Delicious sweet potato casserole topped with crunchy pecans, served in a baking dish.

Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecan Topping

31 décembre 2025 par Chef Hanna Zest

Introduction

This speedy sweet potato casserole gives you cozy, classic flavor with almost no fuss. It uses pantry staples and a simple pecan crumble to add crunch and depth in under an hour. Perfect for weeknight sides or a last minute holiday addition, the recipe scales easily and won’t keep you in the kitchen. If you love quick sweets, pair it with a contrasting bite like our mascarpone stuffed dates with maple drizzle for an elegant finish.

Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecan Topping

Why This Recipe Works

The base is a smooth mash that holds moisture so the dish stays creamy while the oven crisps the topping. Combining melted butter and beaten eggs keeps the filling rich yet quick to mix, and vanilla lifts the whole flavor profile. The pecan crumble requires no rolling or chilling so you can make it while the oven heats. Baking time is short so you get a golden top and warm filling without babysitting. Every ingredient is common, which makes substitutions and shortcuts easy if you are short on time or supplies. The method is forgiving so you can double it, halve it, or swap textures without losing the essential sweet and nutty balance.

Flavor and Texture

This casserole balances the natural sweetness of the potatoes with brown sugar and butter in the topping for caramel notes. Chopped pecans add toasted crunch against a velvety filling. Vanilla and a touch of salt bring out the sweet potato’s depth while eggs and milk create a custardy interior. The contrast between the soft center and the crisp topping is the big payoff here. Serve warm so the textures are most pronounced and the aroma fills the room.

Ingredients

2 cups mashed sweet potatoes
1/2 cup sugar
1/4 cup milk
1/4 cup butter, melted
2 eggs, beaten
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup chopped pecans
1/2 cup brown sugar
1/4 cup flour
1/4 cup butter, softened

Step by Step Instructions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a large bowl, mix together the mashed sweet potatoes, sugar, milk, melted butter, beaten eggs, vanilla extract, and salt until well combined.
Pour the mixture into a greased baking dish.
In a separate bowl, combine the chopped pecans, brown sugar, flour, and softened butter. Mix until crumbly.
Sprinkle the pecan topping evenly over the sweet potato mixture.
Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown.
Let it cool slightly before serving.

Quick Tips and Shortcuts

Use canned or pre-roasted sweet potatoes if you want to skip peeling and baking; drain and mash them well first. Buy pre-chopped pecans to save a minute or two and toast them lightly in a pan for extra flavor. Melted butter blends into the filling faster than softened butter so use that when you’re in a hurry. Make the topping ahead and stash it in the fridge to save prep time right before baking. If you want a savory companion, try serving with a warm bowl of our cozy vegan potato soup for a comforting combo.

Storage and Meal Prep

Cool completely before covering and refrigerating for up to three days. Reheat single portions in the microwave or warm the whole dish in a 350°F oven until heated through, about 15 to 20 minutes. The texture of the topping softens in the fridge; to revive the crisp, reheat uncovered for a few minutes. For longer storage, freeze portions in airtight containers for up to two months and thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Short Closing Note

This casserole is fast, forgiving, and crowd pleasing, which makes it a go to when time is tight. Follow the simple steps and you’ll have a warm, homey dish with little effort.

Conclusion

For a slightly different buttery pecan take and extra technique notes, check out Sweet Potato Casserole with Buttery Pecan Topping – Mel’s Kitchen Cafe for inspiration and variations.

FAQ

Can this be made in under 30 minutes?

Yes, the recipe is designed to be quick and efficient.

Does it work for meal prep?

Most versions store well for one to three days.

Can I customize the ingredients?

Yes, simple swaps can be made for convenience or dietary needs.