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Best Creamy Brown Sugar Pecan Sweet Potato Casserole

creamy brown sugar pecan sweet potato casserole - featured image

A rich, creamy sweet potato casserole featuring a smooth mashed potato base topped with a caramelized brown sugar and butter pecan crust. This crowd-pleasing side dish is perfect for Thanksgiving and holiday gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cans (29 oz each) pureed sweet potatoes or yams
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 cup light brown sugar, packed
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1 1/2 cups pecan halves, roughly chopped
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350ยฐF (175ยฐC) and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
  2. Drain canned sweet potatoes thoroughly in a colander for 10 minutes to remove excess moisture.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, combine drained sweet potatoes, softened butter, heavy cream, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
  4. Mix with a hand mixer or sturdy whisk until completely smooth and creamy, about 2-3 minutes.
  5. Transfer the potato mixture to the prepared baking dish and spread evenly.
  6. In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt butter and brown sugar together, stirring constantly until smooth (3-4 minutes). Do not boil vigorously.
  7. Remove saucepan from heat and stir in chopped pecans, salt, and an extra pinch of cinnamon if desired.
  8. Spoon the pecan mixture evenly over the potato layer.
  9. Bake for 25-30 minutes until the topping is bubbly and slightly caramelized.
  10. Let cool for 5-10 minutes before serving.

Notes

Ensure sweet potatoes are well-drained to prevent a soupy texture. Toasting pecans lightly before chopping enhances their flavor. If the topping browns too quickly, cover loosely with foil. This dish can be made ahead by storing the potato mixture and topping separately in the fridge for up to 24 hours.

Nutrition

Keywords: sweet potato casserole, brown sugar pecan topping, Thanksgiving side dish, creamy sweet potatoes, holiday recipes, easy casserole