Easy Old Fashioned Sweet Potato Casserole

Looking for a scrumptious dish that combines classic flavors with a delightful twist? Say hello to the irresistible Old Fashioned Sweet Potato Casserole with a heavenly pecan topping! Perfect for holiday gatherings or any occasion where comfort food reigns supreme, this mouthwatering recipe promises to captivate taste buds and warm hearts. Let's dive into the blissful world of creamy mashed sweet potatoes, infused with vanilla essence, and crowned with a delectable crunch that will leave everyone asking for seconds.

Looking for more holiday sides?

Try my Croissant Stuffing Recipe, Brown Butter Mashed Potatoes, Green Bean Mac n’ Cheese Casserole, and Parker House Rolls.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

• Timeless Comfort: This Old Fashioned Sweet Potato Casserole exudes the warmth of nostalgia, evoking fond memories of holiday gatherings and cherished family traditions. Its classic flavors and creamy texture offer a comforting and familiar experience that brings joy to the table.
• Irresistible Sweetness: The harmonious blend of sweet potatoes, vanilla, and sugar creates a delightful balance of flavors. With each spoonful, the luscious sweetness envelops your taste buds, making it an absolute treat for those with a penchant for delectable desserts.
• Crunchy Pecan Delight: The pecan topping adds a delightful twist to the traditional casserole, infusing it with a rich, nutty crunch. The contrast between the smooth sweet potatoes and the irresistible pecans elevates the dish to new levels of indulgence, making it a must-try for anyone seeking a textural delight.

Ingredients & Substitutions

Full list of ingredients with measurements listed below in recipe card. 

• Sweet Potatoes - The star of the dish, providing a creamy and naturally sweet base that defines the casserole. You can also use canned sweet potatoes for convenience, ensuring they are drained and well-mashed.
• Eggs - Essential for binding the sweet potato mixture, adding structure to the casserole. For a vegan option, you can substitute with a flaxseed or chia seed mixture.
• Milk - Contributes to the creamy texture and enhances the richness of the sweet potatoes. For a dairy-free alternative, opt for almond, coconut, or oat milk.
• White Granulated Sugar - Balances the natural sweetness of the sweet potatoes, creating a well-rounded flavor profile. If preferred, you can use brown sugar for a deeper, caramel-like taste.
• Butter - Imparts a rich and buttery essence to the casserole, elevating its indulgence. For a healthier option, substitute with coconut oil or vegan butter.
• Vanilla Extract - Infuses the dish with a warm, comforting aroma and enhances the overall taste. If you don't have vanilla extract, try using almond extract or a pinch of ground cinnamon.
• Salt - Brings out the flavors and balances the sweetness of the casserole. You can use sea salt or kosher salt based on your preference.

Pecan Topping

• Pecans - The crowning glory, providing a delightful nutty crunch to complement the creamy sweet potatoes. If you have allergies or don't prefer pecans, crushed walnuts or sliced almonds make excellent substitutes.
• Brown Sugar - Combines with pecans to create a delectable caramelized topping. You can use coconut sugar for a lower glycemic option.
• All-Purpose Flour - Binds the pecan topping together, adding a light, crispy texture. For a gluten-free alternative, try using almond flour or gluten-free all-purpose flour.
• Ground Cinnamon (optional) - Elevates the pecan topping with a warm, aromatic touch. Adjust the amount based on your preference for a more pronounced cinnamon flavor.

Equipment Needed

• Large Bowl - For mashing the cooked sweet potatoes and combining the other ingredients to make the casserole mixture.
• Potato Masher or Hand Mixer - To mash the sweet potatoes to the desired texture. Choose the masher for a thicker texture or the hand mixer for a creamier consistency.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons - For accurately measuring the ingredients, ensuring the right balance of flavors and textures.
• Large Casserole Dish or 9x13" Pan - To bake the sweet potato casserole. Ensure the dish is oven-safe and has enough space to spread the mixture evenly.
• Medium Bowl - For mixing the pecan topping ingredients and achieving the desired crumbly texture.
• Oven - To bake the casserole until fully cooked and the topping turns golden brown.
• Aluminum Foil (optional) - To cover the casserole while baking if you prefer a softer texture on top.
• Spatula or Spoon - For spreading the sweet potato mixture and pecan topping evenly in the casserole dish.
• Knife - To peel the sweet potatoes (if using raw sweet potatoes) and to cut open baked sweet potatoes for mashing.
• Cutting Board - To peel and prepare the sweet potatoes.

