Sweet potato casserole with caramelised pecans

This sweet potato casserole features creamy mashed sweet potatoes topped with crunchy caramelized pecans, creating a perfect blend of sweetness and texture. Ideal for holiday meals or any comforting feast, this dish is both easy to make and delicious.

02 Feb 2026
Cook time 10 min
Prep time 10 min

Ingredients:

2 tbsp brown sugar
1/2 cup pecans
4 sweet potatos
2 tbsp butter
1 tsp cinnamon
1 dash salt
Sweet potato casserole with caramelised pecans

Sweet potato casserole with caramelised pecans is a classic, comforting dish perfect for holiday gatherings or as a heartwarming side dish for any meal. The natural sweetness of the sweet potatoes paired with the crunchy, caramelized pecans creates a delightful combination of textures and flavors that will leave everyone coming back for more.

Instructions:

1. Preheat Your Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Prepare the Sweet Potatoes:
- Peel the sweet potatoes if desired (you can also leave the skins on for added nutrients and texture).
- Cut the sweet potatoes into roughly 1-inch chunks for faster and more even cooking.
3. Cook the Sweet Potatoes:
- Place the sweet potato chunks in a large pot and cover with water.
- Add a dash of salt to the water.
- Bring to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce to a simmer and cook until the sweet potatoes are tender (about 15-20 minutes).
- Drain the sweet potatoes and let them steam dry for a few minutes.
4. Mash the Sweet Potatoes:
- Transfer the cooked sweet potatoes to a large mixing bowl.
- Mash them until smooth using a potato masher or fork.
- Add the melted butter and cinnamon to the mashed sweet potatoes. Mix well until everything is incorporated.
- Taste and add a dash of salt if needed.
5. Assemble the Casserole:
- Transfer the mashed sweet potato mixture into a greased baking dish, spreading it out into an even layer.
6. Prepare the Caramelized Pecans:
- In a small skillet over medium heat, toast the pecans for about 3-5 minutes, stirring frequently to avoid burning.
- Add the brown sugar and a splash of water to the skillet. Stir constantly until the sugar has melted and coated the pecans, about another 3-5 minutes. Be careful not to burn the sugar.
- Once the pecans are caramelized and the sugar is melted, remove from heat.
7. Top and Bake the Casserole:
- Sprinkle the caramelized pecans evenly over the top of the sweet potato mixture in the baking dish.
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is slightly golden and the casserole is heated through.
8. Serve:
- Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving.
- Serve warm and enjoy!

This sweet potato casserole with caramelized pecans is sure to be a hit at your next meal. The balance of sweet, savory, and crunchy makes it a versatile dish suitable for any occasion. Enjoy the warmth and comfort it brings, and don’t be surprised if it becomes a requested favorite!

Sweet potato casserole with caramelised pecans FAQ:

What is the baking time for sweet potato casserole?

Bake the sweet potato casserole in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is slightly golden and the casserole is heated through.

How can I tell if the sweet potatoes are done cooking?

Sweet potatoes are done when they are tender. You can check this by piercing them with a fork; if it goes in easily, they are ready. This typically takes about 15-20 minutes of simmering.

Can I make substitutions for the pecans?

Yes, if you have nut allergies or prefer a different flavor, you can substitute the pecans with sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds, which add a similar crunch.

How should I store leftovers of the sweet potato casserole?

Store leftover sweet potato casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. You can reheat it in the oven or microwave before serving.

What size baking dish should I use for this casserole?

For this recipe, a standard 9x9-inch baking dish works well to accommodate the sweet potato mixture and the caramelized pecans.

Tips:

- Ensure the sweet potatoes are cooked until they are tender to get the best creamy texture in your casserole.

- You can toast the pecans lightly before caramelizing them for an extra depth of flavor.

- For a smoother casserole texture, mash the sweet potatoes thoroughly or even use a mixer.

- If you prefer a less sweet dish, reduce the quantity of brown sugar used in the caramelized pecans topping.

- Add a touch of nutmeg or vanilla extract to the sweet potato mixture for added flavor complexity.

Nutrition per serving

4 Servings
Calories 400kcal
Protein 5g
Carbohydrates 60g
Fiber 9g
Sugar 18g
Fat 18g

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