The Most Heavenly Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe Ever Made

Comfort arrives with this sweet potato casserole that promises warm, creamy deliciousness straight from your kitchen.

Southern kitchens have perfected this classic side dish for generations.

Soft, velvety sweet potatoes create a luxurious base beneath a crunchy pecan topping.

Marshmallows optional but strongly recommended for those who love a touch of indulgence.

Imagine a dish that hugs your taste buds with rich, buttery goodness.

Unexpected textures and flavors mingle in each perfectly crafted bite.

You won’t be able to resist seconds of this irresistible casserole.

Pro Tips for Flavorful Sweet Potato Casserole

• Mash potatoes while warm to achieve a silky, lump-free texture that blends perfectly with other ingredients.
• Sprinkle pecan topping just before baking to maintain its crispy crunch and prevent moisture absorption.
• Replace mini marshmallows with toasted coconut flakes for a healthier, tropical-inspired alternative that adds delightful texture.
• Substitute butter with coconut oil and use almond milk to create a lactose-free version without compromising rich, creamy flavor.
• Add a pinch of ground ginger or cardamom to elevate the warm, aromatic notes and create a more complex taste experience.

Creative Variations for Sweet Potato Casserole

• Vegan Veggie Variation: Replace sweet potatoes with mashed butternut squash, use coconut oil instead of butter, and swap eggs with flax eggs. Top with crushed almonds and coconut sugar for a plant-based alternative.
• Gluten-Free Friendly Version: Substitute regular flour with almond flour or gluten-free flour blend in the streusel topping. Use certified gluten-free ingredients to ensure safe preparation.
• Low-Sugar Option: Reduce brown and granulated sugar amounts, replace with stevia or monk fruit sweetener. Add extra cinnamon and nutmeg for enhanced flavor without added calories.
• Nut-Free Alternative: Skip pecans in the topping, replace with sunflower seeds or rolled oats. Use pumpkin pie spice instead of individual spices for a quick flavor boost.

Serving Suggestions for Sweet Potato Casserole

• Holiday Feast Companion: Pair this sweet potato casserole with roasted turkey, glazed ham, or herb-crusted chicken for a complete holiday meal.
• Dessert-Like Presentation: Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream to enhance the sweet, creamy texture.
• Breakfast Remix: Transform leftovers into a morning treat by adding a sprinkle of extra pecans and enjoying alongside crispy bacon or fluffy scrambled eggs.
• Potluck Perfection: Prepare the casserole in a portable dish and bring to gatherings, as it travels well and stays delicious at room temperature.

How to Store Sweet Potato Casserole Safely

• Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days, covering the casserole with plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent drying out.
• Transfer cooled casserole to a freezer-safe dish, wrap tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 2 months.
• Place individual portions on a microwave-safe plate, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat in 30-second intervals until warmed through, stirring occasionally.
• Thaw frozen casserole in the refrigerator overnight, then bake at 350F for 20-25 minutes, covering with foil to prevent the topping from burning.

FAQs

• Are sweet potatoes nutritious?

Sweet potatoes are packed with vitamins A and C, fiber, and potassium. They’re a nutrient-dense root vegetable that offers excellent health benefits and can support immune function.

• Can I use canned sweet potatoes instead of fresh?

Yes, you can substitute fresh sweet potatoes with canned ones. Just drain them well and make sure they’re plain, without added sugars or syrups. The texture might be slightly different, but the flavor will remain similar.

• How can I make this recipe gluten-free?

To make the casserole gluten-free, replace regular flour in the streusel topping with gluten-free flour or almond flour. Ensure all other ingredients are certified gluten-free to prevent cross-contamination.

Sweet Potato Casserole with a Deliciously Sweet Finish

• Savor Comfort Food Delight: A heartwarming sweet potato casserole that wraps you in cozy, delicious flavors perfect for family gatherings and holiday meals.
• Customize with Ease: Flexible recipe offering two topping options – crunchy pecan streusel or gooey marshmallow – letting you personalize based on family preferences.
• Minimal Prep, Maximum Flavor: Simple ingredients and straightforward steps make this dish accessible for cooks of all skill levels, from beginners to experienced home chefs.
• Nutritious and Indulgent: Sweet potatoes provide essential nutrients while the rich, sweet toppings create a balanced treat that feels both wholesome and decadent.

Ingredients Needed for Sweet Potato Casserole

• Sweet Potatoes: Fresh root vegetables that provide the creamy and hearty foundation of the casserole.
• Butter: Adds richness and smooth texture to the sweet potato mixture.
• Eggs: Help bind the ingredients together and create a soft, custard-like consistency.
• Milk: Contributes moisture and helps create a creamy texture.

