Old-Fashioned Sweet Potato Casserole

Buttery, sweet, and topped with a golden pecan streusel, this Old-Fashioned Sweet Potato Casserole is the kind of dish that makes holidays (and regular dinners) unforgettable. It’s creamy, rich, and perfectly spiced with warm cinnamon and brown sugar. Every bite melts in your mouth, and the contrast between the smooth filling and crunchy topping is pure comfort food magic.

Whether you’re serving this dish for Thanksgiving, Christmas, Easter, or just because it sounds delicious on a Sunday, it always brings that nostalgic, homemade feeling to the table. Did you know sweet potato casseroles like this became popular in the early 1900s when marshmallows were introduced as a “modern twist”? We’re going old-school here, though with a buttery pecan topping that’s both rustic and refined.

And the best part? It’s incredibly easy to prepare, make-ahead friendly, and totally crowd-pleasing. If you grew up on this dish, it’s time to bring it back. If you’ve never had it, prepare to fall in love.

What is Old-Fashioned Sweet Potato Casserole?

Imagine mashed sweet potatoes whipped with butter, sugar, vanilla, and eggs until smooth and silky, then baked beneath a golden-brown topping of brown sugar and chopped pecans. That’s the magic of an Old-Fashioned Sweet Potato Casserole. It’s dessert disguised as a side dish who’s complaining? This Southern classic has graced holiday tables for generations, earning its place with every bite. And let’s be honest: the way to anyone’s heart is through something baked, buttery, and topped with pecans. Ready to scoop into the ultimate comfort dish? Let’s go!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This casserole is a sweet-and-savory gem that delivers everything you want from a holiday side:

• Creamy mashed sweet potatoes with buttery richness
• Warm flavors of vanilla, cinnamon, and brown sugar
• A golden, crunchy pecan topping that’s pure heaven
• Perfect for make-ahead meals, holiday spreads, or Sunday dinners
• Naturally gluten-free, with easy dairy-free or nut-free swaps

It’s also an affordable way to serve a crowd. Sweet potatoes are budget-friendly, and this recipe uses pantry staples that you likely already have. Plus, it reheats beautifully—so it’s even better the next day.

How to Make Old-Fashioned Sweet Potato Casserole

Quick Overview

This recipe is all about comfort and simplicity. You’ll cook the sweet potatoes, mash them with flavor boosters, pour into a baking dish, top with pecans and brown sugar, and bake until golden. That’s it! No fuss, no mystery just classic goodness every time.

Key Ingredients

Ingredient	Quantity	Preparation
Sweet potatoes	3 cups mashed (about 3 large)	Cooked, peeled, and mashed
Butter	1/2 cup	Melted
Brown sugar	1/2 cup	Light or dark
Eggs	2 large	Lightly beaten
Milk	1/3 cup	Whole or 2% preferred
Vanilla extract	1 tsp	Pure extract preferred
Salt	1/2 tsp	To balance sweetness
Ground cinnamon	1/2 tsp	Optional, for warmth
Pecans (chopped)	1/2 cup	For the topping
All-purpose flour	1/3 cup	For the topping
More brown sugar	1/3 cup	For the topping
Butter (softened)	3 tbsp	For the topping

Step-by-Step Instructions

Cook the Sweet Potatoes

Peel and cube your sweet potatoes, then boil them in a large pot of water until fork-tender about 15 minutes. Drain and let cool slightly before mashing. You can also bake them for deeper flavor (see tips below).

Make the Sweet Potato Mixture

In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed sweet potatoes with melted butter, brown sugar, eggs, milk, vanilla, cinnamon (if using), and salt. Whisk or beat until smooth and creamy this helps create that silky, soufflé-like texture.

Pour Into the Baking Dish

Grease a 9×13-inch or similar-sized baking dish. Pour the sweet potato mixture in and smooth out the top with a spatula. Set aside while you make the topping.

Prepare the Pecan Streusel Topping

In a small bowl, mix together chopped pecans, flour, brown sugar, and softened butter. Using your hands or a fork, mix until crumbly. Sprinkle evenly over the sweet potato base.

Bake Until Golden

Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30–35 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the filling is set. Let rest for 10 minutes before serving for best texture.

