Southern Sweet Potato Casserole: A Classic Dish Full of Comfort and Flavor

Instructions

1. Prepare the Sweet Potatoes:

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Place the peeled and cubed sweet potatoes in a large pot of water. Bring to a boil and cook until tender, about 15-20 minutes. Drain well.
Mash the sweet potatoes until smooth, using a potato masher or electric mixer.

2. Make the Sweet Potato Mixture:

In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed sweet potatoes with granulated sugar, melted butter, milk, eggs, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and a pinch of salt. Mix until the ingredients are fully incorporated and the mixture is creamy.
Spread the sweet potato mixture evenly into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.

3. Prepare the Topping:

In a medium bowl, mix the flour, brown sugar, and softened butter until crumbly. Stir in the chopped pecans.
Sprinkle the streusel topping evenly over the sweet potato layer.

For a marshmallow topping: Add mini marshmallows in an even layer on top of the sweet potato base instead of the pecan streusel—or use both for a decadent combination!

4. Bake the Casserole:

Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the filling is heated through.
If using marshmallows, bake for about 20 minutes, then add the marshmallows on top and return to the oven for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the marshmallows are lightly browned.

5. Serve and Enjoy:

Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving. This dish is best enjoyed warm as a side or dessert!

Tips for Perfect Southern Sweet Potato Casserole

Choose the Right Sweet Potatoes: Look for fresh, firm sweet potatoes with smooth skin for the best flavor.
Customize the Sweetness: Adjust the amount of sugar depending on your preference—go lighter if pairing with savory dishes.
Make It Ahead: You can prepare the casserole a day in advance. Assemble it without the topping, cover, and refrigerate. Add the topping just before baking.
Mix It Up: Swap pecans for walnuts, or add a sprinkle of shredded coconut for a fun twist.

Why Southern Sweet Potato Casserole Stands Out

This casserole isn’t just a dish—it’s a tradition. The rich history of sweet potatoes in Southern cooking dates back generations, making this recipe a symbol of comfort and nostalgia. Whether it’s the velvety sweetness of the filling or the crunch of the pecan topping, every bite feels like a warm hug from home.