How to Make this Recipe

Full step-by-step instructions listed below in recipe card. 

To make this Old Fashioned Sweet Potato Casserole, start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. If using raw sweet potatoes, peel and cook them until fork-tender, then mash them in a large bowl to a creamy texture.

Next, add eggs, milk, white sugar, melted butter, vanilla extract, and salt to the sweet potatoes, stirring until well combined. For a creamier texture, use a hand mixer; otherwise, a potato masher works well.

Once the sweet potato mixture is ready, spread it evenly in a large casserole dish or 9x13" pan. Now, prepare the pecan topping by combining chopped pecans, brown sugar, all-purpose flour, melted butter, and optional ground cinnamon in a medium bowl, creating a crumbly texture.

Evenly crumble the pecan topping over the sweet potato mixture, covering the surface entirely. Bake the casserole uncovered for 35-40 minutes or until fully cooked and the topping turns golden brown. Optionally, you can cover it with aluminum foil for a softer topping.

Once done, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for at least 5 minutes before serving. This delightful dish is perfect for holiday gatherings or any occasion when you crave a comforting, sweet treat. Enjoy the timeless comfort and irresistible flavors of this Old Fashioned Sweet Potato Casserole with its luscious sweet potato base and crunchy pecan topping.

Variations

• Marshmallow-Topped Sweet Potato Casserole: For a classic twist, replace the pecan topping with a layer of mini marshmallows before baking. Let the marshmallows melt and turn golden brown, creating a gooey, sweet topping that perfectly complements the creamy sweet potatoes.
• Maple-Glazed Pecan Topping: Enhance the pecan topping by drizzling it with a mixture of maple syrup and melted butter before baking. The addition of maple syrup adds a rich, indulgent flavor that pairs beautifully with the nutty pecans.
• Orange Zest and Cranberry Infusion: Elevate the sweet potato mixture by incorporating the zest of one orange and a handful of dried cranberries. The zesty citrus notes and tangy cranberries provide a delightful burst of flavor to the classic casserole.
• Coconut Streusel Topping: Swap out the pecans and use a combination of shredded coconut, rolled oats, brown sugar, and melted butter to create a tropical-inspired streusel topping. The coconut adds a tropical twist and a delightful crunch to the dish.
• Savory Herb Infusion: If you prefer a savory twist, incorporate a combination of fresh or dried herbs like rosemary, thyme, and sage into the sweet potato mixture. The aromatic herbs bring a delightful contrast to the natural sweetness of the potatoes.
• Gluten-Free Option: To make the recipe gluten-free, substitute the all-purpose flour in the pecan topping with a gluten-free alternative, such as almond flour or a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend.
• Nut-Free Variation: If allergies are a concern, omit the pecans entirely or replace them with toasted sunflower or pumpkin seeds. This modification retains the textural element while catering to nut-free diets.

Wine Pairing

For the Old Fashioned Sweet Potato Casserole with its creamy, sweet, and nutty flavors, a wine pairing that complements the dish's richness and enhances its taste is ideal. Consider pairing it with a Riesling wine.

A Riesling wine typically offers a perfect balance of sweetness and acidity, which complements the sweet potato casserole's flavors without overpowering it. The wine's fruity and floral notes, often with hints of citrus and peach, can harmonize with the vanilla and nutty undertones in the casserole.

Moreover, a well-chilled Riesling can provide a refreshing contrast to the casserole's warm and comforting elements. Its versatility makes it an excellent choice for both the sweet and savory variations of the casserole, such as the marshmallow-topped or herb-infused options.

