butter pecan crumble evenly over the sweet potato base.

Place the baking dish in a preheated oven and bake until the top turns golden brown and the edges are bubbling. This typically takes 25-30 minutes.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes. This allows the dish to set and makes serving easier.

Scoop onto plates and serve warm as a delightful side dish or dessert.

Tips to Maximize Flavor in Sweet Potato Casserole with Butter Pecan Crumble

  • Choose medium-sized sweet potatoes for consistent cooking and smoother mashing.
  • Drain sweet potatoes thoroughly to prevent watery casserole texture.
  • Add cinnamon or nutmeg for enhanced warm, aromatic flavor profile.
  • Use room temperature ingredients to ensure better mixing and even baking.
  • Prepare crumble topping just before sprinkling to maintain crisp texture and prevent soggy results.

Flavorful Additions to Try with Sweet Potato Casserole with Butter Pecan Crumble

  • Vegan Sweet Potato Delight: Replace eggs with mashed banana or flax eggs, use coconut milk instead of dairy milk, and swap butter with coconut oil for a plant-based version.
  • Gluten-Free Comfort Casserole: Substitute wheat flour with almond flour or gluten-free flour blend in the crumble topping to make the recipe celiac-friendly.
  • Maple Walnut Alternative: Swap pecans with walnuts and use maple syrup instead of brown sugar for a different flavor profile that adds richness and depth.
  • Low-Sugar Wellness Option: Use stevia or monk fruit sweetener in place of brown sugar, and reduce overall sugar content while maintaining a delicious sweet potato casserole experience.

Complementary Dishes That Match Sweet Potato Casserole with Butter Pecan Crumble

  • Cozy Holiday Centerpiece: Place the casserole in a rustic ceramic dish as a stunning thanksgiving or christmas dinner centerpiece, drawing guests' eyes with its golden-brown crumble and inviting aroma.
  • Dessert Transformation: Serve a scoop of vanilla ice cream alongside each portion, creating a delightful sweet-and-cold contrast that elevates the warm, rich casserole into a decadent dessert experience.
  • Brunch Side Delight: Pair the casserole with crispy bacon and scrambled eggs for a hearty weekend brunch, offering a sweet and savory combination that guests will absolutely love.
  • Portable Potluck Star: Pack individual servings in small mason jars for easy transport to family gatherings, making this dish a convenient and impressive potluck contribution that everyone will enjoy.

Best Methods to Keep Sweet Potato Casserole with Butter Pecan Crumble Fresh

  • Refrigerate leftover casserole in an airtight container for up to 4 days, ensuring it's completely cooled before storing.
  • Freeze individual portions or the entire casserole in freezer-safe containers for maximum 2 months.
  • Cover tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn and maintain flavor quality.
  • Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating for best texture and taste.

FAQs

  • Are sweet potatoes nutritious?

Sweet potatoes are packed with vitamins A and C, fiber, and antioxidants. They support eye health, boost immunity, and provide essential nutrients for overall wellness.

  • Can I use canned sweet potatoes instead of fresh?

Yes, canned sweet potatoes work perfectly. Just drain and mash them before mixing with other ingredients. They save time and still deliver delicious results.

  • What type of pecans work best for the crumble?

Halved or chopped raw pecans are ideal. Toast them lightly beforehand to enhance their nutty flavor and provide extra crunch in the topping.

  • How do I know when the casserole is fully baked?

Look for a golden-brown crumble topping and bubbling edges. The center should be set and not liquid. A knife inserted near the center should come out clean.

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Best Sweet Potato Casserole With Butter Pecan Crumble Topping Recipe

Best Sweet Potato Casserole With Butter Pecan Crumble Topping Recipe


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4.8 from 37 reviews

  • Total Time: 1 hour
  • Yield: 8 1x

Description

Hearty sweet potato casserole with butter pecan crumble topping brings southern comfort to holiday tables. Creamy mashed sweet potatoes blend perfectly with a crunchy, caramelized pecan streusel that makes you crave another delightful bite.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

  • 3 pounds sweet potatoes
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • 1/2 cup butter

Sweeteners:

  • 1/2 cup brown sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Seasoning:

  • 1 teaspoon salt

Pecan Crumble Topping (not categorized):

  • 1 cup pecans
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar
  • 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 cup butter
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Instructions

  1. Carefully peel sweet potatoes and cut into uniform chunks for even cooking.
  2. Submerge potato pieces in boiling water, cooking until fork-tender, approximately 15-20 minutes.
  3. Drain potatoes completely and transfer to a large mixing bowl, mashing thoroughly until achieving a silky, lump-free consistency.
  4. Whisk together mashed sweet potatoes with brown sugar, creating a smooth, rich base.
  5. Incorporate milk, melted butter, beaten eggs, vanilla extract, and salt, stirring until ingredients are fully integrated.
  6. Transfer the creamy sweet potato mixture into a greased baking dish, spreading evenly to create a uniform layer.
  7. For the crumble topping, combine chopped pecans, brown sugar, and flour in a separate bowl.
  8. Work softened butter into the dry ingredients using fingertips or a fork until a loose, crumbly texture forms.
  9. Generously distribute the pecan crumble across the sweet potato surface, ensuring complete coverage.
  10. Preheat oven to 375°F and bake the casserole for 25-30 minutes, watching for a golden-brown, crispy topping.
  11. Remove from oven and allow to rest for 10 minutes, which helps the casserole set and intensifies flavors.
  12. Serve warm, offering a delightful contrast between the creamy sweet potato base and crunchy pecan topping.

Notes

  • Choose firm, vibrant orange sweet potatoes with smooth skin for the best flavor and texture.
  • Use a potato masher or electric mixer to achieve a silky-smooth consistency without lumps.
  • Press the pecan crumble gently into the surface to ensure it adheres well during baking.
  • Swap dairy milk with almond or oat milk for a vegan version, and use gluten-free flour to make the recipe celiac-friendly.
  • Prep Time: 30 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Dinner, Snacks, Desserts
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 8
  • Calories: 220 kcal
  • Sugar: 18 g
  • Sodium: 150 mg
  • Fat: 9 g
  • Saturated Fat: 5 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 3 g
  • Trans Fat: 0.2 g
  • Carbohydrates: 30 g
  • Fiber: 3 g
  • Protein: 3 g
  • Cholesterol: 40 mg
Jack Monroe

Jack Monroe

Founder & Recipe Innovator

Expertise

Pacific Northwest cuisine, Single-serving recipe development, Sustainable sourcing and cooking, Modern comfort food​

Education

Brightwater
Associate of Applied Science in Culinary Arts
Focus: Sustainable cooking, seasonal ingredients, and food systems education


Jack grew up with a fishing rod in one hand and a cast-iron skillet in the other. After graduating from Brightwater: A Center for the Study of Food, he set out to prove that cooking for one could still taste like a feast.
Jack believes that food should feel real: fresh, fearless, and a little wild, just like the rivers he grew up around. For Jack, every single dish is a small adventure, and the best ones are the ones you can cook with heart, not hassle.

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