Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe

If you’re looking for a comforting dish that warms the heart and brings smiles to faces, then this Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe is just what you need. It’s creamy, sweet, and topped with crunchy pecans and fluffy vegan marshmallows—what’s not to love? This casserole is perfect for family gatherings during the holidays or even as a cozy side dish on busy weeknights. Trust me; once you serve it up, everyone will be asking for seconds!

What makes this recipe special is its blend of flavors and textures. The creamy sweet potatoes paired with the delightful crunch of candied pecans create an unforgettable experience that will have your loved ones raving about it long after the meal is over.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to prepare: With simple steps and minimal prep time, you’ll have this dish ready in no time!
• Family-friendly appeal: Kids and adults alike adore this creamy, sweet treat—it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
• Make-ahead convenience: You can prepare it ahead of time and just pop it in the oven when you’re ready to serve!
• Delicious flavor: The combination of sweet potatoes, brown sugar, and crunchy pecans makes every bite heavenly.
• Versatile side dish: Perfect for holidays, potlucks, or a comforting meal at home.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients that make this casserole so special! You likely have most of them in your pantry already. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Sweet Potato Base

• 5 pounds sweet potatoes (peeled and cut into 2-inch pieces)
• 1 cup water
• 2 eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ½ cup butter (melted)
• 1 cup brown sugar
• 2-3 teaspoons salt (or to taste)
• ½ cup heavy cream (or milk)

For the Topping

• ½ cup brown sugar
• ½ cup flour
• ⅓ cup melted butter
• 1 cup chopped pecans
• 3-4 cups mini vegan marshmallows

Variations

This Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to get creative with these variations:

• Add some spice: Mix in a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm fall flavor.
• Go nut-free: Replace pecans with sunflower seeds or omit them entirely if allergies are a concern.
• Make it fruity: Add a handful of dried cranberries or fresh apples for a delightful twist.
• Use different toppings: Swap mini marshmallows for coconut flakes or crushed graham crackers for added texture.

How to Make Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Sweet Potatoes

Start by cooking your sweet potatoes. You can boil them until tender or use an Instant Pot for quicker results. I love using the slow cooker method—it allows the potatoes to become super soft while you attend to other things. This step is crucial because perfectly cooked sweet potatoes form the base of our dish.

Step 2: Mash and Mix

Once cooked, mash your sweet potatoes until smooth (or leave some texture if you prefer!). Add in the eggs, vanilla extract, melted butter, brown sugar, salt, and your choice of cream or milk. Mixing these ingredients together creates a rich and buttery filling that is simply irresistible!

Step 3: Assemble the Casserole

Spread your mashed potato mixture evenly in a greased 9×13 baking dish. This layer forms the deliciously creamy foundation for our casserole.

Step 4: Prepare the Pecan Topping

In a separate bowl, combine brown sugar, flour, melted butter, and chopped pecans. Mix it all together with a spoon until well combined. Sprinkle this crunchy topping over your sweet potato base—it’s okay if some spots show through!

Step 5: Bake Until Golden

Place your casserole in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 20-25 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the topping looks golden and caramelized—this adds so much flavor!

Step 6: Add Marshmallows

Finally, sprinkle those mini vegan marshmallows on top of the pecan mixture and return it to the oven for another 5-7 minutes. Keep an eye on them; you want them puffy and slightly browned for that perfect finish.

Serve your warm Sweet Potato Casserole right from the oven and watch everyone dive in! Enjoy every bite—you’ve earned it!

Pro Tips for Making Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe

Creating a delicious sweet potato casserole is all about the little details, and I’m here to help you make it perfect!

• Choose the right sweet potatoes: Opt for firm, smooth sweet potatoes. They’ll yield a creamier texture and sweeter flavor, enhancing the overall taste of your casserole.

• Don’t overmix the potatoes: Mixing too much can lead to a gluey texture. Aim for a smooth but slightly chunky consistency for those delightful bites of sweet potato.

• Experiment with toppings: If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding shredded coconut or crushed graham crackers to your pecan topping. It adds an exciting twist and extra crunch!

• Make it ahead of time: You can prepare the sweet potato mixture a day in advance. Just cover and refrigerate it, then add the topping before baking. This saves time on busy days!

• Adjust sweetness levels: Everyone’s palate is different! Taste your mixture before baking and adjust the brown sugar to suit your preference, ensuring it’s just right for you and your guests.

How to Serve Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe

Serving sweet potato casserole can be as fun as making it! Its vibrant color and comforting aroma make it a centerpiece at any meal.

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh herbs: A sprinkle of chopped parsley or chives adds a fresh pop of color and flavor that balances the sweetness.
• Cinnamon dusting: A light dusting of cinnamon right before serving enhances the warmth of flavors without overpowering them.
• Toasted coconut flakes: Adding toasted coconut gives an exotic flair and a delightful crunch that pairs well with the creamy base.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Green Beans: Sautéed green beans with garlic offer a crunchy contrast to the creamy casserole while providing a burst of freshness.
• Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad tossed with cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and lemon vinaigrette brings brightness and protein to your plate.
• Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Crispy roasted Brussels sprouts drizzled with balsamic glaze create a savory balance against the sweetness of the casserole.
• Vegan Stuffing: A hearty vegan stuffing made with bread cubes, vegetables, and herbs complements the flavors beautifully while adding more texture to your meal.

Enjoy making this sweet potato casserole recipe part of your family’s favorite meals! Happy cooking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can easily whip it up ahead of time and enjoy it throughout the week. Here’s how to store it properly so you can savor every delicious bite.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the casserole to cool completely before storing.
• Cover tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing

• Let the casserole cool completely, then portion it into airtight containers or freezer-safe bags.
• Label with the date and freeze for up to 2-3 months.
• For best texture, avoid freezing after adding marshmallows.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the fridge if frozen.
• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Cover with foil and heat for about 20-25 minutes, or until warmed through. If desired, uncover during the last few minutes to crisp up the topping.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delightful dish!

What can I substitute for eggs in the Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe?

You can use flaxseed meal or chia seeds as a great egg replacement. Mix 1 tablespoon of either with 2.5 tablespoons of water for each egg needed, let it sit until it thickens, and then add it to your casserole mixture!

Can I make Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe without butter?

Absolutely! You can replace butter with coconut oil or vegan butter to keep it dairy-free while maintaining that creamy texture.

How do I ensure my Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe is not too sweet?

Adjust the amount of brown sugar according to your taste preferences. Start with half and add more as needed; you can always taste-test as you mix!

Can I add other toppings to my Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe?

Definitely! Try adding some shredded coconut, chopped nuts other than pecans, or even a sprinkle of cinnamon for an extra flavor boost.

Can I use canned sweet potatoes in this Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe?

While fresh sweet potatoes yield the best flavor and texture, you can use canned ones if you’re short on time. Just be sure to drain them well before mashing!

Final Thoughts

This Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe holds a special place on our holiday table because it’s both comforting and delicious! The creamy base paired with that crunchy pecan topping and toasted marshmallows makes every bite a celebration. I hope you enjoy making this recipe as much as I do—and don’t forget to share it with friends and family! Happy cooking!