This Southern Sweet Potato Casserole is a cherished dish in many households, especially during the holidays. With its creamy texture, sweet flavor, and crunchy pecan topping, it’s no wonder why this recipe has become a staple at family gatherings and festive celebrations. I remember the first time I tasted this delicious dish—it was at my grandmother’s Thanksgiving table—and it instantly became a coveted recipe in my own kitchen. Let’s explore why this dish deserves a spot on your table.
Why you’ll love this dish
There are countless reasons to whip up this Southern Sweet Potato Casserole. Not only is it a delightful blend of flavors and textures, but it also brings a warm, homey feeling to any meal. This dish is budget-friendly and can be made in under an hour, making it perfect for weeknight dinners, brunches, or even potlucks. The fact that it pleases both kids and adults alike makes it all the more appealing!
“This casserole has become the star of our Thanksgiving table! I never leave a gathering without getting requests for the recipe.” — A satisfied home cook
How this recipe comes together
Making this Southern Sweet Potato Casserole is simpler than you might think! It starts with mashing the sweet potatoes and combining them with a few essential ingredients to create a creamy base. Next comes an optional layer of sweetened cream cheese that adds an irresistible richness. Finally, a crunchy pecan streusel topping brings everything together, adding a perfect balance of flavor and texture.
Let’s break it down step by step!
What you’ll need
To recreate this delight in your kitchen, gather the following ingredients:
- 4 cups mashed sweet potatoes (about 4–5 medium potatoes)
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1/2 cup melted butter
- 1/3 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened (optional)
- 1/4 cup sugar (for creamy layer)
- 1 cup chopped pecans
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
- 1/4 cup melted butter (for streusel)
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
Feel free to substitute with dairy-free options or modify sugars depending on your dietary preferences!
