Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecan Streusel

Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecan Streusel is the ultimate comfort food that elevates your holiday table or cozy family dinner. This dish brings together the natural sweetness of tender sweet potatoes with a crunchy, buttery pecan streusel topping that adds texture and a hint of warmth from cinnamon and nutmeg. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a kitchen newbie, this recipe is approachable, delicious, and guaranteed to become a staple in your recipe rotation. The optional touch of turkey bacon adds a subtle savory twist, balancing the sweetness perfectly. Let’s dive into what makes this casserole so special and how to create it from scratch.

What Makes This Recipe Special

This Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecan Streusel stands out for several reasons. First, the sweet potatoes are boiled until perfectly tender and then mashed with a blend of sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, vanilla, and milk, giving a creamy, flavorful base. The pecan streusel topping offers a delightful crunch, thanks to a mix of chopped pecans, brown sugar, and flour bound together with melted butter. Including turkey bacon is an optional addition that adds a smoky depth without overpowering the sweet notes. The balance of creamy, crunchy, sweet, and a hint of savory makes this dish irresistible. Plus, it’s easy to prepare ahead of time and bake when you’re ready, making it perfect for busy days or special occasions.

What You’ll Gather

• 4 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1/4 cup milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
• 1/2 cup chopped pecans
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup turkey bacon, cooked and crumbled (optional)
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted (for streusel)

Essential Tools for Success

• Large pot – for boiling sweet potatoes until tender
• Mixing bowls – one for the sweet potato filling, one for the streusel topping
• Potato masher or electric mixer – to mash the sweet potatoes smooth
• Baking dish (around 8×8 inches) – to bake the casserole evenly
• Measuring cups and spoons – for precise ingredient amounts
• Spatula and wooden spoon – for mixing and folding ingredients

Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecan Streusel: How It’s Done

Step 1: Prepare the Sweet Potatoes

Start by peeling and cubing the sweet potatoes into evenly sized pieces to ensure uniform cooking. Place them in a large pot and cover with cold water. Bring to a boil and cook for about 15-20 minutes or until the sweet potatoes are fork-tender. Drain well and transfer to a large mixing bowl.

Step 2: Mash and Flavor

Add the softened butter, granulated sugar, milk, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and nutmeg to the sweet potatoes. Mash everything together until smooth and creamy. You can use a potato masher or an electric mixer for a silkier texture. Taste and adjust sweetness or spices if desired.

Step 3: Prepare the Pecan Streusel

In a separate bowl, combine the chopped pecans, brown sugar, and all-purpose flour. Pour in the melted butter and stir until the mixture is crumbly and holds together when pressed. If using, fold in the crumbled turkey bacon now for a savory contrast.

Step 4: Assemble the Casserole

Spoon the mashed sweet potato mixture into your baking dish, smoothing the top with a spatula. Sprinkle the pecan streusel evenly over the surface, making sure to cover every inch for maximum crunch.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the assembled casserole in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes or until the streusel topping is golden brown and crisp. The sweet potato filling should be hot and slightly bubbling around the edges.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Let the casserole cool for 5-10 minutes before serving. This will help the topping set slightly and make it easier to scoop out portions. Enjoy your Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecan Streusel as a side dish or a comforting dessert.

What to Use Instead

• Sweet potatoes: Use yams or butternut squash for a different but delicious flavor.
• Milk: Substitute with almond milk, oat milk, or any dairy-free alternative.
• Butter: Use coconut oil or a plant-based butter substitute for a dairy-free version.
• Turkey bacon: Omit or replace with smoked tempeh or vegan bacon for a plant-based option.
• All-purpose flour: Substitute with gluten-free flour blends if needed.

Behind-the-Scenes Notes

• Choosing the right sweet potatoes is key. Look for firm, bright orange sweet potatoes without blemishes.
• Boiling sweet potatoes ensures they become soft and mash easily, but you can also roast them for a deeper flavor.
• The pecan streusel adds a wonderful contrast in texture and flavor; don’t skip this step!
• For a sweeter topping, increase the brown sugar slightly or add a pinch of sea salt for balance.
• Adding turkey bacon is optional but highly recommended if you like a bit of smoky savoriness paired with sweetness.

Best Ways to Store

Allow the Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecan Streusel to cool completely before storing. Transfer leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days. To reheat, place individual portions in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or warm the entire casserole in a 325°F oven until heated through and the topping re-crisps. This casserole also freezes well—wrap tightly in foil and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Your Top Questions

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole, cover it tightly with foil, and refrigerate it overnight. When you’re ready, bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking cold from the fridge.

How can I make this recipe nut-free?

Simply omit the pecans from the streusel topping and replace them with additional flour or seeds like pumpkin or sunflower seeds for crunch. The casserole will still be delicious but without the nut allergy concern.

Is it possible to make this recipe vegan?

Yes! Substitute the butter with vegan butter or coconut oil, use a plant-based milk, and skip the turkey bacon or replace it with vegan bacon alternatives. This way, the casserole remains creamy and flavorful without animal products.

What sides pair well with this casserole?

This Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecan Streusel pairs beautifully with roasted vegetables, grilled chicken, or a fresh green salad. For dessert inspiration, consider trying Pumpkin Muffins or indulge in rich Salted Caramel Pecan Brownies to keep the nutty theme going.

What to Make After This

• Pumpkin Muffins – A spiced, moist muffin that complements fall flavors perfectly.
• Salted Caramel Pecan Brownies – Rich and fudgy brownies topped with salted caramel and crunchy pecans.
• Classic roasted turkey or chicken – to serve alongside your casserole for a hearty meal.
• Simple green beans almondine – a fresh, crunchy vegetable side to balance the richness.

The Last Word

This Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecan Streusel is a timeless dish that blends creamy, sweet, and crunchy elements in every bite. Its ease of preparation and make-ahead capability make it an ideal recipe for any occasion, from festive holidays to weeknight dinners. The addition of pecans and optional turkey bacon introduces layers of flavor that will impress guests and family alike. Whether you’re a longtime fan of sweet potato dishes or trying this one for the first time, this casserole is guaranteed to win you over with its warm, comforting charm.

Try it soon and watch it become one of your favorite go-to recipes!

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