• Brown Sugar, Granulated Sugar: Provide sweetness and caramel-like depth to the casserole.
• Vanilla Extract: Adds a warm and aromatic flavor to the dish.
• Cinnamon, Nutmeg: Warm spices that complement the sweet potatoes and create a classic autumn flavor profile.
• Salt: Balances and enhances the overall taste of the casserole.

• Pecans, Brown Sugar, Flour, Butter: Create a crunchy and sweet streusel topping that adds texture and flavor.
• Mini Marshmallows (Optional): Provide a gooey, sweet layer that can be added for extra indulgence.

How to Bake a Moist Sweet Potato Casserole

Step 1: Warm Up the Cooking Space

Turn on the oven and set the temperature to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.

This will create the perfect cozy environment for your sweet potato casserole.

Step 2: Prepare Sweet Potato Goodness

Add cubed sweet potatoes to a large pot of boiling water.

Cook until they become soft and tender, which usually takes about 15-20 minutes.

Once done, drain the water and let the potatoes cool down slightly.

Step 3: Create Creamy Sweet Potato Base

Grab a large mixing bowl and transform those tender sweet potatoes into a smooth mash.

• Melted butter
• Brown sugar
• Granulated sugar
• Eggs
• Milk
• Vanilla extract
• Cinnamon
• Nutmeg
• Salt

Blend everything together until the mixture looks perfectly combined and creamy.

Step 4: Prepare the Baking Dish

Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and spread the sweet potato mixture evenly across the surface.

Step 5: Craft the Crunchy Topping

• Chopped pecans
• Brown sugar
• Flour
• Melted butter

Sprinkle this delightful streusel topping evenly over the sweet potato base.

Step 6: Bake to Golden Perfection

Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes.

You’ll know it’s ready when the topping turns a beautiful golden brown color.

Step 7: Optional Marshmallow Magic

For an extra decadent version, after 20 minutes of baking, remove the casserole and scatter mini marshmallows on top.

Return to the oven for an additional 5-10 minutes until the marshmallows become golden and wonderfully gooey.

Step 8: Rest and Serve

Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before serving.

This helps the flavors settle and makes cutting easier.

Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe

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4.9 from 22 reviews

• Total Time: 55 minutes
• Yield: 8 1x

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Description

Southern sweet potato casserole elevates traditional holiday sides with its irresistible marshmallow topping and creamy filling. Comfort meets elegance in this classic dish that will delight guests at any family gathering.

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Ingredients

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Main Ingredients:

• 4 large sweet potatoes (about 4 pounds), peeled and cubed
• 2 large eggs
• 1/2 cup whole milk

Sweeteners and Spices:

• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

Additional Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

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Instructions

1. Heat the oven to 350F (175C) and generously grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
2. Place cubed sweet potatoes in a large pot of boiling water, cooking until fork-tender, approximately 15-20 minutes. Thoroughly drain and allow to cool slightly.
3. Transfer sweet potatoes to a large mixing bowl and mash until completely smooth and creamy, eliminating any lumps.
4. Incorporate melted butter, brown sugar, granulated sugar, eggs, milk, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt into the mashed sweet potatoes, stirring until the mixture is uniformly blended.
5. Carefully spread the sweet potato mixture into the prepared baking dish, ensuring an even layer for consistent cooking.
6. Create the streusel topping by combining chopped pecans, brown sugar, flour, and melted butter in a separate bowl, mixing until the ingredients form a crumbly texture.
7. Distribute the streusel topping evenly across the sweet potato base, covering the surface completely.
8. Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes until the topping turns a rich golden brown and the edges become slightly crisp.
9. For a marshmallow variation, remove the casserole after 20 minutes of baking, sprinkle mini marshmallows over the top, and return to the oven for an additional 5-10 minutes until marshmallows are puffy and golden.
10. Remove from the oven and allow the casserole to rest for 5-7 minutes, which helps the dish set and makes serving easier.

Notes

• Swap white sugar for coconut sugar or maple syrup to create a more natural sweetness and lower glycemic index.
• Consider using dairy-free milk and vegan butter alternatives to make this recipe suitable for plant-based diets.
• Roast sweet potatoes instead of boiling to enhance their natural caramelized flavor and concentrate their sweetness.
• Top with crushed graham crackers or gluten-free oats for a crunchy alternative to traditional streusel if you have gluten sensitivities.

• Prep Time: 25 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Dinner, Appetizer, Snacks, Desserts
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 8
• Calories: 321
• Sugar: 23 g
• Sodium: 134 mg
• Fat: 10 g
• Saturated Fat: 6 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 52 g
• Fiber: 5 g
• Protein: 3 g
• Cholesterol: 37 mg