Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe As The Best Thanksgiving Side Dish
Sweet Potato Casserole is the classic thanksgiving dish that combines velvety mashed sweet potatoes with a sweet, crunchy pecan topping for the perfect holiday side dish. This dish strikes the ideal balance between savory and sweet, making it a crowd-pleaser for gatherings or family dinners. The base features creamy mashed sweet potatoes enhanced with butter, brown sugar, and warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg, creating a rich and flavorful foundation.
The topping takes it to the next level with its blend of chopped pecans, brown sugar, and melted butter, adding a delightful crunch to each bite. For an extra touch of indulgence, a layer of golden, gooey marshmallows on top is a must-try, especially if you’re catering to kids or those with a sweet tooth.
This casserole pairs beautifully with roasted turkey, glazed ham, or any savory main course, making it a staple for Thanksgiving or Christmas feasts. It’s also versatile enough to be enjoyed year-round alongside grilled meats or even as a vegetarian main dish. Serve it warm from the oven for the best flavor and texture. Leftovers can be reheated easily, retaining their delightful creaminess and crunch. It’s a dish that tastes like a warm hug with every bite!
In the following section I’ll be sharing my easy-to-follow sweet potato casserole recipe with you so you and your family too can have something special as side dish for forthcoming thanksgiving.
Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe As The Best Thanksgiving Side Dish
Equipment
- large pot
- Potato masher or electric mixer
- Mixing bowls (2 medium-sized)
- 9x13-inch casserole dish
- wooden spoon or spatula
- Spatula Or wooden spoon
Ingredients
For the Sweet Potato Base:
- 4 large sweet potatoes about 2 lbs, peeled and cubed
- ½ cup unsalted butter melted
- ½ cup brown sugar
- ⅓ cup whole milk
- 2 large eggs lightly beaten
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ½ tsp ground cinnamon
- ¼ tsp nutmeg
- ¼ tsp salt
For the Topping:
- 1 cup pecans chopped
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- ½ cup brown sugar
- ¼ cup unsalted butter melted
- 1 cup mini marshmallows optional, for an extra sweet finish
Instructions
Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9x13-inch casserole dish.
Prepare the Sweet Potatoes:
- Place the cubed sweet potatoes in a large pot and cover with water.
- Bring to a boil over medium-high heat and cook until the potatoes are tender (about 15 minutes).
- Drain and return the potatoes to the pot.
Mash the Sweet Potatoes:
- Mash the sweet potatoes using a potato masher or electric mixer until smooth.
Mix the Sweet Potato Base:
- Add the melted butter, brown sugar, milk, eggs, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt to the mashed sweet potatoes.
- Mix until well combined and creamy.
Transfer to the Baking Dish:
- Spread the sweet potato mixture evenly in the prepared casserole dish.
Prepare the Topping:
- In a medium bowl, combine chopped pecans, flour, brown sugar, and melted butter. Mix until crumbly.
- Sprinkle the topping evenly over the sweet potato base.
Add Marshmallows (Optional):
- If using, scatter the mini marshmallows on top of the pecan mixture.
Bake:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the casserole is heated through.
Serve and Enjoy:
- Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving.
