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Southern Sweet Potato Casserole is a beloved classic in Southern cuisine, often enjoyed during holiday gatherings such as Thanksgiving and Christmas.

This dish is a delightful combination of creamy, mashed sweet potatoes mixed with butter, sugar, eggs, and warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg. The result is a rich, smooth, and slightly spiced sweet potato base that serves as the foundation for the dish.

What makes this casserole truly special is its topping. Traditional Southern Sweet Potato Casserole features a crunchy, sweet pecan topping made with brown sugar, butter, and chopped pecans.

This combination adds a delicious contrast of textures, with the soft, velvety sweet potatoes complementing the crispy, caramelized topping.

Some variations include a marshmallow topping, creating an extra layer of sweetness and gooeyness that makes the dish even more indulgent.

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Southern Sweet Potato Casserole

The process of making Southern Sweet Potato Casserole begins with selecting fresh, ripe sweet potatoes, which are then peeled, boiled, and mashed to a smooth consistency.

The mashed sweet potatoes are mixed with key ingredients such as melted butter, brown sugar, vanilla extract, and a hint of cinnamon. Eggs are added to give the casserole a light and fluffy texture while also binding the mixture together.

Once the sweet potato base is prepared, it is spread into a baking dish and topped with the pecan crumble or marshmallows. The casserole is then baked until golden brown, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully.

The result is a dish that is both comforting and nostalgic, evoking warm memories of family gatherings and home-cooked meals.

Southern Sweet Potato Casserole is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. Sweet potatoes are rich in vitamins A and C, fiber, and antioxidants, making them a healthier alternative to traditional dessert-style casseroles.

While the dish is sweet enough to be considered a dessert, it is commonly served as a side dish alongside roasted turkey, ham, or other savory holiday favorites.

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Prep Time 20

Cook Time 30

Course Appetizer

Cuisine American

Servings 4

Calories 300 kcal

Ingredients

4 cups mashed sweet potatoes
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup brown sugar packed
1/2 cup melted butter
1/2 cup milk
2 eggs beaten
1 teaspoon chicken broth
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/4 teaspoon salt

For the topping:

1 cup mini marshmallows
1/2 cup chopped pecans
1 tablespoon melted butter

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Prepare the sweet potatoes: Peel and cook the sweet potatoes (either boil them until tender or roast them in the oven). Once soft, mash them until smooth.
Make the casserole mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed sweet potatoes with the granulated sugar, brown sugar, melted butter, milk, eggs, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Mix everything together until smooth and well-combined.
Transfer to baking dish: Pour the sweet potato mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly.
Prepare the topping: In a small bowl, mix together the mini marshmallows, chopped pecans, and melted butter (if using).
Bake the casserole: Bake the casserole in the preheated oven for about 30 minutes.
Add the topping: After 30 minutes, remove the casserole from the oven and sprinkle the marshmallow-pecan topping evenly over the casserole. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the marshmallows are golden brown and the topping is bubbly.
Serve and enjoy: Allow the casserole to cool slightly before serving. It’s the perfect side dish for holiday meals!

Why You Will Love Southern Sweet Potato Casserole

Southern Sweet Potato Casserole is more than just a side dish—it’s a heartwarming, nostalgic, and irresistibly delicious part of any meal. Whether you’re making it for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or simply as a comforting dish for a family gathering, this casserole brings joy with every bite. The combination of creamy sweet potatoes, rich butter, warm spices, and a crunchy topping creates a texture and flavor explosion that is hard to resist.

A Perfect Balance of Sweet and Savory

One of the reasons you’ll love this dish is its perfect balance of flavors. Sweet potatoes have a natural sweetness that deepens when baked, making them the ideal base for this casserole. The addition of brown sugar, cinnamon, and vanilla enhances this sweetness, while a touch of salt brings out the rich, earthy flavors. The result is a dish that is neither overly sweet nor too savory but a harmonious blend of both.

Velvety, Creamy Texture

The texture of a well-made Southern Sweet Potato Casserole is something to marvel at. When properly mashed, the sweet potatoes turn into a smooth, creamy base that melts in your mouth. Butter and cream (or milk) add richness and silkiness, making each bite indulgent yet comforting. Unlike traditional mashed potatoes, which can sometimes be heavy, this casserole remains light and fluffy, thanks to the natural airiness of sweet potatoes.

