Classic Sweet Potato Casserole

Welcome to the ultimate guide for crafting the perfect Classic Sweet Potato Casserole, a dish that embodies comfort, warmth, and irresistible flavor. This timeless recipe is a beloved staple, especially during holidays, transforming humble sweet potatoes into a creamy, sweet, and satisfying side dish that will steal the show at any gathering. It’s an easy-to-follow guide for a delicious, crowd-pleasing casserole.

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Prep Time 20

Cook Time 30

Total Time 1

Course: Casserole, Side Dish

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

Key Ingredients for Classic Sweet Potato Casserole

3 lbs Sweet Potatoes (about 4-5 medium), peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes.
1/2 cup Unsalted Butter (1 stick), melted, plus extra for greasing the baking dish.
1/2 cup Granulated Sugar
1/4 cup Brown Sugar packed.
2 Large Eggs lightly beaten.
1/2 cup Milk (whole milk or half-and-half recommended for richness).
1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract
1 teaspoon Ground Cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon Ground Nutmeg
1/2 teaspoon Salt

For the Topping (Optional but highly recommended)

1 cup Pecans chopped (or whole if preferred).
1/4 cup Brown Sugar packed.
2 tablespoons All-Purpose Flour
1/4 cup Unsalted Butter (1/2 stick), cold and cut into small pieces.
1.5 cups Mini Marshmallows (if not using pecan topping, or in addition to).

Equipment

9x13-inch baking dish
Large pot,
Colander
Large mixing bowl
Potato masher (or fork, or electric mixer)
Spatula
Medium Bowl
Pastry blender or fingertips

Method

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with butter. This prevents sticking and ensures easy serving.
Place the peeled and cubed sweet potatoes in a large pot. Cover them with cold water and bring to a boil over medium-high heat. Reduce the heat and simmer until the sweet potatoes are fork-tender, about 15-20 minutes. Drain them thoroughly in a colander.
3 lbs Sweet Potatoes
Transfer the drained sweet potatoes to a large mixing bowl. Add the 1/2 cup melted butter, 1/2 cup granulated sugar, 1/4 cup brown sugar, beaten eggs, milk, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Using a potato masher, fork, or electric mixer, mash until smooth and well combined. Taste and adjust seasonings if necessary.
1/2 cup Unsalted Butter, 1/2 cup Granulated Sugar, 1/4 cup Brown Sugar, 2 Large Eggs, 1/2 cup Milk, 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract, 1 teaspoon Ground Cinnamon, 1/2 teaspoon Ground Nutmeg, 1/2 teaspoon Salt
Pour the sweet potato mixture into the prepared baking dish. Spread it evenly with a spatula.
In a medium bowl, combine the chopped pecans, 1/4 cup brown sugar, and flour. Cut in the cold 1/4 cup butter using a pastry blender or your fingertips until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Sprinkle this topping evenly over the sweet potato mixture.
1 cup Pecans, 1/4 cup Brown Sugar, 2 tablespoons All-Purpose Flour, 1/4 cup Unsalted Butter
If using marshmallows, you can either add them directly to the casserole in the last 10-15 minutes of baking, or you can add them on top of the pecan topping for a combination.
1.5 cups Mini Marshmallows
Bake for 25-30 minutes if using a pecan topping, or until the topping is golden brown and the casserole is heated through and slightly bubbly around the edges. If using marshmallows, add them during the last 10-15 minutes of baking, and bake until they are golden brown and puffy. Keep a close eye on the marshmallows as they can toast quickly.
Remove from the oven and let rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the casserole to set slightly, making it easier to serve.

Notes

You'll adore this Classic Sweet Potato Casserole for its wonderfully creamy texture and perfectly balanced sweet-and-spicy flavor profile, making it the ultimate comfort food. Beyond its deliciousness, making it at home is incredibly cost-effective compared to store-bought versions or restaurant servings, allowing you to enjoy a gourmet side without breaking the bank. The magic truly happens with the topping, whether it's the delightful crunch of a brown sugar pecan crumble or the gooey, toasted sweetness of marshmallows—each bite offers a sensational contrast that elevates the entire dish.

This casserole surpasses even a simple baked sweet potato with its depth of flavor and luxurious consistency. It's a dish that promises to impress guests and satisfy cravings, becoming an instant family favorite. Don't just take our word for it—whip up a batch of this fantastic Classic Sweet Potato Casserole today and experience the warmth and joy it brings to your table!