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A white ceramic baking dish filled with mashed sweet potato casserole topped with a thick layer of toasted brown sugar and pecan crumble.

Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecan Topping

This classic sweet potato casserole is rich, creamy, and perfectly spiced, topped with a crunchy pecan crumble that makes it ideal for holidays and comfort-food dinners.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dessert, Side Dish
Cuisine: American
Calories: 410
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Sweet Potato Base
  • 4 large sweet potatoes peeled and cubed
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter melted
  • 1/3 cup brown sugar
  • 1/4 cup milk
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
  • salt to taste
Pecan Topping
  • 1 cup pecans chopped
  • 1/3 cup brown sugar
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 3 tbsp unsalted butter softened

Equipment

  • Large Pot
  • Baking Dish

Method
 

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Place the sweet potatoes in a large pot, cover with water, and bring to a boil.
  3. Cook for 15–20 minutes until very tender, then drain well.
  4. Mash the sweet potatoes in a large bowl until smooth.
  5. Add melted butter, brown sugar, milk, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Mix until creamy.
  6. Spread the sweet potato mixture evenly into a greased baking dish.
  7. In a separate bowl, mix pecans, brown sugar, flour, and softened butter until crumbly.
  8. Sprinkle the pecan topping evenly over the sweet potato layer.
  9. Bake uncovered for 30–35 minutes until the topping is golden and crisp.
  10. Let cool slightly before serving.

Notes

This casserole can be prepared a day ahead and baked just before serving, making it perfect for holiday meals.