Baked Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecan Streusel Recipe

If you have a soft spot for cozy, comforting dishes that bring a bit of sweetness and a delightful crunch to the table, you’re going to love this Baked Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecan Streusel Recipe. It’s the kind of recipe that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day, combining creamy mashed sweet potatoes with a heavenly pecan streusel topping that bakes up crisp and fragrant. This casserole is perfect as a side for holiday feasts or as a soul-satisfying snack anytime you crave that balance of rich, sweet, and nutty flavors. Plus, it’s simple to make and has just the right amount of spice to keep everyone reaching for seconds.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering your ingredients is a joyful first step because each one plays a key role in crafting the perfect Baked Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecan Streusel Recipe. From the natural sweetness of the potatoes to the aromatic spices and buttery pecans in the streusel, this list might look straightforward but packs layers of flavor and texture.

• Sweet potatoes (3-4, about 2.5 pounds): The creamy base for the casserole, mashed to silky perfection.
• Butter (5 tablespoons + 1/2 cup melted): Adds richness and helps create that luscious, tender filling and crunchy streusel.
• Milk (1/2 cup): Keeps the sweet potato filling smooth without weighing it down.
• Brown sugar (3/4 cup + 1/2 cup): Brings deep caramel notes both in the filling and streusel topping.
• Kosher salt (1 1/2 teaspoons + 1/2 teaspoon): Balances sweetness and enhances all the flavors.
• Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Adds a gentle warmth and complexity.
• Fresh lemon juice (1 tablespoon): Brightens the sweet potatoes, preventing the dish from becoming too heavy.
• Eggs (2 large): Help bind the filling with a delightful fluffiness.
• All-purpose flour (1 1/2 cups): The base for the streusel, creating that perfect crumbly texture.
• Granulated sugar (1/4 cup): Adds extra sweetness and crunch to the topping.
• Cinnamon (1 tablespoon): Infuses the streusel with cozy spice reminiscent of fall flavors.
• Nutmeg (1/2 teaspoon): Provides a subtle warmth that rounds out the spice profile.
• Cardamom (1/4 teaspoon): A hint of exotic spice that makes the topping unique and fragrant.
• Chopped pecans (1 cup + 1/3 cup for topping): The star crunch element scattered throughout the streusel and added mid-bake for extra texture.

How to Make Baked Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecan Streusel Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Sweet Potatoes

Start by preparing your sweet potatoes because they form the cozy heart of the casserole. You can choose between baking or boiling — baking is slower but intensifies the flavor, while boiling is faster and gets the job done efficiently.

Step 2: Baking Method

For the best flavor, preheat your oven to 400 degrees F. Pierce each sweet potato a few times with a fork and place them on a foil-lined pan. Roasting for 45-60 minutes makes them tender and caramelized, setting up that signature rich sweetness in the filling.

Step 3: Boiling Method

If you’re short on time, peel and cut the sweet potatoes into chunks. Boil them in water for 25-30 minutes until fork-tender. Drain thoroughly to avoid excess moisture in the casserole, ensuring a creamy yet firm filling.

Step 4: Make the Sweet Potato Filling

Once cooked, scoop out about 5 cups of sweet potato flesh into a large bowl. Add 5 tablespoons of butter, 1/2 cup milk, 3/4 cup brown sugar, 1 1/2 teaspoons kosher salt (slightly less if you use table salt), 1 teaspoon vanilla, 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice, and 2 eggs. This combination creates the ideal balance of sweet, creamy, and tangy flavors.

Step 5: Mash to Perfection

Mash all the ingredients with a potato masher until smooth, or use a hand mixer for a fluffier texture without lumps. This step is crucial for that luscious, silky base that contrasts beautifully with the crunchy topping.

Step 6: Assemble the Base

Spread the sweet potato mixture evenly in a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Smooth the top to create an even layer ready for the streusel. You can refrigerate the casserole at this point if making ahead of time.

