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 9x13-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.