Here’s a classic Southern Sweet Potato Casserole—creamy, sweet, and topped with a buttery pecan crumble. I’ll give you step-by-step directions so it comes out perfectly every time.
🍠 Southern Sweet Potato Casserole
Yield
8–10 servings
Prep Time
20 minutes
Bake Time
30–35 minutes
🧾 Ingredients
Sweet Potato Filling
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4 cups mashed sweet potatoes (about 4–5 medium sweet potatoes)
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½ cup (115 g) unsalted butter, softened
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½ cup (100 g) granulated sugar
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½ cup (100 g) brown sugar, packed
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½ cup (120 ml) milk
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2 large eggs, beaten
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1 teaspoon vanilla extract
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½ teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
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¼ teaspoon salt
Pecan Topping
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1 cup (100 g) pecans, chopped
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½ cup (100 g) brown sugar, packed
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⅓ cup (40 g) all-purpose flour
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¼ cup (55 g) unsalted butter, melted
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Pinch of salt
🔧 Equipment
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9×13-inch casserole dish
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Medium and small mixing bowls
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Potato masher or mixer
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Spatula
🔥 Directions
1. Prepare the Sweet Potatoes
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Peel and cube sweet potatoes.
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Boil in a large pot of water until tender (15–20 minutes).
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Drain and mash until smooth (or use a mixer for extra creamy texture).
2. Make the Sweet Potato Filling
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In a medium bowl, combine mashed sweet potatoes, butter, sugar, brown sugar, milk, eggs, vanilla, cinnamon, and salt.
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Mix until smooth and creamy.
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Transfer mixture to a greased 9×13-inch casserole dish and spread evenly.
3. Make the Pecan Topping
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In a small bowl, combine chopped pecans, brown sugar, flour, melted butter, and a pinch of salt.
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Mix until crumbly.
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Sprinkle topping evenly over sweet potato filling.
4. Bake
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Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
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Bake casserole for 25–30 minutes, until topping is golden brown and filling is set.
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Remove from oven and let cool slightly before serving.
✨ Tips for the Best Casserole
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For extra creaminess, add ¼ cup cream or half-and-half to sweet potatoes.
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Toast pecans lightly for a richer nutty flavor.
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Make ahead: Assemble casserole up to 1 day in advance and refrigerate; bake just before serving.
🧊 Storage
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Cover and refrigerate leftovers for 3–4 days.
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Reheat in the oven at 325°F (160°C) until warmed through.