Sweet Potato Casserole with Brown Sugar Pecan Crust

This Sweet Potato Casserole with Brown Sugar Pecan Crust is a warm, buttery, and irresistibly sweet side dish that tastes like dessert. Fluffy mashed sweet potatoes are baked under a crunchy, caramelized pecan topping — a perfect balance of creamy and crisp. It’s a holiday favorite that brings cozy comfort to any table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe 🍯

🎃 Rich & Creamy: Velvety sweet potatoes with hints of cinnamon and vanilla.
🥧 Crispy Pecan Topping: Buttery brown sugar pecans that add the perfect crunch.
🕯️ Holiday Classic: Loved by both kids and adults alike.
🍽️ Make-Ahead Friendly: Easily prepped the day before your big meal.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Sweet Potato Base:

• 3 large sweet potatoes (about 2 lbs), peeled and cubed
• ¼ cup butter, softened
• ⅓ cup brown sugar
• ¼ cup milk or cream
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• ½ tsp cinnamon
• Pinch of salt

For the Pecan Topping:

• ½ cup brown sugar
• ⅓ cup all-purpose flour
• 4 tbsp melted butter
• 1 cup chopped pecans

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1 – Cook and Mash the Sweet Potatoes

Boil or steam the sweet potatoes until very tender, about 15–20 minutes. Drain well, then mash until smooth and fluffy.

Step 2 – Mix the Base

In a large bowl, combine mashed sweet potatoes, butter, brown sugar, milk, eggs, vanilla, cinnamon, and salt. Stir until creamy and well blended. Spread evenly in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.

Step 3 – Add the Pecan Topping

Mix brown sugar, flour, melted butter, and chopped pecans until crumbly. Sprinkle evenly over the sweet potato mixture.

Step 4 – Bake to Perfection

Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30–35 minutes, until the topping is golden brown and crisp. Let cool slightly before serving.

Expert Tips 💡

🍠 Use baked sweet potatoes for extra caramelized flavor.
🧈 Don’t overmix once you add the eggs — you want a light, airy texture.
🌰 Toast the pecans before topping for an even richer, nuttier taste.
🍯 Add a pinch of nutmeg for deeper warmth and complexity.

What to Serve With

• Roast turkey or ham
• Green bean casserole
• Garlic mashed potatoes
• Cranberry sauce or apple chutney

FAQs

❓ Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare and assemble the casserole a day before baking, cover, and refrigerate. Add the topping just before baking.

❓ Can I use canned sweet potatoes?
You can, but fresh sweet potatoes have better flavor and texture.

❓ How do I make it dairy-free?
Use plant-based butter and non-dairy milk like almond or oat milk — still deliciously creamy!

Conclusion

This Sweet Potato Casserole with Brown Sugar Pecan Crust is everything you want in a holiday side — warm, cozy, and irresistibly sweet with a buttery crunch on top. Whether it’s Thanksgiving, Christmas, or a special Sunday dinner, this dish will always steal the spotlight. 🍠✨