There's nothing quite like the comforting warmth of Paula Deen's Sweet Potato Casserole gracing your holiday table. With its creamy sweet potato base and irresistibly crunchy pecan topping, this dish is the perfect blend of sweet and savory, making it a must-have side for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any festive gathering.

I first discovered this recipe while searching for a way to elevate our holiday menu, and it quickly became a family favorite. The rich flavors and heavenly texture had everyone going back for seconds—and asking for the recipe. Let me show you how easy it is to recreate this classic Southern delight in your own kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Paula Deen Sweet Potato Casserole

Get ready to fall in love with a dish that transforms humble sweet potatoes into a crowd-pleasing masterpiece. Paula Deen's Sweet Potato Casserole is more than just a side dish—it's a celebration of flavor, texture, and nostalgia.

First, the combination of creamy mashed sweet potatoes and the crispy pecan topping creates a delightful contrast in every bite. The buttery sweetness of the base pairs perfectly with the nutty crunch, making it a dessert-like treat that still works as a savory side.

Next, this recipe is wonderfully simple to make. Using pantry staples like brown sugar, butter, and eggs, you can whip this up without a trip to a specialty store. And with just a few easy steps, it's practically foolproof—even for novice cooks.

This casserole is also incredibly versatile. Whether you serve it alongside turkey, ham, or even as a standalone dish, it fits seamlessly into any holiday menu. Plus, it's a hit with kids and adults alike, ensuring smiles all around the table.

Lastly, it's make-ahead friendly. You can prepare the casserole a day or two in advance, giving you more time to focus on other dishes (or just enjoy the holiday magic!).

Ingredients Notes

The magic of Paula Deen's Sweet Potato Casserole lies in its straightforward ingredients, each contributing to the dish's signature flavor and texture. Here's a closer look at what you'll need and why it matters.

Sweet Potatoes: These form the heart of the dish. Opt for fresh, medium-sized sweet potatoes with smooth, unblemished skins for the best results. Their natural sweetness intensifies during baking, creating a luscious base.
Butter: This rich, creamy ingredient is used in both the filling and the topping. Go for unsalted butter to better control the salt levels in the dish.
Brown Sugar: Adds a warm, caramel-like sweetness that complements the natural flavors of the sweet potatoes. Use light brown sugar for a milder sweetness, or dark brown sugar for deeper flavor.
Eggs: These act as a binder in the casserole, giving it a light, custard-like texture.
Vanilla Extract: A splash of vanilla enhances the sweetness and adds depth to the dish.
Pecans: The stars of the topping! Use fresh, chopped pecans for maximum crunch and flavor. Toast them lightly before adding for an extra layer of nuttiness.
Flour: Helps bind the topping ingredients together, creating that iconic crumble.
Marshmallows (optional): If you're feeling adventurous, you can add mini marshmallows on top for a gooey, sweet twist.

Special equipment? A sturdy 9x13-inch baking dish is essential for even baking, and a potato masher or electric mixer ensures a perfectly smooth filling.

How to Make This Paula Deen Sweet Potato Casserole

Creating Paula Deen's Sweet Potato Casserole is a joyful process that fills your kitchen with the warm aroma of butter and sweet potatoes. Let me guide you step by step.

Prepare the Sweet Potatoes
Start by peeling and boiling about 4-5 large sweet potatoes until they're fork-tender. Drain them well to remove any excess water—this is key to achieving a creamy consistency.
Make the Sweet Potato Base
In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed sweet potatoes with ½ cup butter, ½ cup brown sugar, 2 beaten eggs, and a splash of vanilla extract. Mix until smooth and well combined, then pour the mixture into a greased 9x13-inch baking dish.
Prepare the Pecan Topping
In another bowl, mix together 1 cup brown sugar, ⅓ cup flour, and 1 cup chopped pecans. Cut in ⅓ cup butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Sprinkle this evenly over the sweet potato layer.
Bake the Casserole
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the sweet potato mixture is bubbling around the edges.
Optional Marshmallow Topping
For a festive touch, scatter mini marshmallows on top during the last 5 minutes of baking. Watch closely to prevent them from burning.

The result? A beautifully caramelized, golden casserole that's sure to steal the spotlight on your holiday table.

Storage Options

Paula Deen's Sweet Potato Casserole stores beautifully, making it a fantastic make-ahead option. Here’s how to keep it fresh:

Refrigerate: Transfer leftovers to an airtight container or cover the baking dish with plastic wrap. It will stay fresh in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
Freeze: For longer storage, wrap the casserole tightly in aluminum foil and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheat: Warm individual portions in the microwave, or cover the entire casserole dish with foil and reheat in a 350°F oven until heated through.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the joys of this recipe is its adaptability. Here are some fun ways to make it your own:

Nut-Free Option: Swap the pecans for a streusel topping made with oats and cinnamon for a crunchy, nut-free alternative.
Vegan Version: Replace butter with plant-based alternatives, use flax eggs, and substitute coconut cream for the custard-like texture.
Spiced Sweet Potatoes: Add a teaspoon of ground cinnamon, nutmeg, or allspice to the sweet potato mixture for a warm, spiced flavor.
Healthier Take: Use less sugar in the filling and topping, and consider swapping out some of the butter for unsweetened applesauce.
Mini Casseroles: Make individual portions in ramekins for a fun, personalized twist.

With so many options, this recipe invites creativity while remaining effortlessly delicious.

Whether it's your first time trying Paula Deen's Sweet Potato Casserole or you're a seasoned fan, this recipe is sure to become a cherished part of your holiday traditions. Give it a try, and watch as your family and friends light up with delight!