Creamiest Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe Ever

Crafting a delectable sweet potato casserole has become my go-to comfort dish during chilly autumn evenings.

Warm memories flood back with each creamy spoonful of this classic Southern delight.

Marshmallow lovers and comfort food enthusiasts will adore this simple yet irresistible recipe.

Layers of velvety sweet potatoes meld perfectly with a crunchy pecan topping that adds delightful texture.

Minimal ingredients and straightforward preparation make this dish a breeze for home cooks of all skill levels.

Baking this casserole fills your kitchen with an inviting aroma that promises pure deliciousness.

You’ll want to savor every last bite of this crowd-pleasing side dish that turns ordinary meals into memorable gatherings.

Ingredients You’ll Use for Sweet Potato Casserole

• Sweet Potatoes: Orange-fleshed tubers that provide a creamy, rich foundation for the casserole. Choose firm potatoes with smooth, unblemished skin for best results.

• Butter: Adds richness and smooth texture to the mashed sweet potatoes. Unsalted butter works best for controlling overall dish seasoning.
• Milk, Heavy Cream: Helps create a silky, creamy consistency in the mashed sweet potatoes. Whole milk or heavy cream provides the most luxurious texture.

• Salt, Black Pepper: Essential for balancing and bringing out the natural sweetness of the sweet potatoes. Use freshly ground black pepper for maximum flavor.
• Brown Sugar: Intensifies the natural sweetness of the sweet potatoes and adds depth of flavor. Light or dark brown sugar can be used interchangeably.

Sweet Potato Casserole: How to Make It Easily

Step 1: Prepare Sweet Potato Base

Fill a large pot with water and bring to a rolling boil. Add cubed sweet potatoes and let them simmer until they’re soft enough to easily pierce with a fork, typically 15-20 minutes. Carefully drain the water and transfer potatoes to a mixing bowl. Mash the potatoes until they reach a smooth, creamy consistency using a potato masher or electric mixer.

• Sweet potatoes
• Water

Step 2: Create Creamy Mixture

• Butter
• Milk
• Vanilla extract
• Ground cinnamon
• Brown sugar

Stir until all ingredients are thoroughly combined and the mixture is silky and well-incorporated.

Step 3: Add Crunchy Topping

• Chopped pecans
• Brown sugar
• Flour
• Melted butter

Sprinkle this golden, nutty mixture evenly across the top of the sweet potato base.

Step 4: Bake To Perfection

Preheat the oven to 375°F. Transfer the sweet potato mixture to a baking dish and spread the pecan topping evenly. Bake for 25-30 minutes until the top turns a beautiful golden brown and the edges are slightly crispy.

Step 5: Cool And Serve

Remove from the oven and let the casserole rest for 10 minutes. This allows the flavors to settle and makes serving easier. Scoop onto plates and enjoy this warm, comforting dish that’s perfect for family gatherings or a cozy dinner.

Cooking Tips for a Creamy Sweet Potato Bake

• Smooth Mashing Technique: Use a potato masher or electric mixer for ultra-creamy sweet potatoes without lumps, ensuring a velvety texture in every bite.
• Prevent Watery Casserole: Drain sweet potatoes thoroughly and let them steam dry for a few minutes to remove excess moisture that could make the dish soggy.
• Flavor Boost Trick: Mix in a splash of vanilla extract or sprinkle of cinnamon while mashing to enhance the natural sweetness of the sweet potatoes.
• Make-Ahead Magic: Prepare the casserole up to two days in advance and store covered in the refrigerator, then bake when ready to serve for stress-free entertaining.
• Dietary Modification: Swap traditional butter for dairy-free alternatives like coconut oil or plant-based butter to make the recipe vegan-friendly and suitable for lactose-intolerant guests.

Storage and Reheat Details for Sweet Potato Casserole

• Store leftover casserole in an airtight container for up to 4 days, keeping it fresh and delicious in the fridge.
• Wrap the casserole tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 3 months for later enjoyment.
• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then warm at 350°F for 20-25 minutes until heated through, restoring its creamy texture.
• Scoop individual portions and heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each to ensure even warming and prevent dryness.

What to Pair with Sweet Potato Casserole

• Rich, creamy sweet potato casserole pairs beautifully with crisp, dry Riesling that cuts through the dish's sweetness.
• Roasted turkey or honey-glazed ham creates a perfect protein match, balancing the casserole's smooth texture and warm spices.
• Toasted pecans or candied walnuts sprinkled on top add delightful crunch and enhance the nutty undertones of the sweet potato base.
• Pinot Noir's light, fruity notes provide a delicate counterpoint to the casserole's rich, velvety character, making each bite more enjoyable.

