There’s nothing like the comforting aroma of sweet potatoes and pecans baking together to make your kitchen feel like the coziest spot on earth. This Sweet Potato Casserole with Butter Pecan Crumble Topping is the ultimate holiday side dish that’s decadent enough to double as dessert.

I first discovered this recipe while looking for a twist on the classic marshmallow-topped version. After one bite of the buttery pecan crumble topping paired with creamy sweet potatoes, I knew this dish was here to stay. Let’s dive in and see why this casserole is the perfect addition to your festive spread.

Why You'll Love This Sweet Potato Casserole

Get ready to elevate your holiday table with a casserole that will steal the show. This isn’t your average sweet potato dish—it’s a decadent blend of sweet, savory, and nutty perfection.

First, the butter pecan crumble topping is the star of the show. The combination of crunchy pecans, rich butter, and brown sugar creates a topping that’s golden and irresistibly crisp. Unlike marshmallows, this topping adds depth and texture without being overly sweet.

Next, the creamy sweet potato base is a game-changer. With just the right balance of sweetness and spice, it’s smooth, rich, and packed with flavor. A hint of vanilla and cinnamon takes it to the next level, making every bite feel like a warm hug.

This recipe is also a crowd-pleaser for its versatility. It’s easy to make ahead, perfect for potlucks, and a guaranteed hit with both kids and adults. Plus, it pairs beautifully with turkey, ham, or even a vegetarian main.

Finally, you’ll love how simple it is to prepare. With a few pantry staples and fresh ingredients, you can whip up a dish that looks and tastes like you spent hours perfecting it.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of this casserole lies in its thoughtfully chosen ingredients. Each one contributes to the dish’s perfect balance of flavors and textures.

Sweet Potatoes: The star ingredient! Choose medium-sized sweet potatoes that are firm and free of blemishes. These provide the naturally sweet and creamy foundation for the casserole.
Butter: Unsalted butter is key for controlling the saltiness. You’ll use it in both the sweet potato mixture and the pecan crumble, where it adds a rich, indulgent flavor.
Brown Sugar: Adds just the right amount of sweetness to the topping and sweet potato mixture. For a deeper molasses flavor, opt for dark brown sugar.
Pecans: These provide the essential crunch for the topping. Toasting them briefly before mixing enhances their nutty aroma and flavor.
Vanilla Extract and Cinnamon: Both ingredients bring warmth and depth to the casserole, enhancing the natural sweetness of the sweet potatoes. Don’t skip these—they’re what make the dish sing!
Flour: Used in the crumble topping to bind the butter and sugar, creating that perfect, crispy texture.

Special Equipment: You’ll need a potato masher or electric mixer to achieve the smooth sweet potato base and a 9x13-inch baking dish for assembling and baking the casserole.

How to Make This Sweet Potato Casserole

Creating this irresistible casserole is easier than you might think. Let me guide you through each step.

Step 1: Prepare the Sweet Potatoes

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F. While the oven heats, peel and chop about 4 large sweet potatoes into chunks. Boil them in a large pot of salted water until fork-tender, about 15-20 minutes. Drain well and mash them while they’re still warm.

Step 2: Mix the Sweet Potato Base

In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed sweet potatoes with butter, brown sugar, eggs, milk, vanilla extract, and a pinch of cinnamon. Use an electric mixer for an ultra-smooth texture, or mash by hand if you prefer a rustic feel. Spread the mixture evenly into a greased 9x13-inch baking dish.

Step 3: Make the Butter Pecan Crumble

In a medium bowl, combine chopped pecans, flour, brown sugar, and a generous amount of melted butter. Stir until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. For an extra layer of flavor, add a pinch of salt to balance the sweetness.

Step 4: Assemble and Bake

Sprinkle the crumble topping generously over the sweet potato mixture, ensuring even coverage. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and slightly crisp. Your kitchen will smell amazing!

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Let the casserole cool for 5-10 minutes before serving. This gives the topping a chance to set, ensuring every scoop is a perfect mix of creamy sweet potatoes and crunchy pecans.

Storage Options

This casserole is as convenient as it is delicious. Here’s how to store it for later enjoyment.

Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Simply reheat individual portions in the microwave or warm the entire dish in the oven at 350°F for 15-20 minutes.
Freezer: You can freeze the assembled but unbaked casserole for up to 2 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. When ready to bake, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed.
Make-Ahead: Prepare the casserole up to the point of baking, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Add 5-10 extra minutes to the baking time if starting from a cold dish.

Variations and Substitutions

This recipe is endlessly adaptable, so feel free to make it your own.

Nut-Free Option: Swap the pecans for rolled oats or crushed graham crackers for a crunchy, nut-free topping.
Gluten-Free Version: Use almond flour or gluten-free all-purpose flour in the topping. The results are just as delicious!
Healthier Twist: Reduce the sugar by half and use unsweetened almond milk in the sweet potato base for a lighter version.
Extra Decadent: Add a layer of mini marshmallows on top of the pecan crumble during the last 5 minutes of baking for the best of both worlds.
Spice It Up: Add a touch of nutmeg or ground ginger to the sweet potato mixture for a warm, spicy kick.

No matter how you make it, this Sweet Potato Casserole with Butter Pecan Crumble Topping is sure to become a family favorite. Try it this holiday season and see for yourself!