Sweet Potato Casserole You Need To Make
Sweet potatoes are one of those ingredients that are naturally sweet, creamy, and nutrient-packed. Add a little butter, a splash of cream, warm spices… and suddenly you’ve got something worthy of a celebration.
Sweet potato casserole may feel like an old family tradition, but its origins are surprisingly modern. The earliest versions appeared in the early 1900s, when sweet potatoes became more widely accessible and cooks were searching for ways to incorporate them into celebratory meals.
Over time, the dish evolved—first with marshmallows (thanks to an early marketing campaign!), and later with the beloved pecan topping many people prefer today. Its comforting blend of sweet and savory flavors quickly earned it a permanent place at holiday gatherings.
But what truly elevates sweet potato casserole is the topping. Some folks swear by marshmallows, others insist on pecans, and a few daring souls do both.
INGREDIENTS YOU WILL NEED….
FOR THE SWEET POTATO FILLING….
- sweet potatoes (about 3 lbs)
- unsalted butter
- brown sugar
- milk or heavy cream
- eggs
- vanilla extract
- cinnamon
- Pinch of nutmeg
- Pinch of salt
FOR THE PECAN STREUSEL TOPPING…
- pecans
- brown sugar
- all-purpose flour
- butter
- Optional: pinch of cinnamon
This casserole is wonderfully prep-friendly, which makes it a holiday hero.
On Thanksgiving, sweet potato casserole serves as a comforting contrast to savory staples like turkey, stuffing, and gravy. Its creamy texture and warm flavor add balance to the meal, while the crunchy topping makes it feel special enough for the occasion.
It’s often the side dish people go back for—just a little more before dessert, just one more spoonful before seconds are finished.
Whether you’re making it for Thanksgiving or just because your soul needs comfort food, it’s a recipe that delivers every time.
Scroll down for all complete recipe….
Ingredients
- 3-4 large sweet potatoes (about 3 lbs)
- 4 tbsps melted unsalted butter
- 1/3 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup milk or heavy cream
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 tsp cinnamon
- pinch of nutmeg
- pinch of salt
For the Pecan Streusel Topping
- 1 cup chopped pecans
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
- 4 tbsps melted butter
- Optional: pinch of cinnamon
Instructions
- Roast or boil—both work fine. Roasting brings out deeper flavor, but boiling is faster. Once they’re tender, scoop out the flesh and let it cool slightly.
- Mash the potatoes until smooth. Stir in butter, brown sugar, milk, eggs, vanilla, spices, and salt. Mix until creamy and well combined. Pour into a greased baking dish.
- In a bowl, combine pecans, brown sugar, flour, and melted butter. Stir until clumps form—the good kind.
- Scatter the topping evenly over the casserole and bake at 350°F for 30–35 minutes, until the center is set and the top is crisp and golden.