Every Thanksgiving table needs that one dish everyone looks forward to — creamy, golden, and comforting. That dish is sweet potato casserole. Whether you call it a side or a dessert (we say both!), it’s a nostalgic favorite that never fails to bring smiles.
This easy sweet potato casserole recipe combines soft, buttery mashed sweet potatoes with brown sugar, vanilla, and a hint of cinnamon — then tops it all with a heavenly layer of crunchy pecans and toasted marshmallows. It’s rich, sweet, and satisfying, yet simple enough to make in under an hour.
If you’re hosting Thanksgiving dinner and want a no-stress, crowd-pleasing dish that feels homemade and special, this recipe will be your go-to for years to come.
Why This Easy Sweet Potato Casserole Works
-
Quick Prep: No complicated steps or special tools — just mix, top, and bake.
-
Minimal Ingredients: Pantry staples you likely already have.
-
Perfect Texture: Fluffy sweet potatoes meet crunchy pecan topping.
-
Versatile: Works beautifully with or without marshmallows.
-
Holiday Classic: Brings cozy flavor and nostalgia to every table.
This casserole isn’t just delicious — it’s the definition of holiday comfort.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make this easy sweet potato casserole, you’ll need just a handful of ingredients that deliver big on flavor.
For the Sweet Potato Base:
-
4 large sweet potatoes (about 3 pounds) – Peeled, cubed, and cooked until soft.
-
½ cup unsalted butter (1 stick) – Adds richness and smooth texture.
-
½ cup brown sugar (light or dark) – Brings deep caramel sweetness.
-
¼ cup milk (or almond milk for dairy-free) – Creates a creamy consistency.
-
2 large eggs – Help bind and add structure.
-
1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Adds warmth and depth.
-
1 teaspoon cinnamon – A must for fall flavor.
-
¼ teaspoon nutmeg – Optional but adds lovely spice.
-
Pinch of salt – Balances all the sweetness.
For the Topping:
You can choose one (or both!) depending on your style.
Pecan Streusel Topping:
-
½ cup brown sugar
-
⅓ cup all-purpose flour
-
4 tablespoons melted butter
-
1 cup chopped pecans
Marshmallow Topping (optional):
-
2 cups mini marshmallows – Toasty, gooey, golden perfection.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Let’s make your Thanksgiving prep as smooth as this casserole!
Step 1: Prepare and Cook the Sweet Potatoes
-
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
-
Peel and cube the sweet potatoes into medium-sized chunks.
-
Place them in a large pot, cover with water, and bring to a boil.
-
Cook for 15–20 minutes, or until tender when pierced with a fork.
-
Drain well and let them cool for 5 minutes.
Pro Tip: To save time, you can microwave whole sweet potatoes for 8–10 minutes, turning halfway through, until soft.
Step 2: Mash the Sweet Potatoes
Transfer the cooked sweet potatoes to a large bowl. Using a potato masher or hand mixer, mash until smooth.
Add melted butter, brown sugar, milk, eggs, vanilla, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Mix until everything is well combined and creamy.
Tip: For a fluffier texture, don’t overmix — stop once the mixture looks smooth and light.
Step 3: Make the Pecan Topping
In a medium bowl, mix brown sugar, flour, and melted butter until crumbly. Stir in chopped pecans until evenly coated.
This streusel-style topping gives your casserole the perfect sweet crunch.
Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
-
Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
-
Spread the mashed sweet potato mixture evenly in the dish.
-
Sprinkle the pecan topping evenly over the top.
If you want the marshmallow version, you can either:
-
Bake with just the pecan topping and add marshmallows later, or
-
Use half pecan topping and half marshmallows for the best of both worlds!
Step 5: Bake to Golden Perfection
Bake uncovered at 350°F for 25–30 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and crisp.
If adding marshmallows, sprinkle them on top during the last 10 minutes of baking and return to the oven until toasted and slightly melted.
Optional Finishing Touch: For extra toastiness, broil for 30–60 seconds — just watch closely to prevent burning.
How to Make It Even Easier
-
Use Canned Sweet Potatoes: Drain and mash before mixing with the other ingredients.
-
Make Ahead: Assemble the casserole (without baking) up to 24 hours ahead and refrigerate. Bake when ready to serve.
-
Freeze It: Cool completely after baking, cover tightly, and freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat at 350°F until warm.
Texture Tips & Tricks
-
Creamier Potatoes: Add a splash of cream or extra butter if you love a rich texture.
-
Thicker Base: Add an extra egg or reduce milk slightly.
-
Crispier Topping: Bake uncovered for the last 5 minutes to crisp up the pecans.
Why Sweet Potato Casserole is a Thanksgiving Classic
Sweet potato casserole has been a staple for generations because it perfectly captures the essence of fall — cozy, sweet, and spiced. Its comforting flavor complements savory dishes like turkey and stuffing, balancing the meal beautifully.
