Ingredients

For the Sweet Potato Filling:

  • 4 cups mashed sweet potatoes (about 4 large sweet potatoes)
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar or brown sugar (adjust for sweetness preference)
  • 2 large eggs, beaten
  • 1/2 cup milk (whole or evaporated)
  • 1/4 cup melted butter
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon (optional)
  • Pinch of salt

For the Pecan Topping:

  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar
  • 1/2 cup chopped pecans
  • 1/4 cup melted butter

Instructions

  1. Preheat the Oven:
    • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or similar casserole dish.
  2. Prepare the Sweet Potatoes:
    • Peel and chop the sweet potatoes. Boil them in a large pot of water for about 15-20 minutes or until tender. Drain, then mash until smooth.
  3. Make the Sweet Potato Filling:
    • In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed sweet potatoes, sugar, beaten eggs, milk, melted butter, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt. Mix until smooth and creamy.
  4. Transfer to Baking Dish:
    • Spread the sweet potato mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish.
  5. Prepare the Pecan Topping:
    • In a separate bowl, combine the flour, brown sugar, chopped pecans, and melted butter. Mix until crumbly.
  6. Add the Topping:
    • Sprinkle the pecan topping evenly over the sweet potato mixture.
  7. Bake:
    • Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the casserole is heated through.
  8. Serve:
    • Let the casserole cool slightly before serving. Enjoy this delicious Southern Sweet Potato Casserole warm!

Tips

  • Marshmallow Topping Option: For a more classic Southern touch, top the casserole with mini marshmallows in the last 5-10 minutes of baking, letting them toast to a golden brown.
  • Make-Ahead Option: You can assemble the casserole the day before and refrigerate. Just add the topping before baking.

This Southern Sweet Potato Casserole has a wonderful balance of smooth, sweet potatoes and a crunchy, buttery pecan topping—a must-have for holiday gatherings or family meals!