Creamy mashed sweet potatoes topped with a buttery brown sugar–pecan crumble — Easy Sweet Potato Casserole (Pecan Crumble) transforms a holiday side into comfort perfection. It’s smooth, rich, and full of caramelized nutty crunch in every spoonful. Ideal for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any cozy family dinner, this easy casserole steals the show with minimal effort.
Introduction
Sweet potato casserole is one of those traditional dishes that feels like a warm hug. It’s creamy, sweet but not sugary, and the crisp pecan topping gives it the perfect balance of texture and flavor. Unlike the overly sweet marshmallow version, this recipe celebrates natural, buttery goodness—pure sweet potato flavor enhanced with vanilla, cinnamon, and a golden crumble baked on top.
It’s elegant enough for holidays yet simple enough to make on a weekday evening. Double the recipe for a crowd, make it ahead of time, and you’ve got a foolproof side dish that makes every plate shine.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Quick and easy: Ready in under an hour with basic pantry staples.
Perfectly balanced: Creamy base + crunchy topping = crowd favorite.
Simple ingredients: Nothing fancy—just classic flavors done right.
Make-ahead friendly: Prep ahead, bake before serving.
Great for holidays: A stress-free Thanksgiving or Christmas side.
No marshmallows needed—just real, hearty, homemade comfort.
What Makes It Special
This sweet potato casserole hits that holiday sweet spot between savory and dessert. The base is fluffy and buttery, spiced lightly with cinnamon and vanilla for depth. But the star is the pecan crumble topping, a quick mix of brown sugar, butter, flour, and pecans that bakes into a golden crust—sweet, nutty, and perfectly crisp. It’s indulgent, nostalgic, and always a hit on the table.
Essential Ingredients
Sweet Potato Filling
- 3 lbs sweet potatoes (about 4 large), peeled and cubed
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- ½ cup milk (or half and half for extra richness)
- ½ cup brown sugar (light or dark)
- 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- Pinch of salt
Pecan Crumble Topping
- ½ cup brown sugar
- ⅓ cup all-purpose flour
- 3 tbsp melted butter
- 1 cup chopped pecans
- Optional: pinch of salt or drizzle of maple syrup for flavor depth
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Boil the Sweet Potatoes
Peel and cut sweet potatoes into chunks. Add to a large pot of salted water and bring to a boil. Cook until fork-tender, about 15 minutes. Drain well.
Step 2: Mash and Mix
Mash the sweet potatoes until smooth. Add melted butter, milk, brown sugar, eggs, vanilla, cinnamon, and salt. Stir or whisk until the mixture is completely combined and creamy.
Step 3: Layer the Casserole
Spread the sweet potato mixture evenly into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
Step 4: Make the Pecan Crumble
In a separate bowl, mix brown sugar, flour, melted butter, and chopped pecans. Stir until crumbly and well coated.
Step 5: Assemble and Bake
Sprinkle the pecan crumble evenly over the sweet potato layer. Bake uncovered at 350°F (175°C) for 30–35 minutes or until the topping is golden brown and crisp.
Let rest 5–10 minutes before serving — the topping caramelizes slightly as it cools.
Pro Tips for Success
- For creamier texture: Use an electric mixer or food processor to mash potatoes smoothly.
- Balance the sweetness: Add a tablespoon of orange juice or zest for a hint of brightness.
- Super crisp topping: Sprinkle a little extra butter over the crumble before baking.
- Make ahead: Assemble the casserole without baking, refrigerate up to 24 hours, then bake fresh.
- Serving trick: Sprinkle sea salt flakes on top for sweet-salty contrast.
Serving Suggestions
Serve alongside:
- Roasted turkey or ham
- Green bean casserole
- Cranberry sauce
- Soft dinner rolls or buttermilk biscuits
Or enjoy leftovers as a dessert by adding a drizzle of heavy cream or caramel sauce!
Variations and Customizations
Maple version: Add 2 tbsp pure maple syrup to the filling.
Nut-free option: Replace pecans with oats or shredded coconut.
Savory touch: Reduce sugar and add a sprinkle of parmesan to the topping.
Mini casseroles: Bake in ramekins for individual servings.
Vegan-friendly: Use plant-based butter, almond milk, and skip the eggs.
Why It Works
Sweet potatoes naturally balance sweetness and creaminess beautifully. Adding eggs gives body, while butter and milk create a custard-like richness. The pecan crumble topping bakes golden and crumbly, creating contrast in every bite. The warmth of cinnamon and vanilla ties everything together into one perfect, comforting dish.
Nutrition Snapshot (per serving)
Calories: 320
Carbohydrates: 35g
Fat: 17g
Protein: 4g
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 21g
Comforting, satisfying, and perfectly portioned for sharing.
Storage & Reheating
Refrigerate: Store leftovers in airtight container up to 4 days.
Freeze: Freeze baked casserole up to 2 months (cover tightly). Thaw overnight before reheating.
Reheat: Bake at 325°F covered for 15–20 minutes, then uncover to crisp topping.
Perfect Pairings
| Dish | Why It Works |
|---|---|
| Roast turkey | Classic Thanksgiving combination |
| Maple-glazed ham | Doubles the sweet-savory harmony |
| Brussel sprouts | Balances sweetness with earthy crunch |
| Apple cider or chai | Cozy flavor match |
Conclusion
Easy Sweet Potato Casserole (Pecan Crumble) is the ultimate holiday side — creamy, buttery sweet potatoes crowned with a nutty, golden topping that crunches at first bite and melts into caramel warmth. Perfect for feeding a crowd or dressing up your cozy family meal, it’s simple, elegant, and completely irresistible.
Make it once and you’ll never need another sweet potato casserole recipe again — this one’s the definition of comfort baked to perfection.