Keep in mind that wine preferences can vary, so you can always experiment with other options like a Gewürztraminer, a Viognier, or even a light, fruity red wine like a Beaujolais. Ultimately, choose a wine that you enjoy and complements your palate. Enjoy the delightful pairing of your chosen wine with the comforting flavors of the Old Fashioned Sweet Potato Casserole!

FAQ's

Can I use canned sweet potatoes instead of fresh ones?

Yes, you can use canned sweet potatoes for convenience. Make sure to drain them well and mash them to a creamy texture before proceeding with the recipe.

Can I prepare the casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can make the sweet potato mixture in advance and spread it in the baking dish. Store it covered in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Assemble the pecan topping separately in an airtight container. When ready to bake, add the topping to the sweet potato mixture and follow the baking instructions.

Is there a vegan version of this recipe?

Yes, you can make a vegan-friendly version. Replace the eggs with a flaxseed or chia seed mixture as a binding agent. Use vegan butter and non-dairy milk (e.g., almond, coconut, or oat milk) to ensure the recipe remains plant-based.

Can I freeze the casserole for later?

Absolutely! Prepare the sweet potato mixture and place it in a baking dish, then tightly wrap it with foil. Freeze it for up to 3 months. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before baking. Make the pecan topping separately and spread it over the thawed sweet potato mixture before baking.

How do I achieve a crispier pecan topping?

To achieve a crispier topping, you can bake the casserole uncovered for the entire baking time. Alternatively, you can briefly broil the casserole for the last few minutes, keeping a close eye to prevent burning.

Can I use different nuts in the pecan topping?

Certainly! While pecans add a delightful crunch, you can use other nuts like walnuts, almonds, or even a combination of nuts to create your preferred topping.

What is the suggested serving size?

The serving size can vary based on preference and the occasion. As a side dish, a typical serving might be around ½ to ¾ cup. Adjust portions accordingly if serving as a dessert or main course.

Can I use a gluten-free alternative for the pecan topping?

Yes, you can use gluten-free all-purpose flour or almond flour as a substitute to make the pecan topping gluten-free.

What wine pairs well with this sweet potato casserole?

A Riesling wine pairs exceptionally well with the casserole's sweet and nutty flavors. Its balanced sweetness and refreshing acidity complement the dish, enhancing the overall dining experience.

Can I adjust the sweetness level of the casserole?

Certainly! Feel free to adjust the amount of white sugar or use brown sugar for a deeper flavor. Taste the sweet potato mixture before baking and add more sugar if desired.

Tips

• Preparation Time: To save time on the day of serving, cook and mash the sweet potatoes in advance. Store the mashed sweet potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator until you're ready to assemble the casserole.
• Flavor Infusion: Add a pinch of nutmeg or a dash of orange zest to the sweet potato mixture for an extra layer of aromatic flavor that complements the casserole's sweetness.
• Consistency Control: If the sweet potato mixture appears too thick, gradually add a little milk to achieve your desired creamy texture. Conversely, if it's too runny, add a tablespoon of flour at a time until it thickens to your liking.
• Testing Doneness: Ensure the casserole is fully cooked by inserting a toothpick or a knife into the center. It should come out clean, indicating that the sweet potatoes are tender and fully baked.
• Resting Time: Allow the casserole to rest for a few minutes after baking. This helps the flavors meld together and makes it easier to slice and serve.
• Serving Options: This versatile casserole can be enjoyed as a side dish alongside roasted meats or poultry. Alternatively, serve it as a delectable dessert with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
• Adjusting Sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet casserole, reduce the amount of sugar in the sweet potato mixture or the pecan topping. Taste and adjust according to your personal preference.
• Reheating: If you have leftovers, reheat the casserole in the oven or microwave. To prevent the pecan topping from becoming too soft, consider broiling it briefly before serving.

Looking for more recipes?

Try my Brown Butter Mashed Potatoes, Green Bean Mac n’ Cheese Casserole, and Parker House Rolls.

Did You Make this Recipe?

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Recipe Card

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