Southern Sweet Potato Casserole

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There’s something incredibly comforting about a spoonful of Southern Sweet Potato Casserole. This beloved dish strikes the perfect balance between sweet and savory, with velvety mashed sweet potatoes beneath a crisp pecan and brown sugar topping. It’s more than just a side dish—it’s a nostalgic, family-favorite comfort food that feels like a warm hug on your plate.

Whether it’s served at a holiday gathering or as part of a Sunday dinner spread, this casserole always seems to disappear quickly. The rich, buttery base is perfectly complemented by the crunchy pecans and hint of spice, making it a must-have for both sweet potato lovers and skeptics alike.

Why You’ll Love This Southern Sweet Potato Casserole

This casserole brings out the best in sweet potatoes—naturally sweet, smooth, and creamy. It’s easy to prepare ahead of time, feeds a crowd, and suits any festive table. The toasted pecan crumble topping gives it a lovely texture contrast that’s absolutely irresistible. Plus, it can double as a side dish or even a dessert.

What Kind of Sweet Potatoes Should I Use?

Look for firm, orange-fleshed sweet potatoes—often labeled as “garnet” or “jewel” varieties. These have the ideal natural sweetness and creaminess that make this casserole sing. Avoid white or purple sweet potatoes for this recipe, as their flavor and texture just don’t deliver the same classic Southern charm.

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Ingredients for the Southern Sweet Potato Casserole

Sweet potatoes: The star of the show. Their natural sweetness and creamy texture form the rich, flavorful base of this dish.

Brown sugar: Adds a deep, caramel-like sweetness that enhances both the mashed filling and the pecan topping.

Butter: Essential for richness and a smooth, melt-in-your-mouth texture in both the mash and the crumble.

Eggs: They help bind the sweet potato mixture and give it structure while keeping it tender.

Vanilla extract: Brings warmth and a cozy depth of flavor to the mix.

Milk: Adds creaminess to the mashed sweet potatoes and helps blend everything smoothly.

Salt: A touch balances the sweetness and brings out the other flavors.

Pecans: Provide that signature Southern crunch on top.

All-purpose flour: Combined with butter and sugar to create a crumbly, golden topping.

Cinnamon: Adds a warm spice note that plays beautifully with the sweet potatoes and pecans.

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How To Make the Southern Sweet Potato Casserole

Step 1: Prep and Boil the Sweet Potatoes

Peel and cut your sweet potatoes into chunks. Boil them in a large pot of water until fork-tender, about 15-20 minutes. Drain and let cool slightly.

Step 2: Make the Sweet Potato Filling

Mash the sweet potatoes in a large bowl. Add brown sugar, melted butter, eggs, vanilla extract, milk, and salt. Mix until smooth and well combined.

Step 3: Spread the Mixture in a Dish

Pour the sweet potato mixture into a greased baking dish, smoothing it out into an even layer.

Step 4: Make the Pecan Topping

In a medium bowl, mix together chopped pecans, brown sugar, flour, melted butter, and cinnamon until a crumbly topping forms.

Step 5: Add the Topping

Sprinkle the pecan mixture evenly over the top of the sweet potatoes.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 30-35 minutes, or until the topping is golden and crispy. Serve warm.

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How to Serve and Store Southern Sweet Potato Casserole

This casserole is best served warm, straight from the oven when the pecan topping is still crispy and golden. It makes a fantastic addition to Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any celebratory table, and it comfortably feeds 8 to 10 people.

To store leftovers, allow the dish to cool completely. Cover with plastic wrap or transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply warm in the oven at 325°F until heated through, or microwave individual portions for a quicker option.

You can also make this casserole ahead of time. Prepare the filling and topping separately, store them in the fridge, and assemble and bake when you’re ready.

What to Serve With Southern Sweet Potato Casserole?

Roast Turkey

The classic holiday companion. Sweet potato casserole and roast turkey are a match made in comfort food heaven.

Honey Glazed Ham

The sweet and savory combination of ham with this casserole is simply irresistible.

Green Bean Almondine

Add a pop of green and a fresh crunch with this simple, buttery side.

Cranberry Sauce

A tart and tangy contrast to balance out the sweetness of the casserole.

Cornbread Stuffing

Keep the Southern theme going with a hearty stuffing to round out the meal.

Garlic Mashed Potatoes

Creamy and savory, these mashed potatoes are a lovely foil to the sweetness of the casserole.

Deviled Eggs

Perfect for appetizers or side bites to complement the main plate.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the sweet potato mixture and the pecan topping a day in advance. Store them separately in the fridge and assemble just before baking. It’s a great time-saver for busy holiday cooking.

Can I use canned sweet potatoes instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use canned sweet potatoes in a pinch. Just make sure they are drained well and mashed thoroughly. Keep in mind the flavor might be slightly less vibrant than fresh.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Yes! Swap the butter for a dairy-free alternative and use a plant-based milk like almond or oat. The result is still delicious and creamy.

Can I freeze the leftovers?

You can freeze the fully baked casserole. Let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly in foil and freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven straight from the freezer or after thawing overnight in the fridge.

Save This Pin For Later

Save this recipe to your Pinterest holiday board so you can come back to it any time.
And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you go heavy on the pecans? Maybe add marshmallows? I love hearing the twists you put on these dishes. Questions are welcome too—let’s help each other make holiday magic!

Find more of my daily recipes on my Pinterest: Meals We Share By Sally

Conclusion

Southern Sweet Potato Casserole is more than just a side dish—it’s a warm, inviting celebration of flavor and tradition. With its smooth, sweet base and crunchy topping, it brings a little Southern hospitality to every table. Whether you’re serving it for the holidays or just because, this recipe is guaranteed to win hearts and second servings.

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