What to Serve With Old-Fashioned Sweet Potato Casserole

Sweet, buttery, and indulgent, this casserole pairs perfectly with savory mains and light sides. Whether you’re serving a holiday meal or cozy dinner, these dishes balance out the sweetness while keeping the comfort vibe strong:

Beef Back Ribs – These tender, smoky ribs bring rich, meaty contrast to the creamy sweet potatoes, making it a perfect Southern-style pairing.

Chicken Poblano Soup – Light, flavorful, and slightly spicy, this soup is the ideal starter for a hearty holiday meal or fall dinner.

Amish Country Casserole – A creamy, noodle-based dish that pairs beautifully with the sweet potato casserole’s smooth texture and sweet-savory profile.

Mini Chicken Pot Pies – These flaky, savory bites round out the meal with buttery pastry and comforting chicken filling—great for smaller gatherings or potlucks.

Brie Cheese Bites – Elegant yet simple, these cheesy appetizers add a touch of richness and pair wonderfully with the warm, nutty notes of the sweet potato casserole.

Pro Tips for Perfecting Old-Fashioned Sweet Potato Casserole

1. Boiling vs. Baking – Baking sweet potatoes brings out more natural sweetness and keeps them drier for a fluffier texture. Boiling is faster but can water them down just drain well.
2. Use Room Temp Ingredients – Let your eggs and milk come to room temperature before mixing. This helps the ingredients blend better and bake evenly.
3. Mash, Don’t Purée – For the best texture, mash your sweet potatoes by hand. Using a food processor can make the filling too gummy.
4. Customize the Topping – Not a pecan fan? Swap in walnuts or use a marshmallow topping for a more traditional twist.
5. Make It Ahead – Prepare the base and topping separately the night before. Refrigerate, then assemble and bake the next day.
6. Go Dairy-Free – Use almond milk and plant-based butter to make this casserole completely dairy-free without sacrificing flavor.
7. Don’t Skip the Salt – A small amount of salt is essential it keeps the casserole from tasting flat and enhances the sweetness naturally.

Storing and Reheating Tips

Refrigerating Leftovers:
Let the casserole cool completely, then cover tightly or transfer to an airtight container. You may store it in the refrigerator for up to four days.

Freezing:
Yes, you can freeze it! Assemble the casserole but don’t bake it. It can be frozen for up to two months after being carefully wrapped in foil. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then bake according to the recipe.

Reheating:

• Oven: Cover with foil and reheat at 350°F for 15–20 minutes until warmed through. Remove foil during the last 5 minutes to crisp up the topping.
• Microwave: Heat individual portions in 30-second intervals until hot, though the topping may soften slightly.
• Air Fryer (for topping only): Pop just the topping back in at 350°F for 3–4 minutes if you want it extra crispy.

FAQs About Old-Fashioned Sweet Potato Casserole

What’s the Difference Between Sweet Potato Pie and Casserole?

Sweet potato pie is a dessert with a pastry crust and custard-like filling, while sweet potato casserole is a side dish topped with nuts or marshmallows. The casserole is often sweeter but eaten alongside savory dishes.

Is It Better to Boil or Bake Sweet Potatoes for a Casserole?

Baking enhances sweetness and creates a drier texture, which is ideal for a fluffier casserole. Boiling is quicker but can make the potatoes more watery just be sure to drain them well.

Why Are Eggs Used in Sweet Potato Casserole?

Eggs act as a binder and give the casserole a light, souffle-like texture. They help it set while baking and create a smooth, rich filling.

Are Candied Yams and Sweet Potato Casserole the Same Thing?

Not quite. Candied yams are cooked in syrup or sugar and served as a side or dessert, often with marshmallows. Sweet potato casserole has a mashed base with a baked topping and more balanced flavors.

What Is on a Cracker Barrel Loaded Sweet Potato?

Cracker Barrel’s loaded sweet potato typically features brown sugar, cinnamon butter, and toasted marshmallows. It’s more of a dessert-style side compared to a traditional casserole.

Are Canned Sweet Potatoes and Yams the Same Thing?

Not exactly. Most “yams” sold in U.S. stores are actually orange-fleshed sweet potatoes. True yams are starchy and white. Canned versions can be used in casseroles, but fresh sweet potatoes offer better texture and flavor.

This Old-Fashioned Sweet Potato Casserole isn’t just a side dish it’s the heart of any comfort-food feast. Simple, nostalgic, and impossible to resist, it’s sure to become a regular on your holiday table and beyond.

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