Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecan Crumble

This Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecan Crumble is a comforting and flavorful dish that combines the natural sweetness of mashed sweet potatoes with a rich, buttery pecan topping. Perfect for holidays or family gatherings, this casserole is a crowd-pleasing side that adds warmth and texture to any meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This casserole strikes the perfect balance between sweet and savory. The creamy, smooth sweet potatoes are lightly sweetened and spiced, while the pecan crumble adds a delightful crunch and nutty finish. It’s an ideal dish for Thanksgiving or any festive occasion, and can even be made ahead to save time. Unlike traditional marshmallow-topped versions, this recipe offers a more refined, homemade flavor.

ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the sweet potato base:

• Sweet potatoes

• Brown sugar

• Eggs

• Milk

• Unsalted butter

• Vanilla extract

• Ground cinnamon

• Salt

For the pecan crumble topping:

• All-purpose flour

• Brown sugar

• Unsalted butter

• Chopped pecans

directions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

2. Peel and chop the sweet potatoes, then boil until tender. Drain and mash them in a large mixing bowl.

3. Add brown sugar, eggs, milk, melted butter, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt to the mashed sweet potatoes. Mix until smooth and well combined.

4. Transfer the sweet potato mixture into a greased baking dish and spread evenly.

5. In a separate bowl, prepare the pecan crumble by mixing flour, brown sugar, and melted butter until crumbly. Stir in chopped pecans.

6. Sprinkle the crumble mixture evenly over the sweet potato base.

7. Bake in the preheated oven for about 30–35 minutes, or until the topping is golden and slightly crisp.

8. Let cool for a few minutes before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves approximately 8–10 people.
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 35 minutes
Total time: 55 minutes

Variations

• Add marshmallows: For a more classic touch, top the casserole with mini marshmallows instead of the pecan crumble.

• Use maple syrup: Substitute part of the brown sugar with pure maple syrup for a deeper, more complex sweetness.

• Make it dairy-free: Use plant-based milk and dairy-free butter alternatives.

• Add spices: Enhance the flavor with nutmeg, cloves, or ginger for a warmer profile.

• Nut-free version: Replace pecans with oats or a seed-based crumble for those with nut allergies.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
To reheat, place individual portions in the microwave for 1–2 minutes, or warm the entire dish in a 325°F oven for 15–20 minutes, covered with foil to prevent the topping from burning.

FAQs

What is the best type of sweet potato to use?

Orange-fleshed varieties like Beauregard or Garnet are ideal due to their natural sweetness and smooth texture.

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the sweet potato base and topping separately up to two days in advance. Assemble and bake when ready to serve.

Can I freeze sweet potato casserole?

Yes, it freezes well. Assemble the casserole without baking, cover tightly, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking.

How do I keep the pecan topping crunchy?

Avoid covering the dish tightly while baking or reheating, as steam can soften the crumble. Bake uncovered for the last few minutes to re-crisp if needed.

Can I reduce the sugar in the recipe?

Yes, you can reduce the amount of brown sugar in both the base and the topping to suit your taste without compromising texture.

Is this dish gluten-free?

The standard recipe is not gluten-free due to the flour in the topping. Use a gluten-free flour substitute to make it suitable for a gluten-free diet.

Can I use canned sweet potatoes?

Yes, canned sweet potatoes can be used in a pinch, but be sure to drain and mash them thoroughly for the best consistency.

What can I use instead of pecans?

Walnuts or almonds make good substitutes, or you can use a seed-based topping like pumpkin or sunflower seeds for a nut-free version.

Can I add fruit to the casserole?

Yes, incorporating diced apples or dried cranberries into the sweet potato mixture adds a fruity twist.

Is it better to boil or bake sweet potatoes for this recipe?

Boiling is quicker and makes them easier to mash, while baking concentrates the sweetness. Both methods work well depending on preference.

Conclusion

Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecan Crumble is a timeless side dish that brings comfort, flavor, and elegance to any meal. Whether you serve it for a holiday dinner or a cozy weeknight, its creamy base and crunchy topping are sure to satisfy. With flexible ingredients and make-ahead options, this casserole is both practical and indulgent.