The Crunchy Topping: A Game-Changer

What truly sets this casserole apart is its signature topping. There are typically two popular versions: a pecan-streusel topping and a marshmallow topping.

Pecan Streusel Topping: Made with brown sugar, butter, and crunchy pecans, this topping adds a delightful contrast to the creamy sweet potatoes. The pecans provide a nutty depth, while the caramelized sugar creates a crispy, buttery crust that makes every bite irresistible.
Marshmallow Topping: For those who love an extra dose of sweetness, the gooey, toasted marshmallow topping is a classic choice. As the marshmallows melt and brown in the oven, they create a sticky, caramelized layer that perfectly complements the rich, spiced sweet potatoes.

A Dish That Feels Like a Warm Hug

Southern Sweet Potato Casserole is more than just food—it’s an experience. It’s the dish that reminds you of holiday dinners, family gatherings, and the warmth of home. Every spoonful brings comfort, nostalgia, and a deep sense of satisfaction.

Versatile and Customizable

Another reason to love this dish is its versatility. You can adjust the sweetness, switch up the toppings, or even add ingredients like coconut, maple syrup, or bourbon for an extra layer of flavor. Whether you prefer it extra sweet or with a hint of spice, this casserole can be tailored to suit any taste.

Southern Sweet Potato Casserole: Tips and Serving Tricks

Southern Sweet Potato Casserole is a holiday staple, blending rich, creamy sweet potatoes with warm spices and a crunchy topping. Whether you’re making it for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or a Sunday dinner, these tips and tricks will ensure your dish is the star of the table.

Tips for the Best Sweet Potato Casserole

Choose the Right Sweet Potatoes
Opt for fresh, deep orange sweet potatoes like Beauregard or Garnet. They have a naturally sweet, creamy texture that enhances the casserole’s flavor.
Roast Instead of Boil
Roasting sweet potatoes in the oven instead of boiling them concentrates their flavor and prevents them from becoming waterlogged. Simply bake them at 400°F for about 45 minutes until fork-tender, then scoop out the flesh.
Mash or Whip?
- For a rustic texture, mash the sweet potatoes with a potato masher.
- For a silky-smooth texture, use an electric mixer or food processor. Adding a splash of heavy cream or milk helps create a fluffy consistency.
Balance Sweetness
While sweet potatoes are naturally sweet, adding brown sugar, maple syrup, or honey enhances their depth. Be mindful not to over-sweeten—taste as you mix to adjust the balance.
Add Warm Spices
Classic Southern flavors include cinnamon, nutmeg, and a pinch of cloves or allspice. A teaspoon of vanilla extract also enhances the dish’s warmth.
The Perfect Topping
- Classic Pecan Streusel: A crunchy topping made with chopped pecans, butter, brown sugar, and flour adds a caramelized contrast.
- Marshmallow Lovers: For a traditional touch, top with mini marshmallows and broil for 1-2 minutes until golden brown.
- Combo Topping: For the best of both worlds, layer half with pecans and half with marshmallows to please different tastes.
Make It Ahead
Prepare the sweet potato mixture up to two days in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Add the topping just before baking to maintain its crispness.
Baking Tips
Bake at 350°F for 25-30 minutes until heated through and bubbling. If using marshmallows, add them in the last 5 minutes to avoid burning.

Serving Tricks

Portioning for a Crowd
A 9×13-inch casserole serves about 10-12 people. For larger gatherings, consider making two separate dishes—one with pecans and one with marshmallows—to satisfy different preferences.
Individual Servings
For a more elegant presentation, serve in ramekins or mini cast-iron skillets. This also helps control portions and makes serving easier.
Garnishing for Visual Appeal
Sprinkle extra toasted pecans on top before serving or drizzle with a little maple syrup for a glossy finish. A light dusting of cinnamon can also enhance the look and flavor.
Pairing Suggestions
This casserole pairs beautifully with roasted turkey, ham, or fried chicken. Balance the sweetness with savory sides like collard greens, cornbread dressing, or mac and cheese.

By following these tips and tricks, your Southern Sweet Potato Casserole will be the perfect blend of creamy, crunchy, and deliciously sweet—sure to be a crowd favorite!

Conclusion

Southern Sweet Potato Casserole is a must-have dish that captures the essence of Southern hospitality. It’s creamy, crunchy, sweet, and savory all in one, making it the perfect complement to any meal. Once you taste it, you’ll understand why it has remained a beloved tradition for generations.