Print

Cozy Brown Sugar Pecan Sweet Potato Casserole: 30-Minute Easy Side

brown sugar pecan sweet potato casserole - featured image

A quick and comforting sweet potato casserole featuring a creamy mash topped with a crunchy, caramelized brown sugar and toasted pecan crust. Perfect for holidays or busy weeknights.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 pounds sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
  • 1/2 cup packed brown sugar (for base)
  • 1/4 cup milk (whole or half-and-half)
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup pecans, chopped
  • 2 tablespoons butter, melted (for topping)
  • 1/4 cup packed brown sugar (for topping)
  • 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour

Instructions

  1. Peel sweet potatoes and cut into 1-inch cubes. Place in a large pot, cover with cold water, add a pinch of salt, and bring to a boil. Simmer for 12-15 minutes until tender. Drain well and let steam dry for 2 minutes.
  2. Return drained potatoes to the warm pot. Add 4 tablespoons softened butter, 1/2 cup brown sugar, milk, vanilla, cinnamon, and salt. Mash gently until combined but slightly lumpy. Transfer to an 8×8 inch baking dish and spread evenly.
  3. Heat a small skillet over medium heat. Toast chopped pecans for 2-3 minutes until fragrant and slightly darker. Transfer to a bowl.
  4. In the same skillet, melt 2 tablespoons butter. Whisk in 1/4 cup brown sugar and 1 tablespoon flour until a thick paste forms. Stir in toasted pecans.
  5. Spoon the pecan mixture evenly over the sweet potato mash, pressing gently to adhere. Broil on high for 3-5 minutes until the topping is golden brown and bubbly. Cool for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

Ensure sweet potatoes are drained and steamed dry to prevent a watery mash. Toast pecans to enhance flavor. Watch closely under the broiler to prevent burning. Can be made ahead and refrigerated for up to 24 hours.

Nutrition

Keywords: sweet potato casserole, brown sugar pecan, holiday side dish, easy dinner, gluten-free option, dairy-free option, Thanksgiving recipe, quick side dish