Ways to Change Up the Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe

• Vegan Veggie Boost: Replace butter with coconut oil and use almond milk for a plant-based version. Add roasted nuts like pecans or walnuts for extra protein and crunch.
• Gluten-Free Comfort: Swap traditional flour with almond flour or gluten-free breadcrumbs if topping is used. Ensure all ingredients are certified gluten-free for sensitive diets.
• Low-Sugar Option: Substitute brown sugar with monk fruit sweetener or stevia. Reduce overall sugar content while maintaining the classic sweet potato flavor profile.
• Spiced Mediterranean Spin: Incorporate ground cinnamon, nutmeg, and a touch of cardamom. Sprinkle pumpkin seeds on top for a Mediterranean-inspired texture and taste enhancement.

Sweet Potato Casserole FAQs

• Is sweet potato casserole healthy?

Sweet potatoes are nutrient-dense, packed with vitamins A and C, fiber, and antioxidants. When prepared with minimal added sugar, this dish can be a nutritious side that offers more health benefits than traditional potato dishes.

• Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the casserole up to two days in advance. Prepare the sweet potato base, cover, and refrigerate. When ready to serve, add toppings and bake, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time to compensate for the chilled ingredients.

• What are the best sweet potatoes for this recipe?

Orange-fleshed sweet potatoes like Jewel or Garnet varieties work best. They have a naturally sweet flavor and creamy texture that makes them ideal for mashing and creating a smooth casserole base.

• How do I prevent my casserole from being watery?

Ensure you drain the sweet potatoes thoroughly after boiling and allow excess moisture to evaporate. Use a potato masher or ricer to create a smooth, thick consistency that won’t become runny during baking.

Why This Sweet Potato Casserole Works for Any Occasion

• This sweet potato casserole delivers pure homemade goodness with minimal effort and quick preparation.
• Affordable ingredients and simple cooking steps make this dish perfect for feeding a crowd without breaking the bank.
• Seamlessly transitions from weeknight dinner to festive holiday table, delighting everyone from kids to grandparents with its creamy, comforting texture.
• Packed with vitamins from sweet potatoes and offering a delicious way to incorporate healthy vegetables into your meal without sacrificing flavor.

Easy Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe

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4.6 from 33 reviews

• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 12 1x

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Description

Comforting sweet potato casserole brings Southern hospitality to your holiday table with creamy mashed potatoes topped by a crunchy pecan streusel. Rich flavors and classic textures make this dish perfect for family gatherings where you’ll savor every delightful bite.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Ingredients:

• 3 lbs (1.36 kg) sweet potatoes
• 2 large eggs
• ½ cup (120 ml) unsalted butter
• ½ cup (100 g) brown sugar

Liquid and Flavor Ingredients:

• ¼ cup (60 ml) milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ½ teaspoon cinnamon
• ½ teaspoon salt

Topping Ingredients:

• ½ cup (100 g) brown sugar
• ½ cup (60 g) all-purpose flour
• ½ cup (60 g) chopped pecans
• ¼ cup (60 ml) unsalted butter
• ½ teaspoon cinnamon
• 1 cup (50 g) mini marshmallows

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Instructions

1. Prepare a large pot with water and bring to a rolling boil over high heat.
2. Carefully add cubed sweet potatoes to the boiling water, ensuring they are fully submerged.
3. Simmer the sweet potatoes for 15-20 minutes, periodically testing their tenderness with a fork.
4. Once potatoes are easily pierced and soft, remove from heat and drain completely in a colander.
5. Transfer the drained sweet potatoes to a mixing bowl and mash thoroughly using a potato masher or electric mixer until a smooth, creamy consistency is achieved.
6. Ensure no large lumps remain, creating a uniform texture for the casserole base.

Notes

• Test potato tenderness by gently piercing with a fork; they should slide in smoothly without resistance.
• For ultra-creamy texture, use a hand mixer or ricer when mashing sweet potatoes to eliminate lumps.
• Consider adding roasted marshmallows or chopped pecans on top for extra crunch and caramelized flavor.
• Swap dairy ingredients with coconut milk and vegan butter to make this recipe completely plant-based and allergy-friendly.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Dinner, Side Dish
• Method: Boiling
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 12
• Calories: 360
• Sugar: 23 g
• Sodium: 150 mg
• Fat: 16 g
• Saturated Fat: 10 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 52 g
• Fiber: 4 g
• Protein: 5 g
• Cholesterol: 70 mg