Southern Sweet Potato Casserole

Servings:

12–14 generous portions (because you will want leftovers!)

Ingredients**

For the Sweet Potato Base:

• 5 large sweet potatoes (about 4 to 5 pounds)
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• ½ cup packed brown sugar
• ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
• ½ cup whole milk (or evaporated milk for extra richness)
• 2 large eggs, beaten
• 1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional, but gives amazing depth)

For the Pecan Topping:

• 1 cup chopped pecans
• 1 cup packed brown sugar
• ⅓ cup all-purpose flour
• ½ cup (1 stick) butter, melted
• Pinch of salt
• Optional: a handful of mini marshmallows for extra gooeyness

Instructions**

Step 1: Cook the Sweet Potatoes

1. Wash, peel, and cut sweet potatoes into chunks.
2. Place in a large pot, cover with water, and boil for about 20–25 minutes until fork-tender.
3. Drain well, then return them to the pot to let steam evaporate for a minute or two (this keeps them from getting watery).

Step 2: Mash and Mix

1. Using a hand mixer or potato masher, mash the sweet potatoes until smooth.
2. Add in granulated sugar, brown sugar, melted butter, milk, eggs, vanilla, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
3. Mix until creamy and fully combined — it should be thick but silky.

Step 3: Assemble the Casserole

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or nonstick spray.
3. Pour the sweet potato mixture into the dish and spread evenly.

Step 4: Make the Pecan Topping

1. In a medium bowl, combine brown sugar, flour, melted butter, and pecans.
2. Stir until everything is coated and crumbly.
3. Sprinkle evenly over the sweet potato layer.
4. (Optional) Add mini marshmallows on top for that classic Southern flair.

Step 5: Bake

• Bake uncovered at 350°F (175°C) for 35–40 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and slightly crisp.
• If using marshmallows, bake for 30 minutes, then sprinkle them on top and bake for another 10 minutes until toasty.

Tips for the Best Flavor

• Roast instead of boil: For a deeper caramel flavor, roast the sweet potatoes at 400°F for about 45–50 minutes before mashing.
• Add a splash of bourbon or maple syrup for a Southern twist.
• Use heavy cream instead of milk if you want extra richness.
• Make ahead: Assemble the casserole (without baking) a day before and refrigerate. Bake it fresh before serving.

Serving Suggestions

Serve warm as a side dish with:

• Roasted turkey or glazed ham
• Collard greens or green bean casserole
• Cornbread or dinner rolls

It’s also amazing the next morning — warm up a scoop and top it with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for a sweet breakfast treat!

Benefits

• Rich in vitamins A and C for healthy skin and immunity.
• High in fiber for better digestion.
• Nourishing comfort food that satisfies both sweet and savory cravings.
• A dish that brings family and nostalgia together on every occasion.