There’s something truly magical about the comforting blend of sweet and nutty flavors in this Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecan Streusel Topping Recipe. It combines the creamy, velvety sweetness of perfectly mashed sweet potatoes with a crunchy, buttery pecan streusel that adds irresistible texture and depth. This dish has become a cherished classic for holidays, family dinners, or any occasion when you want to bring warmth and joy to the table. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or trying your hand at casseroles for the first time, this recipe promises a deliciously memorable experience.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is both simple and essential to make this Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecan Streusel Topping Recipe shine. Each item plays a key role in building layers of flavor, texture, or that perfect golden color that makes this dish so appealing.
- ½ cup light brown sugar: Adds sweetness and moisture with a hint of molasses depth.
- ⅓ cup all-purpose flour: Helps bind the streusel topping together for a crumbly finish.
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Brings warmth and subtle spice to the topping.
- ¼ cup salted butter, softened: Gives richness and helps achieve that tender, buttery texture.
- ½ cup chopped pecans: Provides crunch and a nutty flavor contrast that’s simply irresistible.
- 5 prebaked sweet potatoes (about 3 cups mashed): The star of the dish with creamy sweetness and vibrant color.
- ½ cup granulated sugar: Enhances the natural sweetness of the sweet potatoes.
- 2 large eggs: Adds structure and richness to the filling.
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, slightly melted: Offers a mellow, buttery note in the sweet potato mixture.
- ⅓ cup evaporated milk (or milk/cream): Makes the filling smooth and creamy without being too heavy.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Elevates the flavor with a lovely aromatic sweetness.
- ½ teaspoon Kosher salt: Balances sweetness and heightens the other flavors.
- 1½ cups mini marshmallows: Optional but adds a delightful gooey topping when broiled.
How to Make Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecan Streusel Topping Recipe
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by heating your oven to 325°F. This moderate temperature allows the casserole to cook through evenly while giving the pecan streusel topping a chance to develop that beautiful golden-brown color without burning.
Step 2: Make the Brown Sugar Topping
In a medium bowl, combine the light brown sugar, all-purpose flour, cinnamon, and softened salted butter. Use a fork or pastry cutter to mix until the mixture becomes crumbly and well blended. Stir in the chopped pecans, which will add that essential crunch and nutty aroma. Set this topping aside for now—it’s going to shine later on.
Step 3: Prepare the Sweet Potato Filling
Take your prebaked sweet potatoes and scoop out the soft flesh into a large bowl. Mash them until smooth and creamy; this base is what makes the casserole exceptionally luscious. Next, add granulated sugar, the eggs, melted unsalted butter, evaporated milk, vanilla extract, and kosher salt. Mix everything together until the filling is velvety and completely combined. This mixture balances sweetness and creaminess perfectly.
Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking, then spread your sweet potato filling evenly across the bottom. This creates a smooth, uniform layer that will hold the topping in place and cook nicely in the oven. If you desire a thicker casserole, feel free to use an 11×8-inch dish instead.
Step 5: Add the Topping and Bake
Sprinkle your prepared pecan streusel topping generously over the sweet potato layer. Pop the dish into the oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the topping looks lightly browned and caramelized. This step really brings out the complex flavors from the cinnamon, brown sugar, and pecans.
Step 6: Add Marshmallows (Optional)
If you love the classic sweet potato casserole finish, sprinkle mini marshmallows over the top and place the dish under the broiler for about 2 minutes. Watch closely as the marshmallows melt and turn a gorgeous golden brown, becoming gooey and irresistible. This final touch adds a perfect contrast of soft sweetness to the crunchy streusel.
How to Serve Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecan Streusel Topping Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of extra toasted pecans or a light dusting of cinnamon adds a visually appealing finish and a subtle flavor boost. Fresh orange zest can also add a bright, citrusy note that cuts through the richness beautifully.
Side Dishes
This casserole pairs wonderfully with roasted turkey or glazed ham, making it an ideal side for holiday feasts. You can also enjoy it alongside crisp green vegetables like sautéed Brussels sprouts or a simple leafy salad to balance the richness.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve individual portions in ramekins topped with a pecan half and a toasted marshmallow. Alternatively, layer the casserole in clear glass dishes or trifles for a stunning visual display of creamy sweet potatoes and crunchy topping layers.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftover sweet potato casserole in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. This will keep the flavors fresh and the topping from becoming soggy. Reheat gently just before serving to revive the textures.
