The Best Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe Ever

This recipe balances the creamy sweetness of the potato filling with a crunchy, buttery topping.

Ingredients

I. Sweet Potato Filling

• 2 1/2 lbs (about 4 large) sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks

• 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened

• 1/2 cup brown sugar

• 1/4 cup whole milk or half-and-half

• 2 large eggs

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

• 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon

• 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg 

• 1/4 tsp salt

II. Pecan Streusel Topping

• 1/3 cup all-purpose flour

• 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar

• 1/4 cup (1/2 stick) unsalted butter, melted

• 1 cup chopped pecans

 

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Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Sweet Potatoes

1. Place the sweet potato chunks in a large pot and cover with cold water. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer until the potatoes are very tender (about 15-20 minutes).

2. Drain the potatoes well and transfer them to a large mixing bowl.

Step 2: Make the Sweet Potato Filling

1. Mash the drained sweet potatoes until smooth.

2. Add the softened butter, granulated sugar, brown sugar, milk, eggs, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt to the mashed potatoes.

3. Beat the mixture with a hand mixer or wooden spoon until it is completely smooth and creamy.

4. Pour the filling into a prepared 9x13-inch baking dish that has been lightly buttered or sprayed with cooking spray.

Step 3: Prepare the Pecan Streusel Topping

1. In a separate medium bowl, combine the flour and brown sugar.

2. Pour the melted butter over the flour and sugar mixture. Stir with a fork until large, moist crumbles form.

3. Fold in the chopped pecans until they are evenly distributed throughout the streusel.

Step 4: Bake the Casserole

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

2. Sprinkle the pecan streusel evenly over the sweet potato filling.

3. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the filling is set and bubbling slightly around the edges.

4. At this time, top with marshmallows and return to the oven to broil for 2-3 minutes until the marshmallow is golden brown.

5. Let the casserole cool for 10-15 minutes before serving.

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✨ Pro-Tip for Sharing

For a perfectly golden topping that won't burn, you can optionally bake the casserole for 15 minutes without the topping, then add the streusel and bake for the final 15 minutes.

Would you like some suggestions for make-ahead tips for this casserole, or perhaps a recipe for another holiday favorite?