Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecan Topping

Created on November 2nd, 2025 at 10:50 am

Buttery, fluffy sweet potatoes with a golden pecan crunch

There’s something magical about that first spoonful of creamy, golden Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecan Topping. It’s soft, rich, and perfectly balanced — the kind of dish that turns a quiet table into a chorus of happy sighs. Made with simple pantry ingredients, it delivers the nostalgic flavor of home without the fuss. Whether it’s your family’s Fall Celebration or a cozy Sunday dinner, this classic casserole brings both comfort and sparkle to the table.

For another warm, Southern-style side, check out our Easy Chicken and Cornbread Dressing – together, they’ll make your meal feel straight out of a farmhouse kitchen.

Let’s get cooking! 🍠✨

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Families adore this Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecan Topping for its comforting flavor, easy prep, and crowd-pleasing sweetness. Every bite delivers the perfect contrast: a fluffy, buttery sweet potato layer beneath a golden, crisp pecan streusel.

It’s make-ahead friendly, kid-approved, and downright impossible to resist. Whether you’re serving it at Thanksgiving or your next Fall Celebration, this Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecan Topping always steals the spotlight.

According to the USDA Agricultural Research Service, sweet potatoes are nutrient-dense and naturally rich in fiber, making this indulgent dish surprisingly wholesome under its buttery disguise.

Time Breakdown

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Servings: 6

Ingredients

For the Sweet Potato Layer

• 45 oz canned sweet potatoes in syrup, drained and rinsed
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs, beaten
• 1 stick (½ cup) unsalted butter, room temperature
• ⅓ cup half-and-half cream
• ¼ teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Pecan Topping

• 1 cup brown sugar, packed
• ½ cup all-purpose flour
• 1 cup chopped pecans
• ⅓ cup melted butter
• ¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

Large mixing bowl, electric mixer, spatula, whisk, 8×8-inch baking dish, and measuring cups. That’s it — no gadgets, no gimmicks, just honest kitchen basics.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat and Prepare: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8×8-inch baking dish.
2. Blend the Base: In a large bowl, mix the sweet potatoes, sugar, eggs, butter, half-and-half, and vanilla until smooth and fluffy.
3. Spread It Out: Spoon the sweet potato mixture evenly into the dish and smooth the surface with a spatula.
4. Mix the Topping: In a small bowl, combine brown sugar, flour, and cinnamon. Stir in pecans until evenly coated.
5. Layer the Crunch: Sprinkle the topping over the sweet potatoes, gently pressing down.
6. Drizzle and Bake: Pour melted butter evenly across the topping and bake for 25–30 minutes, until golden and bubbling around the edges.
7. Cool and Serve: Let rest 5–10 minutes before serving. Resist diving in too early — that caramelized pecan top needs a minute to set. 🥧🍂

Pro Tips

• Make Ahead: Assemble one day early and refrigerate. Bake just before serving for peak texture.
• Nut-Free Option: Replace pecans with rolled oats or crushed cornflakes.
• Upgrade the Flavor: Swap vanilla for maple syrup for a deeper autumn sweetness.
• Storage: Keeps up to 4 days in the fridge; reheat at 325°F uncovered.
• Pair It Right: Try alongside our Honey Roasted Carrots with Thyme for the perfect mix of sweet and savory sides.

A Bite of History: Sweet Potatoes & Southern Traditions

The Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecan Topping traces its roots to 19th-century Southern kitchens, where sweet potatoes became a staple after the Civil War. Pecans, native to the region, soon joined the mix — creating a dessert-like side that symbolized comfort and abundance.

Today, this Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecan Topping continues to bring families together during harvest season. Sweet potatoes remain a sustainable U.S. crop, grown largely in North Carolina, Mississippi, and Louisiana, known for their low water use and nutrient-rich yield.

Let’s Get Cooking

Once you taste this Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecan Topping, you’ll understand why it’s a Fall Celebration favorite. It’s creamy, caramelized, and packed with cozy Southern flavor. Whether served beside roasted turkey or enjoyed on its own, it brings that golden touch of gratitude to every bite.

FAQ

Nutrition (Per Serving)

Serving Size	Calories	Protein	Carbs	Fat	Fiber	Sugar
1 serving	682	7g	63g	44g	4g	38g

Disclaimer: Nutrition facts are estimated using online tools and may vary based on your ingredients and preparation. Please consult a nutritionist for precise dietary advice.