Classic Sweet Potato Casserole – Easy & Delicious Recipe

Sweet potato casserole is a timeless and comforting dish that shines during the holidays. This classic sweet potato casserole recipe combines creamy, spiced sweet potatoes with a rich, nutty pecan topping for a deliciously indulgent side dish. Whether you’re hosting a family gathering or looking for a crowd-pleasing addition to your Thanksgiving spread, this dish is sure to impress.

Why This Classic Sweet Potato Casserole is the Ultimate Side Dish

This classic sweet potato casserole recipe stands out for its perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors. The creamy sweet potato base is seasoned with cinnamon, nutmeg, and vanilla, making it irresistibly flavorful. The crunchy pecan topping adds texture and a hint of caramelized sweetness, taking this casserole from good to great. Plus, it’s easy to prepare and can be made ahead of time, making it a stress-free option for busy holiday cooks.

Ingredients

To make this classic sweet potato casserole, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• Sweet Potatoes: The star of the dish, providing a creamy, sweet base.
• Eggs: These help bind the sweet potatoes together, giving the casserole a smooth, firm texture.
• Milk: Adds creaminess and helps achieve the right consistency.
• Brown Sugar: Sweetens the casserole while adding depth of flavor.
• Granulated Sugar: Balances the sweetness for a well-rounded flavor.
• Vanilla Extract: Enhances the sweetness and adds a warm, aromatic note.
• Butter: Provides richness and a velvety texture.
• Salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances all the flavors.
• Cinnamon and Nutmeg: Warm, comforting spices that complement the sweet potatoes.

For the topping:

• Butter: Adds richness and helps the topping come together.
• Flour: Helps create a crisp, crumbly texture.
• Brown Sugar: Adds a caramelized sweetness to the topping.
• Pecan Halves or Chopped Pecans: Provide a nutty crunch that contrasts beautifully with the smooth sweet potato.
• Salt: Enhances the flavor of the topping and balances the sweetness.

Alternative Ingredient Suggestions

• Dairy-Free Version: Use plant-based milk and dairy-free butter for a vegan-friendly alternative.
• Nut-Free: If you have nut allergies, try substituting the pecans with crushed graham crackers for a similar crunch.
• Sugar-Free: For a healthier twist, swap out the brown and granulated sugar for a sugar substitute like Stevia or Monk Fruit.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Boil the sweet potatoes in a large pot of water until they are fork-tender, about 15 minutes. Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot.
3. Add the eggs, milk, brown sugar, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, melted butter, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg to the sweet potatoes.
4. Using a hand mixer, blend the ingredients until smooth and creamy.
5. Transfer the sweet potato mixture to the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly.
6. In a small bowl, mix together the melted butter, brown sugar, flour, salt, and chopped pecans to create the topping.
7. Sprinkle the pecan topping evenly over the sweet potato mixture.
8. Bake in the preheated oven for about 30 minutes, or until the topping is golden and crisp.
9. Let the casserole cool slightly before serving warm.

Tips & Tricks

• Check for Doneness: To ensure the casserole is perfectly baked, check that the topping is golden brown and the sweet potato mixture is set.
• Texture Enhancement: For a smoother texture, you can puree the sweet potatoes in a food processor before mixing in the other ingredients.
• Make-Ahead: This casserole can be made the day before. Simply prepare the dish, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. On the day you plan to serve it, bake it in the oven for about 40 minutes or until heated through.

Pairing Ideas and Variations

This classic sweet potato casserole pairs wonderfully with roasted meats like turkey, ham, or chicken. You can also serve it alongside a fresh salad to balance the richness of the dish. If you want to add a little spice, try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder to the sweet potato mixture. For a make-ahead option, prepare the casserole up to the point of baking, refrigerate it overnight, and bake the next day.

For those looking for a gluten-free version, simply swap the flour in the topping for a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend.

A Timeless Holiday Favorite

This classic sweet potato casserole isn’t just a holiday staple—it’s a dish that brings warmth and comfort to every meal. Whether you’re celebrating Thanksgiving, Christmas, or simply enjoying a cozy family dinner, this casserole is a crowd-pleaser that will never go out of style. The combination of creamy sweet potatoes and crunchy pecans makes it the perfect side dish to complete any festive meal.

Conclusion

This classic sweet potato casserole recipe is the perfect combination of comfort, flavor, and texture. Its creamy, spiced sweet potato base paired with a crunchy pecan topping makes it a crowd-pleasing side dish that will surely steal the show at your next holiday gathering. Whether you’re serving it at Thanksgiving, Christmas, or a simple family dinner, it’s sure to be a hit. With minimal effort and ingredients you likely already have in your pantry, you can create a delicious, unforgettable dish that everyone will enjoy.

FAQs About Classic Sweet Potato Casserole

More Relevant Recipes

• Roasted Butternut Squash Salad Recipe: This salad pairs perfectly with the sweet and savory notes of sweet potato casserole. Roasted butternut squash, fresh greens, and a light vinaigrette create a flavorful and balanced side dish to complement any meal.
• Fall Harvest Salad with Maple Balsamic Vinaigrette: This vibrant salad brings together seasonal ingredients like apples, pecans, and cranberries, making it a delightful and refreshing companion to your classic sweet potato casserole. The maple balsamic dressing adds a perfect touch of sweetness and tang.
• Roasted Chickpea Fall Salad: A hearty and flavorful salad with roasted chickpeas, mixed greens, and a savory dressing. This salad offers a delicious crunch and pairs well with the comforting sweetness of sweet potato casserole.

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