Thanksgiving is all about tradition—but that doesn’t mean your menu can’t evolve. Elevate your holiday spread this year with a Sweet Potato Casserole featuring a Buttery Pecan Crumble Topping. This dish adds a delicious twist to a classic favorite, promising to become the centerpiece of your celebration.
Many Thanksgiving tables rely on the tried-and-true marshmallow-topped casserole. While that version is comforting, this recipe introduces a crunchy, buttery pecan crumble that perfectly complements the natural sweetness of the potatoes. The result? A warm, indulgent side dish that blends nostalgia with modern flair.
Make sure to gather these essentials before you begin:
4 pounds of sweet potatoes
2 large eggs
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted (divided)
1/2 cup milk
1/2 cup light brown sugar
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
For the pecan crumble topping:
1/3 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup light brown sugar
1 pinch of salt
1 cup Pecan Halves
Here’s how you can bring this holiday favorite to life, step by step.
1. Prepare the Sweet Potatoes
Peel and boil the sweet potatoes until they are fork-tender.
Drain the potatoes, then mash them with butter, eggs, milk, sugars, vanilla, and spices until the mixture is smooth.
Transfer the mashed potatoes into a greased 9x13-inch baking dish.
2. Make the Pecan Crumble Topping
In a small saucepan, melt the remaining butter.
In a bowl, combine flour, brown sugar, and a pinch of salt, then stir in the pecans until coated with the buttery mixture.
3. Assemble and Bake
Spread the pecan topping evenly over the sweet potato mixture.
Bake at 350°F for 30 to 50 minutes, until the topping is golden and the casserole is set.
Make-Ahead Tips and FAQs
Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Absolutely! Assemble the casserole the night before, cover it with foil, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, add 10–15 minutes to the cooking time if it’s cold from the fridge.
What if I prefer marshmallows?
No problem! You can swap out the pecan crumble for marshmallows—or mix both for the ultimate combo of crunch and gooey goodness.
How long will this casserole last?
Stored in an airtight container, the baked casserole will last up to a week in the fridge. If you want to freeze it, bake only the sweet potato layer, let it cool, and store it in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw it before adding the topping and reheating.
This Sweet Potato Casserole with Buttery Pecan Crumble offers the perfect blend of creamy sweetness and crunchy texture. It’s not just another side dish—it’s a conversation starter that will have your guests raving long after Thanksgiving.
For a detailed recipe and more culinary inspiration, check out Averie Sunshine’s original post here at https://www.averiecooks.com/sweet-potato-casserole-butter-pecan-crumble-topping/
This Thanksgiving, take your sweet potato game to the next level. Whether you’re cooking for a large gathering or a more intimate dinner, this dish guarantees to impress—and may just become a new holiday tradition.