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Classic Southern Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecan Topping

A close-up of a rich, orange slice of southern sweet potato casserole topped with a crunchy pecan streusel.

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Make this traditional Southern Sweet Potato Casserole featuring a creamy, sweet base and a crunchy pecan topping. It is a perfect, comforting side dish for holidays like Thanksgiving.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 cups cooked and mashed sweet potatoes (about 4 large)
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
  • 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup packed light brown sugar (for topping)
  • 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/3 cup (about 5 tablespoons) unsalted butter, melted (for topping)
  • 1 cup chopped pecans

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
  2. In a large bowl, combine the mashed sweet potatoes, granulated sugar, 1/2 cup melted butter, eggs, milk, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Mix until the filling is smooth and well combined.
  3. Pour the sweet potato mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish.
  4. Prepare the pecan topping: In a separate medium bowl, mix the brown sugar, flour, and 1/3 cup melted butter until crumbly. Stir in the chopped pecans until they are coated.
  5. Spread the pecan topping evenly over the sweet potato mixture in the baking dish.
  6. Bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the casserole is heated through.
  7. Let the casserole cool for 10 minutes before serving. This recipe is a great alternative to complicated meal planning for your holiday table.

Notes

  • You can prepare the sweet potato mash ahead of time. Store it covered in the refrigerator for up to two days before assembling and baking.
  • If you prefer a marshmallow topping instead of pecans, skip the topping ingredients and top the casserole with 2 cups of miniature marshmallows during the last 10 minutes of baking.
  • For a richer flavor, substitute 1/4 cup of the granulated sugar with 1/4 cup of maple syrup.

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