Sweet Potato Casserole With Butter Pecan Crumble Topping Recipe

There's nothing quite like a warm, comforting Sweet Potato Casserole with Butter Pecan Crumble Topping to complete a holiday feast or elevate a cozy weeknight dinner. The creamy sweet potatoes, perfectly mashed and spiced, meet a crunchy, buttery pecan topping that's simply irresistible.

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My love for this dish began during a Thanksgiving dinner years ago. My aunt had perfected the art of a sweet potato casserole, and I remember sneaking extra bites when no one was watching. Now, this recipe has become a cherished tradition in my home, loved by everyone, from kids to adults.

Why You'll Love This Sweet Potato Casserole With Butter Pecan Crumble Topping

Get ready to be obsessed with your new go-to side dish. This Sweet Potato Casserole isn't just another holiday staple – it’s an unforgettable experience with each spoonful.

First off, the contrast between the silky sweet potato base and the crunchy pecan topping is a texture lover’s dream. It’s the perfect balance of soft and crispy, sweet and nutty, making every bite simply decadent.

It's also incredibly easy to prepare. You can make it ahead of time and bake it right before serving, which makes it ideal for busy holiday gatherings. The preparation is simple enough to pull together on a weeknight yet elegant enough to wow your guests.

Even better, this casserole brings a nostalgic, homestyle flavor that's sure to win hearts. The sweet potatoes are lightly spiced with cinnamon and nutmeg, giving off those cozy, warm vibes that make the holidays feel special.

Lastly, this recipe is endlessly adaptable. Whether you’re serving a crowd or adjusting for dietary preferences, I’ll share simple ways to make this dish your own.

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of this Sweet Potato Casserole lies in the thoughtful choice of ingredients. Each one plays a vital role in delivering that unforgettable taste and texture.

The sweet potatoes are the star, and their natural sweetness shines through. Choose firm, orange-fleshed sweet potatoes for the best flavor and color. Roasting them enhances their caramelized notes, but you can also boil them if you're short on time.

Brown sugar adds a rich depth of sweetness that pairs beautifully with the buttery pecan topping. You can use light or dark brown sugar, depending on how deep a molasses flavor you want.

For the spices, a combination of ground cinnamon and nutmeg gives the sweet potatoes a warm, comforting flavor. You can also add a pinch of ground ginger or cloves if you like a bit more spice.

The butter pecan crumble topping is a game-changer. Chopped pecans bring a delightful crunch, while melted butter and flour bind everything together. A hint of vanilla extract enhances the buttery, nutty flavor, making the topping truly addictive.

You’ll need a 9x13-inch baking dish to bake the casserole. Using a ceramic or glass dish ensures even baking and makes for a beautiful presentation at the table.

How To Make This Sweet Potato Casserole With Butter Pecan Crumble Topping

Creating this indulgent casserole is surprisingly simple. Let's walk through it step by step.

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Peel and chop 3 pounds of sweet potatoes into chunks. Boil them in a large pot of salted water until they’re fork-tender, about 20-25 minutes. Drain well, ensuring you get rid of excess moisture, which could make the casserole watery.

Mash the sweet potatoes in a large mixing bowl. Add ½ cup of brown sugar, 4 tablespoons of melted butter, ½ cup of heavy cream, 2 beaten eggs, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, ½ teaspoon of ground cinnamon, and a pinch of nutmeg. Mix until smooth and creamy, making sure everything is well incorporated.

Pour the sweet potato mixture into your greased baking dish and smooth out the top. Now, let's get to the star of the show: the Butter Pecan Crumble Topping.

In a separate bowl, combine 1 cup of chopped pecans, ½ cup of all-purpose flour, ½ cup of brown sugar, and ¼ teaspoon of salt. Drizzle in 6 tablespoons of melted butter and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Use a fork to mix until the topping resembles coarse crumbs.

Sprinkle the crumble evenly over the sweet potato mixture. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the topping is golden brown and the sweet potato filling is bubbly around the edges. Let it cool for 10 minutes before serving – if you can wait that long!

Storage Options

Got leftovers? This Sweet Potato Casserole stores beautifully, so you can enjoy it for days to come.

For refrigeration, transfer any leftovers into an airtight container and store in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or use the microwave if you're in a hurry.

If you want to freeze the casserole, make sure it's completely cool. Wrap the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap and then with aluminum foil. It will keep in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

For make-ahead options, prepare the casserole up to the point of baking, then cover and refrigerate. When you're ready to serve, just pop it in the oven and bake as directed.

Variations and Substitutions

The versatility of this casserole is one of its biggest perks. You can adjust it to your taste or dietary needs with a few simple swaps.

If you prefer a less sweet casserole, reduce the brown sugar in the sweet potato mixture or omit it entirely for a more savory flavor. You could also add a dash of cayenne pepper for a spicy twist that balances the sweetness.

For a nut-free version, swap the pecans for a crunchy topping made from crushed graham crackers or oats mixed with melted butter and a touch of sugar.

Want to make it dairy-free? Use plant-based butter and coconut milk or almond milk in place of heavy cream. The flavor will be slightly different but just as delicious.

And if you’re feeding a crowd, consider doubling the recipe and using a larger baking dish. The casserole disappears quickly, so it's always a good idea to have extra on hand!

Enjoy experimenting with these ideas and make this Sweet Potato Casserole a cherished part of your culinary traditions.

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