Step 7: Preheat for Baking

Set your oven to 350 degrees F to prepare for the final bake that brings the entire dish together with golden perfection.

Step 8: Prepare the Pecan Streusel

In a medium bowl, combine 1 1/2 cups flour, 1/2 cup brown sugar, 1/4 cup granulated sugar, 1/2 teaspoon salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, cardamom, and 1 cup chopped pecans. Whisk well to distribute the spices and nuts evenly.

Step 9: Combine Streusel with Butter

Melt the remaining 1/2 cup butter in a large bowl, then add in the dry streusel mix. Stir carefully to coat all the dry ingredients with butter, creating moist, clumpy crumbs perfect for topping.

Step 10: Apply the Streusel

Using your hands or a spatula, crumble the streusel over the sweet potato base in large chunks for a rustic, crunchy texture that holds together nicely through baking.

Step 11: Bake to Golden Perfection

Bake the casserole at 350 degrees for 25-30 minutes until the streusel is crisp, dry, and slightly browned. About halfway through, sprinkle an extra 1/3 cup chopped pecans on top for added crunch and eye-catching appeal.

Step 12: Serve Warm and Enjoy

Remove from the oven and serve warm to enjoy that luxurious combination of creamy sweet potatoes and crunchy pecan streusel. It’s an addictive treat that keeps everyone coming back for more!

How to Serve Baked Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecan Streusel Recipe

Garnishes

For a festive flair, feel free to sprinkle a little extra chopped pecans or a light dusting of cinnamon on top just before serving. A drizzle of maple syrup or a dollop of whipped cream can also amp up the sweetness for a decadent finish.

Side Dishes

This casserole pairs beautifully with savory mains like roasted turkey or baked ham, perfect for holiday spreads. It also complements green vegetable sides such as sautéed green beans or Brussels sprouts, balancing hearty and fresh flavors.

Creative Ways to Present

Consider serving this casserole in individual ramekins for elegant single portions, or pack it in clear glass dishes so the layers of smooth sweet potato and crunchy streusel show off their inviting textures. Adding edible flowers or fresh herbs near the serving platter can give it a fresh, seasonal touch.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Any leftovers should be covered tightly and refrigerated within two hours of baking. The casserole will keep well for up to 3 days, and you’ll find that flavors deepen even more overnight.

Freezing

This Baked Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecan Streusel Recipe freezes beautifully. Assemble the casserole without baking, wrap it well in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge before baking as directed.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers in a 350 degree F oven for about 20 minutes, or until heated through and the streusel topping regains some crispiness. Avoid microwaving if you want to keep that perfect crunchy texture on top.

FAQs

Can I make this casserole vegan?

To make a vegan-friendly version, substitute the butter with a plant-based margarine or coconut oil, use a non-dairy milk option, and swap the eggs for flax or chia egg replacers. The flavor may shift slightly, but it will still be delicious!

What if I don’t have fresh lemon juice?

If fresh lemon juice isn’t available, a splash of apple cider vinegar works as a great substitute to brighten the sweet potatoes and balance the sweetness.

Why do you add pecans halfway through baking?

Adding some pecans halfway through prevents them from burning and maintains their crunch and fresh flavor, making the topping extra special and visually appealing.

Can I prepare this casserole the day before Thanksgiving?

Absolutely! You can prepare the sweet potato filling, assemble the casserole, and refrigerate it covered overnight. On the big day, just add the streusel topping and bake as directed for a fresh-out-of-the-oven experience.

Can I substitute the spices?

Yes! While cinnamon, nutmeg, and cardamom create the classic flavor profile here, you can experiment by adding ginger or allspice to tailor it to your taste preferences.

Final Thoughts

There’s nothing quite like the comforting magic of a well-made Baked Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecan Streusel Recipe to elevate your holiday table or bring warmth to an everyday meal. Once you try this recipe, it’s sure to become one of your go-to dishes for celebrations and cozy nights alike. So gather up those sweet potatoes, toast those pecans, and dive into the deliciousness — your taste buds will thank you!

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