This Sweet Potato Casserole is a warm and cozy dish that brings comfort to any table. With its creamy, spiced filling and crunchy pecan topping, it's perfect for family gatherings or holiday feasts. Let's get started on making this crowd-pleaser!
Sweet potatoes are the star of this dish, providing natural sweetness and a creamy texture. Granulated sugar enhances their natural flavor without overpowering it.
Eggs act as a binder, adding structure to the casserole, while melted butter gives it richness.
Whole milk adds a touch of creaminess, and vanilla extract gives a subtle warmth that complements the sweet potatoes.
A pinch of salt helps balance the sweetness of the dish.
The streusel topping made from brown sugar, all-purpose flour, softened butter, and chopped pecans adds a delightful crunch and caramel-like flavor.
This casserole pairs beautifully with roasted turkey or ham, making it a fantastic addition to holiday spreads. Consider serving it alongside a fresh green salad or sautéed greens to balance the richness. A glass of crisp white wine complements the sweet and savory notes perfectly.
First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x13-inch baking dish. This will prevent sticking and make clean-up easier later.
Next, peel and cube your sweet potatoes and boil them in a large pot of water until they're tender, which should take about 20 minutes. Drain them well to avoid excess moisture in your casserole.
Transfer the drained sweet potatoes to a large mixing bowl and mash them until smooth. You can use a potato masher for a bit of texture or an electric mixer for a creamier consistency.
Add the granulated sugar, eggs, melted butter, milk, vanilla extract, and salt to the mashed sweet potatoes. Mix everything until well combined and smooth.
Pour this sweet potato mixture into your prepared baking dish and spread it evenly with a spatula.
In a separate bowl, make the streusel topping by combining brown sugar, flour, softened butter, and chopped pecans. Mix until it forms a crumbly texture.
Sprinkle the streusel evenly over the sweet potato mixture, ensuring every bite will have a bit of that delicious topping.
Bake in your preheated oven for 30-35 minutes until the topping is golden brown and crispy. Let it cool slightly before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.