There are few dishes that capture the heart of Southern cooking quite like Southern Sweet Potato Casserole. Creamy, buttery sweet potatoes are whipped into a silky base, lightly sweetened and spiced, then crowned with either a golden pecan streusel topping or a layer of gooey toasted marshmallows (or both, if you’re feeling indulgent). This iconic side dish strikes the perfect balance between savory comfort and dessert-like sweetness, making it a star on Thanksgiving tables and holiday gatherings.
What makes it irresistible? It’s the combination of flavors and textures: velvety mashed sweet potatoes, buttery crunch from pecans, and the caramelized sweetness of brown sugar. Each spoonful delivers warmth, nostalgia, and pure Southern comfort.
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Ingredients for Southern Sweet Potato Casserole
Each ingredient is carefully chosen to create a rich and balanced dish:
For the Sweet Potato Base
4 large sweet potatoes (about 3 lbs) – Naturally sweet, creamy, and the foundation of the casserole.
½ cup granulated sugar – Enhances the natural sweetness without overpowering.
2 large eggs – Add richness and help bind the filling.
½ cup unsalted butter, melted – Adds silkiness and deep flavor.
½ cup whole milk (or heavy cream for extra richness) – Makes the mixture creamy and smooth.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Infuses warmth and depth.
½ teaspoon cinnamon + ¼ teaspoon nutmeg – Classic spices that elevate the flavor without overwhelming.
Pinch of salt – Balances the sweetness and enhances all flavors.
For the Pecan Streusel Topping
1 cup chopped pecans – Provides a nutty crunch that contrasts beautifully with the soft filling.
1 cup brown sugar – Creates a caramel-like sweetness.
⅓ cup all-purpose flour – Helps form the crumble texture.
⅓ cup unsalted butter, melted – Binds the topping and makes it irresistibly crisp.
(Optional: Replace the streusel with mini marshmallows for a nostalgic, gooey finish—or go half-and-half for the best of both worlds.)
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Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Cook the sweet potatoes – Peel and cut sweet potatoes into chunks. Boil in salted water until fork-tender (about 20 minutes), then drain well.
2. Mash and mix – In a large bowl, mash the hot sweet potatoes until smooth. Stir in sugar, melted butter, eggs, milk, vanilla, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Mix until creamy.
3. Prepare the topping – In a separate bowl, combine brown sugar, flour, melted butter, and pecans. Stir until a crumbly mixture forms.
4. Assemble the casserole – Spread the sweet potato mixture evenly into a greased 9x13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle the pecan streusel over the top.
5. Bake – Bake uncovered at 350°F (175°C) for 30–35 minutes, until the topping is golden brown and the casserole is set.
6. Optional marshmallow finish – For a classic twist, add mini marshmallows during the last 10 minutes of baking until golden and gooey.
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Why This Recipe Is Loved
Holiday Staple – A dish that’s just as essential as turkey or stuffing.
Family-Friendly – Loved by kids and adults alike, thanks to its dessert-like appeal.
Make-Ahead Friendly – Prepare the filling a day in advance, refrigerate, and bake when ready.
Flexible Topping Options – Streusel for crunch, marshmallows for nostalgia, or both for ultimate indulgence.
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Pro Tips for the Best Sweet Potato Casserole
Dry your sweet potatoes well after boiling—excess water can make the filling runny.
Use roasted sweet potatoes instead of boiled for a deeper, caramelized flavor.
Don’t overmix once the eggs are added; this keeps the casserole light and fluffy.
Add bourbon or orange zest to the filling for a sophisticated flavor twist.
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Serving Suggestions
Pair this Southern Sweet Potato Casserole with:
Roast turkey or ham – The sweetness balances savory meats.
Green bean casserole or roasted Brussels sprouts – Adds earthy contrast.
Cranberry sauce – Complements the dish with tart brightness.
Dinner rolls – Perfect for soaking up every last bit.
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Final Thoughts
This Southern Sweet Potato Casserole is more than just a side dish—it’s a holiday tradition and a crowd-pleaser that bridges the gap between savory and sweet. Wit
h its creamy sweet potato base and buttery pecan topping, it’s easy to see why this recipe has stood the test of time.
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