If you’re searching for the ultimate crowd-pleaser at your next gathering, look no further than the Southern Sweet Potato Casserole. This delightful dish, synonymous with comfort and warmth, is a staple at holiday feasts and family dinners. The creamy mashed sweet potatoes form the perfect base, infused with just the right amount of sweetness and spices to tantalize your taste buds. Topped with a crumble made from butter, brown sugar, and pecans, each bite offers a harmony of textures and flavors that is simply unforgettable.

The beauty of this Southern Sweet Potato Casserole lies not just in its flavor but also in its simplicity. With a few basic ingredients and straightforward steps, you can create a dish that looks and tastes like it took all day to prepare. Whether it’s Thanksgiving dinner or a cozy Sunday meal, this casserole checks all the boxes—rich and velvety with a crunchy topping that makes it a star on any table. It’s an excellent option for those looking to impress guests without spending hours in the kitchen, allowing you to enjoy more time with loved ones.

What’s more, this recipe is perfect for vegetarians and appeals to a wide audience. The creamy sweet potatoes provide a nutritious foundation, while the pecan topping adds a delightful crunch and nuttiness. Get ready to wow your guests with this easy yet spectacular dish that is sure to become a tradition in your home!

Why You’ll Love This Southern Sweet Potato Casserole

Unmatched Flavor: The combination of sweet potatoes and spices creates a rich, sweet, and creamy base.
Crispy Topping: The buttery, brown sugar pecan crumble adds a delightful crunch that contrasts beautifully with the smooth sweet potatoes.
Easy Preparation: Simple steps make this casserole a breeze to prepare, allowing you to focus on other dishes.
Perfect for Gatherings: This dish serves 10, making it an ideal side for family dinners or holiday feasts.
Vegetarian-Friendly: This recipe easily fits vegetarian diets, providing a fulfilling and hearty side option.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before embarking on your Southern Sweet Potato Casserole journey, it’s essential to prepare your kitchen and gather the necessary tools. Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it’s hot and ready for your casserole. Make sure to have a large mixing bowl handy to combine the sweet potatoes with the other ingredients. You’ll also need a 9×13-inch baking dish that has been greased to prevent sticking and make for easy serving. For the topping, a separate mixing bowl is required to combine the flour, brown sugar, and pecans before adding the melted butter to create that delicious crumble.

Next, consider the equipment you might need to expedite the process. A fork or potato masher will work wonders to ensure your sweet potatoes are smoothly mashed, while measuring cups and spoons will help you precisely measure out your ingredients. Don’t forget to keep a kitchen timer close by so you can keep track of the baking times easily. Once your ingredients are prepped and your tools are at the ready, you’ll be well on your way to creating this incredible casserole.

Ingredients

3 cups mashed sweet potatoes
4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
1/3 cup brown sugar
1/4 cup milk
1 large egg, beaten
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/3 cup all-purpose flour
1/3 cup brown sugar (for topping)
1 cup chopped pecans
3 tablespoons melted butter

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This initial step will prepare your oven for the perfectly baked casserole.

Step 2: Prepare the Sweet Potatoes

Next, you’ll want to bake the sweet potatoes until they are fork-tender; this typically takes about 45 to 60 minutes. Once cooked, peel off the skins and place the potatoes in a bowl. Using a fork or masher, mash the sweet potatoes until smooth and creamy.

Step 3: Combine Casserole Ingredients

In your large bowl with the mashed sweet potatoes, mix in the softened butter, brown sugar, milk, beaten egg, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and salt. Stir everything together well to create a delectable flavor base.

Step 4: Transfer to Baking Dish

Once your sweet potato mixture is ready, transfer it into the greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread the mixture evenly to ensure an even bake throughout.

Step 5: Make the Topping

In a separate bowl, mix together the flour, brown sugar, and chopped pecans. Pour in the melted butter and stir until it becomes crumbly. This mixture will provide a lovely crunchy topping for your casserole.

Step 6: Assemble and Bake

Evenly sprinkle the topping over the sweet potato mixture in the baking dish. Bake the casserole uncovered for about 30 to 35 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the casserole is heated through.

Step 7: Let It Rest

Once baked, allow your casserole to rest for 10 minutes before serving. This waiting time helps the casserole set and makes for easier serving.

Variations

Protein: Try adding crumbled bacon or sausage to the sweet potato mix for a savory twist.
Vegetables: Incorporate chopped spinach or kale for added nutrition and color.
Spices: Experiment with nutmeg or allspice for a different warm-spice flavor combination.

Cooking Notes

Ensure your sweet potatoes are fully cooked through before mashing; this helps achieve a smooth consistency.
For a dairy-free version, substitute the butter and milk with plant-based alternatives.

Serving Suggestions

Pair this casserole with roasted meats like turkey or ham for a complete holiday meal.
Serve with a fresh green salad to balance the richness of the casserole.

Tips

Make ahead: You can prepare the sweet potato mixture a day prior and refrigerate it until ready to bake.
Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days.

Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 60 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes

Nutritional Information

Calories: 320 per serving
Protein: 5g
Sodium: 150mg

FAQs

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the sweet potato mixture the day before and cover it in the fridge. Just pop it in the oven when you’re ready!

What can I substitute for pecans?

If you don’t have pecans, walnuts or almonds make excellent substitutes.

Can I use canned sweet potatoes?

While fresh are recommended for optimal flavor, canned sweet potatoes can be used in a pinch. Just drain and mash them before using.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

This recipe is not gluten-free due to the all-purpose flour. However, you can use a gluten-free flour blend as a substitute.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Southern Sweet Potato Casserole is a true testament to comfort food made simple. Its combination of smooth, creamy sweet potatoes topped with a crunchy pecan crumble is sure to impress anyone who tries it. This recipe brings together familiar flavors with a twist, making it an ideal dish for every occasion, from holiday feasts to weeknight dinners. Don’t hesitate to get creative with your variations to suit your taste and dietary needs. We encourage you to share your results and thoughts in the comments below, and we can’t wait for you to experience this mouthwatering dish!