Thanksgiving Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe

 Thanksgiving isn’t just about turkey; it’s about the sides that bring the whole meal together. And no dish embodies the cozy, festive spirit of the season quite like Sweet Potato Casserole. This classic recipe is a delightful balance of creamy sweet potato base and crunchy topping, creating a comforting, crowd-pleasing side that’s just as good as dessert. Whether you’re hosting or bringing a dish to share, this casserole is bound to steal the spotlight.

Ingredients

For the Sweet Potato Base:

• 4 large sweet potatoes (about 3 pounds), peeled and cubed
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1/3 cup milk
• 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• Pinch of salt

For the Topping:

• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1/2 cup chopped pecans
• 1 cup mini marshmallows (optional but highly recommended)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Sweet Potatoes

1. Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and greasing a 9x13-inch baking dish.
2. Place the peeled and cubed sweet potatoes in a large pot, cover them with cold water, and add a pinch of salt. Boil over medium-high heat for about 15–20 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes are fork-tender. Drain and allow the potatoes to cool slightly.

Step 2: Make the Sweet Potato Mixture

1. Transfer the cooked sweet potatoes to a large mixing bowl. Mash them with a potato masher or hand mixer until smooth.
2. Add the melted butter, milk, brown sugar, eggs, vanilla, cinnamon, nutmeg, and a pinch of salt. Mix well until all ingredients are fully incorporated and the mixture is creamy. Taste and adjust sweetness or seasoning if needed.
3. Spread the sweet potato mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish.

Step 3: Prepare the Topping

1. For the crumbly pecan topping, mix the flour, brown sugar, and softened butter in a medium bowl until it resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in the chopped pecans for added crunch.
2. Sprinkle the topping evenly over the sweet potato base. If using marshmallows, sprinkle them on top of the pecan mixture for a gooey, golden finish.

Step 4: Bake the Casserole

1. Bake the casserole in the preheated oven for 25–30 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and slightly crisp. The marshmallows, if used, should be just toasted.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

1. Remove the casserole from the oven and allow it to cool for 5–10 minutes before serving. Enjoy it warm as a side dish alongside turkey, green beans, and cranberry sauce—or sneak a bite later as a sweet treat!

Tips and Variations

• Make It Ahead: Save time on Thanksgiving Day by preparing the sweet potato mixture and the topping separately a day ahead. Store them in the fridge, and assemble and bake when you’re ready.
• Nut-Free Option: For a nut-free version, omit the pecans and replace them with an equal amount of crushed graham crackers or oats.
• Vegan-Friendly: Swap butter for a plant-based alternative, use almond or oat milk, and replace eggs with flaxseed (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed + 3 tablespoons water equals 1 egg).
• Add a Twist: If you’re looking for something different, mix in a handful of shredded coconut or dried cranberries to the topping. These additions add a new layer of flavor to the traditional dish.
• Adjust the Sweetness: If you prefer a slightly less sweet casserole, reduce the sugar in the base and rely more on the natural sweetness of the sweet potatoes.

This Thanksgiving Sweet Potato Casserole is more than a recipe; it’s a slice of tradition that brings warmth and nostalgia to your holiday table. Whether you’ve been making it for years or trying it for the first time, this dish captures the essence of Thanksgiving with every bite.