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Cozy Loaded Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecan Streusel

loaded sweet potato casserole - featured image

A comforting sweet potato casserole topped with a buttery, crunchy pecan streusel. Perfect for cozy weeknights or holiday gatherings, this recipe balances creamy, subtly spiced sweet potatoes with a nutty, golden topping.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 large sweet potatoes (about 2 pounds or 900 grams), peeled and cubed
  • 4 tablespoons (57 grams) unsalted butter, divided
  • 1/4 cup (50 grams) brown sugar for the mash
  • 1/3 cup (65 grams) brown sugar for the streusel topping
  • 1 large egg, room temperature
  • 1/4 cup (60 ml) milk (whole or 2%)
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 cup (120 grams) chopped pecans
  • 1/3 cup (40 grams) all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt

Instructions

  1. Peel and cube the sweet potatoes into roughly 1-inch pieces. Place them in a large pot, cover with cold water, add a pinch of salt, and bring to a boil over high heat. Cook for 15-20 minutes until fork-tender.
  2. Drain the potatoes well and return them to the pot or a large bowl. Mash using a hand mixer or potato masher until mostly smooth but still slightly textured.
  3. While still warm, stir in 4 tablespoons softened butter, 1/4 cup brown sugar, 1 large egg, 1/4 cup milk, 1 teaspoon cinnamon, 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg (optional), 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, and 1/2 teaspoon salt. Mix until creamy and well combined. Adjust seasoning if needed.
  4. In a small skillet over medium heat, melt 4 tablespoons butter and cook until golden brown and fragrant (3-5 minutes). Remove from heat and transfer to a mixing bowl.
  5. Stir in 1/3 cup brown sugar, 1/3 cup all-purpose flour, and 1 cup chopped pecans. Mix with a fork or fingers until crumbly and well combined.
  6. Spread the sweet potato mixture evenly into a prepared 9×13 inch casserole dish.
  7. Sprinkle the pecan streusel topping evenly over the sweet potatoes.
  8. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the casserole for 25-30 minutes until the streusel is golden brown and crispy, and the filling is set but still slightly soft in the center.
  9. Let the casserole rest for about 10 minutes before serving to firm up and allow flavors to meld.

Notes

Avoid over-mashing the sweet potatoes to prevent a gluey texture. Brown the butter carefully for the streusel to achieve a nutty aroma without burning. If pecans brown too quickly during baking, cover loosely with foil for the last 10 minutes. For vegan versions, substitute butter with dairy-free butter or oil, milk with plant-based milk, and egg with a flax egg or vegan replacer.

Nutrition

Keywords: sweet potato casserole, pecan streusel, comfort food, holiday side dish, easy casserole, fall recipe