A classic holiday side dish combining sweet potatoes with a crunchy pecan topping, perfect for Thanksgiving and winter gatherings.
Servings 8servings
Course Comfort Food, Side Dish
Cuisine American
Ingredients
For the Casserole
4mediumsweet potatoesnutrient-rich and naturally sweet, great source of beta-carotene
1/2cupbrown sugaradds caramel notes and sweetness to the filling
1/2cupmilkprovides creaminess and smooth texture
1/4cupbutter (melted)enriches flavor and adds silkiness
2largeeggsbind the casserole for a stable, fluffy texture
1teaspoonvanilla extractenhances sweetness and rounds flavors
1/2teaspooncinnamonwarm spice that complements sweet potatoes
1/4teaspoonnutmegadds depth and aromatic warmth
For the Pecan Topping
1cupchopped pecanscrunchy, buttery topping and healthy fats
1/3cupflourhelps create a crumbly, cohesive topping
1/3cupbrown sugarcaramelizes for a crunchy sweet crust
2tablespoonsbutter (melted for topping)binds topping and crisps during baking
Method
Preparation
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
Boil the sweet potatoes in a large pot of water until tender (about 20–25 minutes); drain and cool slightly. Peel and mash the sweet potatoes until smooth.
In a large bowl, combine the mashed sweet potatoes, 1/2 cup brown sugar, 1/2 cup milk, 1/4 cup melted butter, 2 eggs, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon, and 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg. Mix until smooth and well blended.
Pour the sweet potato mixture into a greased 9x13-inch baking dish, spreading evenly.
In another bowl, mix 1 cup chopped pecans, 1/3 cup flour, 1/3 cup brown sugar (for topping), and 2 tablespoons melted butter. Stir until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs, then spread this mixture evenly over the sweet potato layer.
Bake in the preheated oven for 25–30 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the casserole is heated through.
For best results, assemble the casserole (without baking), wrap tightly, and freeze for up to 2 months. For ultra-smooth filling, use an electric mixer to mash the potatoes, but be careful not to overmix.