Southern Sweet Potato Casserole is a delightfully creamy and flavorful dish that’s topped with a buttery, crunchy pecan streusel. It’s not heavy or overly sweet either.

I think it’s a perfect Thanksgiving or holiday side dish, and if you’re not a fan of pecans, feel free to omit them. It will still be undeniably delicious! If you’re looking for a comforting & rich side dish that’s not overly heavy, you’ve come to the right place. When you make a smooth and sweet sweet potato base and pair it with a crisp, nutty topping you get the perfect casserole. The addition of marshmallows just sends it over the top. I’ve really been in the mood for cozy, fall flavors, and this dreamy casserole reminds me of festive family gatherings and warm holiday meals. Not a fan of pecans? Don’t worry, it’s still delicious without them.

Kitchen Equipment Needed

Large pot
Potato masher or electric mixer
Mixing bowls
9×13-inch baking dish
Measuring cups and spoons
Wooden spoon or spatula

Ingredients

Sweet Potato Base:

4 cups mashed sweet potatoes (about 3-4 large sweet potatoes)
1/2 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs, beaten
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
1/2 cup milk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon salt

Pecan Streusel Topping:

1 cup brown sugar
1/3 cup all-purpose flour
1/3 cup unsalted butter, melted
1 cup chopped pecans

Optional Topping:

1 1/2 cups mini marshmallows

Directions

Preheat Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Prepare Sweet Potatoes:
- Peel and chop the sweet potatoes into chunks. Place them in a large pot and cover with water. Bring to a boil and cook until tender, about 15-20 minutes. Drain and mash the sweet potatoes until smooth.
Mix Sweet Potato Base:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed sweet potatoes, granulated sugar, beaten eggs, melted butter, milk, vanilla extract, and salt. Mix until well combined and smooth.
Spread in Baking Dish:
- Spread the sweet potato mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish.
Prepare Pecan Streusel Topping:
- In a separate mixing bowl, combine the brown sugar, flour, melted butter, and chopped pecans. Mix until crumbly.
Add Topping:
- Sprinkle the pecan streusel evenly over the sweet potato mixture.
Bake:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the casserole is heated through.
Optional Marshmallow Topping:
- If using marshmallows, sprinkle them evenly over the top of the casserole during the last 5 minutes of baking. Return to the oven and bake until the marshmallows are golden and puffed.
Serve:
- Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy warm.

Prep Time:

30 minutes

Cook Time:

30 minutes

Total Time:

1 hour

Nutrition (per serving, based on 12 servings):

Calories: 340
Total Fat: 17g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Cholesterol: 70mg
Sodium: 180mg
Total Carbohydrate: 44g
Dietary Fiber: 3g
Sugars: 28g
Protein: 3g

Enjoy this rich and comforting Southern Sweet Potato Casserole, perfect for any holiday meal or festive gathering!