Sweet potato casserole with pecan streusel is a warm, cozy dish that combines the natural sweetness of mashed sweet potatoes with a crunchy, buttery pecan topping. Perfect for holiday feasts or special family dinners, this casserole balances the creamy richness of the sweet potatoes with the warm, nutty crunch of the streusel, making it an irresistible side dish or even a dessert!

In this guide, we’ll walk through how to make this beloved casserole from scratch, along with tips to ensure a smooth filling and crisp topping, plus flavor variations and serving ideas.

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1. Ingredients for Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecan Streusel

Here’s what you’ll need to create this delicious, comforting casserole:

For the Sweet Potato Filling:

• Sweet Potatoes – 4 large (about 2 lbs), peeled and cubed
• Butter – 4 tablespoons, melted
• Brown Sugar – 1/3 cup (light or dark)
• Milk – 1/2 cup (or cream for extra richness)
• Vanilla Extract – 1 teaspoon
• Ground Cinnamon – 1/2 teaspoon
• Ground Nutmeg – 1/4 teaspoon
• Salt – 1/4 teaspoon

For the Pecan Streusel Topping:

• Pecans – 1 cup, roughly chopped
• Brown Sugar – 1/2 cup
• All-Purpose Flour – 1/3 cup
• Butter – 4 tablespoons, melted
• Ground Cinnamon – 1/2 teaspoon (optional, for extra warmth)

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2. Step-by-Step Instructions for Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecan Streusel

Follow these steps to create a smooth, creamy filling and a crispy, nutty topping:

Step 1: Prepare the Sweet Potatoes

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Place the cubed sweet potatoes in a large pot of salted water. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
3. Drain the sweet potatoes and let them cool slightly.

Step 2: Make the Sweet Potato Filling

1. In a large mixing bowl, mash the sweet potatoes with a potato masher or electric mixer until smooth.
2. Add the melted butter, brown sugar, milk, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Mix until well combined and creamy.
3. Spread the sweet potato mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish.

Step 3: Prepare the Pecan Streusel Topping

1. In a medium bowl, combine the chopped pecans, brown sugar, flour, melted butter, and cinnamon. Stir until the mixture is well coated and forms a crumbly texture.
2. Sprinkle the streusel evenly over the sweet potato filling, covering the surface completely.

Step 4: Bake the Casserole

1. Bake the casserole in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the topping is golden and crispy, and the sweet potato filling is heated through.
2. Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving.

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3. Tips for Perfect Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecan Streusel

3.1 Boil Until Just Tender

Boil the sweet potatoes until just fork-tender to avoid waterlogging, which can make the filling runny.

3.2 Use Cream for Extra Richness

For an even richer filling, use half-and-half or cream instead of milk.

3.3 Ensure a Crumbly Streusel

Use enough butter to make the streusel crumbly but not overly wet. This will keep the topping crisp as it bakes.

3.4 Let the Casserole Cool Slightly Before Serving

Allow the casserole to cool slightly before serving to help the filling set and make it easier to cut and serve.

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4. Flavor Variations

4.1 Marshmallow and Pecan Topping

Add mini marshmallows on top of the pecan streusel in the last 10 minutes of baking for a gooey, toasted marshmallow layer.

4.2 Maple Pecan Streusel

Replace half the brown sugar with pure maple syrup for a natural sweetness that pairs perfectly with sweet potatoes.

4.3 Coconut-Pecan Topping

Add 1/4 cup of shredded coconut to the pecan streusel for a touch of tropical flavor that complements the sweet potatoes.

4.4 Spiced Sweet Potato Casserole

Add a pinch of cloves, allspice, or ginger to the sweet potato filling for a warm, holiday-inspired flavor.

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5. Serving Suggestions

This casserole is a versatile dish that works as a side, dessert, or even breakfast! Here are some pairing ideas:

• With Roast Turkey or Ham: A perfect holiday side dish that complements savory roasts.
• With Baked Chicken or Pork: Pairs well with roasted or grilled meats for a balanced meal.
• With Fresh Green Beans: Serve alongside fresh or roasted green beans to balance the richness of the casserole.
• As a Dessert: The natural sweetness and pecan topping make it an excellent stand-alone dessert with a dollop of whipped cream.

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6. Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover sweet potato casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or until warmed through. Cover with foil if the topping starts to over-brown.

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7. Making Ahead for Gatherings

Sweet potato casserole is easy to prepare ahead of time for holiday meals:

1. Prepare the Sweet Potato Filling: Make the filling, spread it in the baking dish, and cover tightly. Refrigerate for up to 2 days.
2. Prepare the Streusel Separately: Mix the streusel ingredients and store in a sealed container in the refrigerator.
3. Assemble and Bake: When ready to bake, sprinkle the streusel topping over the filling and bake as directed.

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FAQ

1. Can I use canned sweet potatoes?

Yes, you can use canned sweet potatoes. Drain and mash them before using. Reduce added sugar, as canned varieties are often sweetened.

2. Can I make this dish dairy-free?

Yes! Use plant-based butter and a dairy-free milk alternative like almond or coconut milk.

3. How do I keep the streusel topping crispy?

Using melted butter and baking uncovered helps keep the streusel topping crispy.

4. Can I freeze sweet potato casserole?

Yes, freeze after baking and cooling. Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven.

5. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute a gluten-free flour blend for the streusel topping and check that the oats or any additional ingredients are gluten-free.

6. Can I substitute the brown sugar with another sweetener?

Yes! Use maple syrup, honey, or coconut sugar for a natural sweetener alternative.

7. Can I use different nuts in the topping?

Yes, pecans can be swapped with walnuts, almonds, or even hazelnuts for a different flavor and texture.

8. Should I cover the casserole while baking?

Bake uncovered to allow the streusel topping to crisp up. Cover with foil if the top browns too quickly.

9. Can I add marshmallows to the topping?

Yes! Add mini marshmallows in the last 10 minutes of baking for a classic twist.

10. How should I serve this at a holiday meal?

Serve directly from the baking dish with a spoon, garnished with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of extra pecans for a festive presentation.

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Sweet potato casserole with pecan streusel is a delicious, comforting dish that brings warmth and flavor to any meal. The creamy sweet potato filling, combined with a crunchy, nutty topping, makes it a holiday classic and a crowd-pleaser that everyone will love. Enjoy this cozy and festive favorite!