And let’s be honest: it’s the side dish that doubles as dessert. The sweet aroma of cinnamon, brown sugar, and roasted pecans evokes that feeling of gratitude and warmth that defines the holiday season.
Add a Creative Twist
Want to make this classic your own? Try one of these fun variations:
1. Maple-Pecan Version: Add 2 tablespoons of maple syrup to the sweet potato mixture and sprinkle chopped pecans on top before baking.
2. Coconut Crunch: Replace pecans with shredded coconut for a tropical flair.
3. Apple Spice: Add ½ cup diced apples and a dash of apple pie spice for an autumn-inspired flavor.
4. Oatmeal Streusel: Add ½ cup oats to the topping for an extra rustic texture.
5. Marshmallow Swirl: Mix mini marshmallows into the batter for gooey pockets throughout the casserole.
What to Serve with Sweet Potato Casserole
This dish pairs perfectly with all your Thanksgiving favorites:
-
Roast Turkey or Chicken – The natural sweetness complements savory poultry.
-
Cranberry Sauce – The tartness cuts through the richness.
-
Green Bean Casserole – Adds balance and texture.
-
Stuffing or Dressing – Traditional and hearty.
-
Dinner Rolls or Cornbread – Perfect for soaking up every bite.
Make-Ahead Instructions for a Stress-Free Holiday
To Make Ahead:
-
Prepare the sweet potato mixture and topping separately.
-
Assemble in the baking dish, cover tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours.
-
When ready to bake, let it come to room temperature for 30 minutes, then bake as directed.
To Freeze:
-
Bake the casserole completely and allow it to cool.
-
Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil.
-
Freeze for up to 2 months.
-
Reheat at 350°F for 25–30 minutes or until warmed through.
To Reheat Individual Servings:
-
Microwave on medium power for 1–2 minutes until hot.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I make this without eggs?
Yes. Substitute each egg with 1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal mixed with 3 tablespoons of water, or use ¼ cup unsweetened applesauce per egg.
Can I make it dairy-free?
Absolutely. Use plant-based butter and non-dairy milk like almond, oat, or coconut milk.
Do I need both marshmallows and pecans?
Not necessarily! Both are traditional, but you can use just one depending on your preference. Pecan streusel is buttery and nutty, while marshmallows make it extra sweet and fluffy.
Can I prepare this ahead for Thanksgiving Day?
Yes! It’s the perfect make-ahead dish. Prepare and refrigerate the night before, then bake fresh before serving.
Can I use yams instead of sweet potatoes?
Yes, though flavor and texture may vary slightly. True sweet potatoes are smoother and sweeter than yams.
What if my topping gets too dark while baking?
Cover loosely with foil to prevent burning while allowing the casserole to continue heating.
Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes — use almond flour or a gluten-free blend in place of all-purpose flour for the streusel topping.
Tips for the Perfect Thanksgiving Casserole
-
Use Fresh Sweet Potatoes: They deliver richer flavor and better texture.
-
Mash While Warm: Easier blending and smoother consistency.
-
Don’t Skimp on Butter: It’s key for that luxurious taste.
-
Toast Pecans Lightly Beforehand: Enhances their nutty aroma.
-
Let It Rest Before Serving: 10 minutes of resting helps it set perfectly.
The Comfort and Joy of a Classic Dish
This easy sweet potato casserole brings everyone together. Its golden color, buttery aroma, and warm sweetness make it feel like a hug in every bite. It’s proof that simple ingredients can create something extraordinary — something that makes guests go back for seconds (and thirds).
When the Thanksgiving feast winds down and the last piece of pie is served, this casserole will linger in everyone’s memory. It’s a dish that celebrates comfort, tradition, and love — the very essence of the holidays.
So, whether it’s your first time hosting or your tenth, this recipe ensures your Thanksgiving table will be filled with smiles, warmth, and gratitude.
Leftover Sweet Potato Casserole Ideas
If you have leftovers (lucky you!), try these creative ideas:
-
Sweet Potato Pancakes: Mix leftovers with flour and eggs, then pan-fry into fluffy breakfast pancakes.
-
Breakfast Bowl: Reheat and top with granola, nuts, and a drizzle of maple syrup.
-
Dessert Parfait: Layer leftovers with whipped cream or yogurt for a post-dinner treat.
-
Sweet Toast Spread: Spread a warm scoop over toast or English muffins with cinnamon.
Final Thoughts
Thanksgiving is about celebrating togetherness, warmth, and comfort food that feels like home. This easy sweet potato casserole captures all of that in one dish — creamy, sweet, nutty, and irresistibly nostalgic.
In under an hour, you’ll have a dish that not only completes your Thanksgiving feast but also fills your kitchen with the scents of fall — cinnamon, butter, and roasted pecans. Whether you top it with marshmallows, pecans, or both, this casserole promises to be the easiest and most beloved dish on your table.
So grab your mixing bowl, preheat that oven, and bring a little extra sweetness to your Thanksgiving celebration.
