Name: Sweet Potato Casserole
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 cups sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed; 1/2 cup brown sugar; 2 large eggs; 1/3 cup milk or heavy cream; 1/4 cup melted butter; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg; 1/2 teaspoon salt; Streusel Topping:; 1/2 cup brown sugar; 1/3 cup all-purpose flour; 1/4 cup cold butter, cubed; 1/2 cup chopped pecans; Optional: 1 cup mini marshmallows

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Sweet potato casserole is a rich, comforting side dish that brings a perfect balance of sweet and savory to the table. Creamy mashed sweet potatoes are topped with a golden, buttery streusel topping—sometimes with toasted marshmallows—for a dish that’s just as welcome at a holiday feast as it is at a cozy family dinner.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how this casserole combines smooth, spiced sweet potatoes with a crunchy, sweet topping that adds texture and flavor. It’s a nostalgic dish for me—something I always look forward to during the holidays. Whether I go classic with pecans or playful with marshmallows, it always feels like the perfect comfort food that pleases both kids and adults alike. Sweet Potato Casserole

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the sweet potato base:

Sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
Brown sugar
Eggs
Milk or heavy cream
Butter, melted
Vanilla extract
Ground cinnamon
Ground nutmeg
Salt

For the streusel topping:

Brown sugar
All-purpose flour
Butter, cold and cubed
Chopped pecans

Optional topping:

Mini marshmallows

Directions

I start by boiling the sweet potatoes in salted water for 15–20 minutes, until fork-tender. Then I drain and mash them until smooth.
In a large bowl, I combine the mashed sweet potatoes with brown sugar, eggs, milk, melted butter, vanilla, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. I mix until fully blended.
I spread the sweet potato mixture evenly in a greased baking dish.
In a separate bowl, I mix the brown sugar and flour, then cut in the cold butter until the mixture is crumbly. I stir in the chopped pecans.
I sprinkle the streusel evenly over the sweet potato mixture.
I bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25–30 minutes, until the topping is golden and the filling is set.
If I’m adding marshmallows, I sprinkle them on during the last 5–10 minutes of baking, just until golden and gooey.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 8–10 servings.
Prep time: 20 minutes
Cook time: 30 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes

Variations

Sometimes I skip the pecans and go full marshmallow topping for a classic childhood version. I’ve also made a maple-sweetened version using pure maple syrup in the filling. For a more savory take, I reduce the sugar and add a bit of rosemary or thyme to the mashed potatoes.

Storage/Reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. To reheat, I use the oven at 325°F until warmed through or microwave individual portions. This casserole also freezes well—I prepare it ahead, freeze before baking, then thaw in the fridge overnight and bake as usual. Sweet Potato Casserole

FAQs

Can I make sweet potato casserole ahead of time?

Yes, I often prepare the casserole up to a day in advance and refrigerate it unbaked. I bake it fresh before serving. The topping holds up great.

Can I use canned sweet potatoes?

Yes, I’ve used canned sweet potatoes in a pinch. I just make sure to drain them well and adjust the sugar since they’re sometimes already sweetened.

What’s the best topping—streusel or marshmallows?

That depends on what I’m in the mood for! Streusel adds crunch and richness, while marshmallows bring a gooey, nostalgic sweetness. Sometimes I do both.

How do I make this dairy-free?

I use plant-based butter and non-dairy milk like almond or oat milk. The result is still creamy and delicious.

Can I freeze leftovers?

Absolutely. I portion it into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months. To reheat, I thaw overnight and warm in the oven.

Conclusion

Sweet potato casserole is one of those classic dishes that never goes out of style. It’s warm, cozy, and always the first thing to disappear at the table. Whether I’m making it for Thanksgiving or just because I need a little comfort food, this casserole is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.