There’s something undeniably heartwarming about a sweet potato casserole, especially when its sweet, nutty aroma fills the kitchen. With its creamy mashed sweet potato base, crunchy pecan topping, and a hint of cinnamon, this dish is pure holiday perfection.

I’ve been making this casserole for years, and it’s become a cherished family tradition. Whether it’s for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or just a cozy Sunday dinner, this recipe never fails to impress. Ready to make this crowd-pleasing favorite your own? Let’s dive in.

Why You’ll Love This Sweet Potato Casserole

Get ready to fall in love with the ultimate holiday side dish. This sweet potato casserole is more than just a recipe – it’s a celebration of flavor, texture, and tradition.

First off, it’s incredibly easy to make. With just a handful of ingredients and straightforward steps, even novice cooks can create a dish that tastes like it took hours of effort.

The flavor combination is unbeatable. The naturally sweet potatoes, warm spices, and buttery pecans come together in perfect harmony, creating a dish that feels indulgent without being overly heavy.

Let’s not forget the texture. The creamy base pairs beautifully with the crunchy topping, offering the best of both worlds in every bite. It’s like dessert masquerading as a side dish!

And finally, this recipe is endlessly adaptable. Whether you prefer a marshmallow topping, a nut-free version, or a touch of savory flavor, there’s a variation for everyone.

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of this casserole lies in its simplicity, but each ingredient plays a crucial role in making the dish shine. Here’s what you’ll need:

Sweet Potatoes: The star of the show! Choose medium-sized, orange-fleshed sweet potatoes like Beauregard or Jewel for the best flavor and texture. These varieties roast beautifully and mash into a smooth, creamy base.
Brown Sugar: Adds a deep, caramel-like sweetness to both the filling and the topping. Feel free to use light or dark brown sugar, depending on your preference.
Butter: Both unsalted and salted work here, but be sure to adjust the salt if you opt for the latter. Butter brings richness to the filling and helps create that irresistible topping.
Eggs: These help bind the filling together, giving it structure without making it too dense.
Cinnamon and Nutmeg: Warm spices that complement the natural sweetness of the potatoes. A dash of nutmeg adds just the right amount of holiday flair.
Pecans: For the topping, they add crunch and a nutty flavor that’s hard to beat. Chop them coarsely for the perfect texture.
Marshmallows (optional): If you love a sweeter topping, mini marshmallows create a golden, gooey layer when baked.

You’ll also need a large mixing bowl, a potato masher or electric mixer, and a baking dish (9x13 is ideal).

How To Make This Sweet Potato Casserole

Making this casserole is a breeze, and the results are guaranteed to impress. Here’s how to do it:

Cook the Sweet Potatoes
Start by peeling and cutting your sweet potatoes into chunks. Boil them in a large pot of salted water for about 20 minutes, or until they’re fork-tender. Drain well and return to the pot.
Mash the Potatoes
Add butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and a pinch of salt to the potatoes. Use a masher or an electric mixer to mash everything together until smooth. Let the mixture cool slightly, then mix in the eggs.
Prepare the Topping
In a small bowl, combine brown sugar, melted butter, and chopped pecans. This mixture will create that irresistible crunchy topping. If using marshmallows, set them aside for now.
Assemble the Casserole
Spread the sweet potato mixture evenly into a greased baking dish. Sprinkle the pecan topping over the top, or layer on marshmallows if you prefer.
Bake to Perfection
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the casserole for 25-30 minutes, or until the topping is golden and the filling is hot and bubbly. If using marshmallows, add them during the last 10 minutes to avoid over-browning.

The result? A casserole so delicious it’ll steal the spotlight at any gathering.

Storage Options

If you have leftovers (lucky you!), here’s how to store them:

In the Refrigerator: Transfer the casserole to an airtight container or cover the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap. It’ll stay fresh for up to 4 days.
In the Freezer: For longer storage, wrap individual portions in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to 3 months.

To Reheat: Warm refrigerated portions in the microwave for 1-2 minutes, or cover the entire dish with foil and bake at 325°F until heated through. If frozen, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about this recipe is how adaptable it is. Here are some fun ways to switch it up:

Nut-Free: Swap the pecans for crushed graham crackers or toasted oats for a similar crunch.
Marshmallow Topping: Love that classic, gooey layer? Skip the pecans and cover the casserole with mini marshmallows instead.
Savory Twist: Add a pinch of cayenne or paprika to the filling for a touch of heat, and top with breadcrumbs mixed with Parmesan.
Healthier Option: Use coconut sugar instead of brown sugar, and swap some of the butter for Greek yogurt.
Vegan-Friendly: Replace butter with vegan butter, eggs with flaxseed meal, and marshmallows with a plant-based brand.

Feel free to get creative – the possibilities are endless!

Sweet potato casserole is a dish that brings people together, filling your home with warmth and laughter. Whether it’s your first time making it or your fiftieth, this recipe is sure to become a cherished tradition. Happy cooking!