Freezing
You can freeze the casserole either before or after baking. If freezing raw, assemble the casserole then wrap tightly with plastic wrap and foil, freezing for up to 2 months. When ready to bake, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed. If freezing cooked, cool completely, then freeze in airtight containers for best results.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the casserole in a preheated oven at 325°F until heated through, usually 20 to 25 minutes. If you’ve already added marshmallows, you might want to add fresh marshmallows and broil briefly again for that perfect golden finish.
FAQs
Can I use canned sweet potatoes instead of prebaking my own?
While canned sweet potatoes can work in a pinch, fresh prebaked sweet potatoes typically provide a better texture and flavor depth. If using canned, make sure they are well mashed and drained to avoid excess moisture.
Is it necessary to add marshmallows on top?
Not at all! The pecan streusel topping is delicious on its own and adds plenty of texture and sweetness. Marshmallows are a traditional touch but completely optional based on your preference.
Can this casserole be made gluten-free?
Yes! Simply substitute the all-purpose flour in the streusel topping with a gluten-free flour blend. Be sure to check that other ingredients like brown sugar and milk alternatives are also gluten-free.
How far ahead can I prepare the casserole?
You can assemble the casserole (without marshmallows) and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. This makes it perfect for prepping the day before a big meal and saving yourself some time.
Can I add other nuts or seeds instead of pecans?
Sure! Walnuts or sliced almonds can be great substitutes if you want to switch things up. Just keep in mind the unique flavor of pecans is part of what makes this topping special.
Final Thoughts
Making this Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecan Streusel Topping Recipe is like creating a warm hug in a dish. It’s a perfect blend of creamy, sweet, and crunchy elements that so many people love. Whether you’re making it for a family gathering or just because you want something special, this recipe will quickly become a beloved favorite. Give it a try—you won’t regret it!
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Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecan Streusel Topping Recipe
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
Description
This Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecan Streusel Topping is a classic comforting dish perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy family meals. The creamy mashed sweet potatoes are enhanced with brown sugar and warm spices, then topped with a crunchy, buttery pecan streusel and gooey mini marshmallows, creating the perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors.
Ingredients
Pecan Streusel Topping
- ½ cup light brown sugar
- ⅓ cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ cup salted butter, softened
- ½ cup chopped pecans
Sweet Potato Filling
- 5 prebaked sweet potatoes (about 3 cups mashed)
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, slightly melted
- ⅓ cup evaporated milk (or milk/cream)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon Kosher salt
- 1½ cups mini marshmallows (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F to ensure it reaches the right temperature for gentle baking of the casserole.
- Make the Brown Sugar Topping: In a medium bowl, combine the brown sugar, all-purpose flour, ground cinnamon, and softened salted butter. Use a fork or pastry cutter to mix until the mixture becomes crumbly. Stir in the chopped pecans and set this topping aside.
- Prepare the Sweet Potato Filling: Scoop out the flesh from the prebaked sweet potatoes into a large mixing bowl. Mash thoroughly until smooth. Add the granulated sugar, eggs, melted unsalted butter, evaporated milk, vanilla extract, and Kosher salt to the mashed sweet potatoes. Mix until the ingredients are fully incorporated and the texture is creamy and well combined.
- Assemble the Casserole: Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or an 11×8-inch dish for a thicker casserole. Spread the sweet potato mixture evenly across the dish.
- Add the Topping: Evenly sprinkle the prepared pecan streusel topping over the sweet potato layer to cover the surface completely.
- Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the topping is lightly browned and caramelized, indicating the flavors have melded beautifully.
- Add Marshmallows (Optional): If adding marshmallows, sprinkle the mini marshmallows evenly on top of the baked casserole. Broil in the oven for about 2 minutes or until the marshmallows turn golden brown and gooey. Keep a close watch during broiling to prevent burning.
Notes
- Prebaking sweet potatoes ahead of time saves cooking time when assembling the casserole.
- Adjust sugar quantity depending on your desired sweetness level.
- Use evaporated milk for extra creaminess, or substitute with regular milk or cream.
- Broil marshmallows carefully as they can brown very quickly.
- For a thicker casserole, use a smaller baking dish, but baking times might vary slightly.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for 3-4 days and reheated in the oven to retain texture.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
