Sweet potato casserole is a staple at many family tables, especially during special meals. I find it’s a dish everyone looks forward to, bringing warmth and comfort. There are so many ways to make it, and each one has its own special charm.
Today, I’m sharing two fantastic sweet potato casserole recipes that I love to make. Whether you prefer a crunchy topping or a creamy classic, I have something here for you to try. Let’s get cooking!
Jump to Recipe:
- 1. Sweet Potato Casserole with Crunchy Pecan Streusel Topping
- 2. Creamy Classic Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe
Sweet Potato Casserole with Crunchy Pecan Streusel Topping
This sweet potato casserole is a family favorite for a good reason. It features a creamy, rich sweet potato base covered with a delightful crunchy pecan topping that everyone enjoys.
Key Ingredients & Tips for Pecan Streusel Casserole
- Fresh Sweet Potatoes: Using fresh, cooked sweet potatoes makes the best-tasting base. They are naturally sweet and creamy.
- Pecan Streusel Topping: This part is key! The mix of butter, brown sugar, flour, and pecans adds a wonderful crunch and nutty flavor.
- Vanilla Extract: Just a little vanilla really helps to bring out the warm, sweet notes in the casserole.
What You Need for Pecan Sweet Potato Casserole
- 4 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cut
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/4 cup milk or heavy cream
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Pinch of nutmeg
- For the streusel: 1/2 cup chopped pecans, 1/4 cup all-purpose flour, 1/4 cup brown sugar, 3 tablespoons cold butter (cut into cubes)
⏱️ Time: 55 min🍽️ Yields: 8 servings
How to Make Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecan Streusel
Step 1: Prepare Sweet Potatoes
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Boil the peeled and cut sweet potatoes in a large pot of water until they are very tender, about 15-20 minutes. Drain them well and transfer to a large mixing bowl.
Step 2: Make the Casserole Base
Add the softened butter, milk, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and nutmeg to the sweet potatoes. Mash everything together until it’s smooth and well combined. Spread this mixture evenly into a 9×13 inch baking dish.
Step 3: Add Streusel and Bake
In a separate small bowl, combine the chopped pecans, flour, brown sugar, and cold butter cubes. Use your fingers or a pastry blender to mix until crumbly. Sprinkle this streusel topping evenly over the sweet potato base. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the casserole is heated through.
📝 Final Note
You can prepare this casserole a day ahead! Just cover and refrigerate before baking. Add a few extra minutes to the baking time if cooking from cold.
Creamy Classic Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe
This traditional sweet potato casserole is simple and comforting, a true classic. It’s perfect for any gathering and offers that familiar, sweet taste you love.
Key Ingredients & Tips for Classic Sweet Potato Casserole
- Creamy Texture: Mash your sweet potatoes until they are very smooth, with no lumps, for the best base. An electric mixer can help achieve this.
- Marshmallow Topping: If you love a gooey, golden topping, mini marshmallows are the way to go. Add them towards the end of baking.
- Spices: A blend of cinnamon and nutmeg adds warm, comforting flavors to the sweet potatoes.
What You Need for Classic Sweet Potato Casserole
- 4 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cut
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 2 cups mini marshmallows (optional)
⏱️ Time: 45 min🍽️ Yields: 6-8 servings
How to Make Classic Sweet Potato Casserole
Step 1: Cook Sweet Potatoes
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Boil the peeled and cut sweet potatoes in a large pot of water until they are very soft, about 15-20 minutes. Drain them thoroughly and transfer to a large mixing bowl.
Step 2: Create the Creamy Base
Add the melted butter, milk, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and nutmeg to the sweet potatoes. Mash well with a fork or potato masher, or use an electric mixer for extra smoothness, until no lumps remain. Spread the mixture evenly into a 9×13 inch baking dish.
Step 3: Bake and Finish
Bake the casserole for 25-30 minutes. If you are adding marshmallows, remove the dish from the oven, sprinkle them evenly over the top, and return to the oven for another 5-10 minutes, or until the marshmallows are puffed and golden brown. Watch carefully to prevent burning.
📝 Final Note
For a less sweet option, you can reduce the amount of granulated sugar in the sweet potato base or skip the marshmallows entirely.
