Sticky Sweet Potato Casserole with Crunchy Pecan Topping

This Sticky Sweet Potato Casserole with Crunchy Pecan Topping is a delightful combination of creamy, sweet mashed sweet potatoes and a crispy, buttery pecan topping. Perfect for holiday gatherings or a comforting side dish any time of the year, this dish balances sweetness and texture beautifully.

Ingredients###

For the Sweet Potato Filling:
– 4 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup melted butter
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 teaspoon salt

For the Pecan Topping:
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup brown sugar
– 1/3 cup softened butter
– 1 cup chopped pecans

Instructions###

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and set it aside.

2. Cook the sweet potatoes: Place the cubed sweet potatoes in a large pot and cover with water. Bring to a boil and cook until tender, about 15 minutes. Drain and transfer to a large mixing bowl.

3. Mash the sweet potatoes: Add the granulated sugar, eggs, melted butter, milk, vanilla extract, and salt to the sweet potatoes. Use a potato masher or electric mixer to mash and mix until smooth.

4. Assemble the filling: Spread the sweet potato mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish.

5. Prepare the pecan topping: In a medium bowl, mix together the flour and brown sugar. Cut in the softened butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in the chopped pecans.

6. Add the topping: Sprinkle the pecan mixture evenly over the sweet potato filling.

7. Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the sweet potatoes are hot and bubbly.

8. Cool and serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy the delightful combination of sweet and crunchy in every bite!

Notes###

– Make ahead: You can prepare the sweet potato filling and pecan topping separately, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Assemble the casserole just before baking.
– Optional add-ins: For extra flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of ground cinnamon or nutmeg to the sweet potato mixture.