Southern Sweet Potato Casserole is a timeless holiday side dish that combines the natural sweetness of mashed sweet potatoes with a buttery, crunchy pecan topping. It’s the perfect balance of creamy and crunchy, making it one of the most popular Thanksgiving and Christmas recipes in Southern cuisine. This dish not only elevates your holiday table but also works beautifully for Sunday dinners, potlucks, and family gatherings.

In this article, we’ll walk through everything you need to know about making the perfect Southern Sweet Potato Casserole, including cooking tips, ingredient breakdowns, storage instructions, and common questions.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Perfect for Holidays: A staple on Thanksgiving and Christmas menus.
• Comfort Food at Its Best: Creamy sweet potatoes with a caramelized pecan topping.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Can be prepared in advance and baked just before serving.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Loved by kids and adults alike.

Ingredients Breakdown

For the Sweet Potato Base

• Sweet Potatoes (3 cups, mashed): Naturally sweet and creamy when boiled and mashed.
• Granulated Sugar (½ cup): Enhances the natural sweetness of the potatoes.
• Unsalted Butter (½ cup, softened): Adds richness and a velvety texture.
• Eggs (2 large, beaten): Help bind the casserole and provide structure.
• Vanilla Extract (1 teaspoon): Adds warm, aromatic flavor.
• Whole Milk (⅓ cup): Creates a smooth, creamy consistency.

For the Pecan Topping

• Unsalted Butter (⅓ cup, melted): Helps create the golden-brown crust.
• Light Brown Sugar (1 cup): Caramelizes beautifully in the oven.
• All-Purpose Flour (½ cup): Gives body and crispness to the topping.
• Chopped Pecans (1 cup): Add a crunchy, nutty finish that balances the sweetness.

Tips and Tricks

• Use Fresh Sweet Potatoes: Avoid canned varieties for the best flavor and texture.
• Mash Until Smooth: A hand mixer or potato masher works best for a lump-free base.
• Room Temperature Eggs and Butter: Helps everything blend evenly.
• Don’t Overbake: Once the topping is golden and bubbly, remove it to prevent burning.

Variations and Customizations

• Marshmallow Topping: Swap pecans for mini marshmallows for a gooey, kid-friendly version.
• Gluten-Free Option: Replace all-purpose flour with almond flour or oat flour.
• Healthier Twist: Cut down sugar and use honey or maple syrup instead.
• Nut-Free Option: Skip pecans and use rolled oats mixed with brown sugar and butter.

Pairing Suggestions

This casserole pairs beautifully with:

• Roast turkey or chicken
• Honey glazed ham
• Green bean casserole
• Fresh garden salad
• Homemade dinner rolls

Storage Instructions

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: Wrap tightly in foil and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
• Reheating: Warm in the oven at 325°F until heated through.

Popular Questions

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the base and topping separately a day in advance. Store in the fridge, then assemble and bake before serving.

Can I use canned sweet potatoes?

While possible, fresh sweet potatoes give the best flavor and texture.

How do I keep the topping crunchy?

Add the pecan topping just before baking to ensure it stays crisp.