If you’re searching for that cozy, heartwarming dish that will steal the show at your next family gathering or holiday feast, look no further than Terry’s Traditional Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecan Topping Recipe. This classic casserole strikes the perfect balance between velvety sweet potatoes and a crunchy, caramelized pecan topping. It’s creamy, nutty, and sweet in all the right ways, and it brings the kind of comfort that makes you want to go back for seconds—maybe thirds. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a kitchen newbie, this recipe is straightforward and incredibly rewarding, guaranteed to become a beloved staple on your table year after year.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of Terry’s Traditional Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecan Topping Recipe lies in its simple yet essential ingredients. Each item plays a crucial role, from the smooth sweetness of the canned sweet potatoes to the rich, buttery crunch of the pecan topping, creating a harmonious medley of textures and flavors.
- 2 cans cut sweet potatoes in syrup (40 oz each): These provide the luscious base that’s both sweet and creamy; rinsing and draining cuts back extra syrup for perfect sweetness.
- 1 cup sugar: Adds an extra layer of sweetness that complements the natural sugars in the potatoes.
- 1/2 tsp salt: Enhances all the flavors, balancing sweetness beautifully.
- 2 eggs (beaten): These bind the casserole together, giving it structure and richness.
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter (melted): Infuses the casserole with a velvety texture and buttery depth.
- 1/2 cup milk: Lightens the mixture and ensures a smooth, creamy consistency.
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon: Brings subtle warmth and aromatic charm.
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract: Adds a delicate sweetness and depth of flavor.
- 1 cup light brown sugar: Key to that caramel-like, slightly sticky topping.
- 1/3 cup all-purpose flour: Helps hold the topping together while providing a tender crumb.
- 1 cup pecans (chopped): The star crunch that gives the casserole its unforgettable texture and nutty flavor.
- 5 tbsp unsalted butter (melted): Combines with brown sugar and flour to create the decadent topping.
How to Make Terry’s Traditional Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecan Topping Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Get your oven warmed to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. This is a key step because starting with a properly heated oven ensures even cooking from the moment the casserole goes in. While it’s warming up, you can begin prepping your ingredients to save time.
Step 2: Mix the Sweet Potato Base
Rinse and drain your canned sweet potatoes thoroughly to avoid an overly syrupy casserole. In a large bowl, combine the sweet potatoes with sugar, salt, beaten eggs, melted butter, milk, cinnamon, and vanilla extract. Mix everything with a sturdy spoon or an electric mixer on low speed until smooth and creamy. This will be the luscious foundation for your casserole.
Step 3: Prepare the Pecan Topping
In a separate bowl, stir together the light brown sugar, all-purpose flour, and chopped pecans. Pour in the melted butter and mix well until crumbs form. This topping will give your casserole that famous crunchy, caramelized finish that everyone raves about.
Step 4: Assemble and Bake
Spoon the sweet potato mixture into a lightly greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it evenly. Sprinkle the pecan topping generously over the surface, covering every inch for that perfect crunch in every bite. Pop it into the oven and bake for 45 minutes or until the topping is golden brown and the filling is hot and bubbling around the edges.
How to Serve Terry’s Traditional Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecan Topping Recipe
Garnishes
While this casserole shines on its own, a few thoughtfully chosen garnishes can elevate the experience. A light dusting of powdered sugar or a small handful of extra toasted pecans just before serving adds a lovely touch. For an unexpected twist, a drizzle of warm maple syrup can intensify the sweetness and aroma, making every forkful especially decadent.
Side Dishes
This casserole pairs beautifully with classic holiday mains like roast turkey, honey-glazed ham, or crunchy fried chicken. It also complements lighter sides such as a crisp green salad with vinaigrette or some sautéed green beans. The sweet and nutty elements of Terry’s Traditional Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecan Topping Recipe are versatile enough to balance savory dishes while still standing out as a star side dish.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try assembling individual mini casseroles in ramekins — perfect for gatherings or potlucks where guests want their own personal portion. You can also layer this casserole in clear glass dishes or trifle bowls to show off its rich colors and textures. Imagine the beautiful contrast of the orange sweet potato base and golden pecan topping on display; it’s a feast for the eyes as well as the palate.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with leftovers (and who wouldn’t?), simply cover the casserole tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate. It will keep fresh for up to 3 days, making it an easy option for quick reheating and enjoying again without losing any of its deliciousness.
Freezing
Terry’s Traditional Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecan Topping Recipe freezes beautifully. To freeze, assemble the casserole but don’t bake it. Wrap the dish tightly in foil or transfer portions to freezer-safe containers. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready, thaw overnight in the fridge before baking as usual.
Reheating
To reheat leftover casserole, place it in a preheated oven at 325 degrees Fahrenheit, covered loosely with foil to prevent the topping from burning. Heat for 20-25 minutes or until warmed through. If you like your pecans extra crunchy, remove the foil for the last 5 minutes of reheating to crisp up the topping again.
FAQs
Can I use fresh sweet potatoes instead of canned?
Absolutely! If you prefer fresh sweet potatoes, roast or boil them until tender, then mash before mixing with the other base ingredients. The texture will be slightly different, but just as delicious and fresh-tasting.
What can I substitute for pecans if I have a nut allergy?
Chopped roasted sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds can provide a nice crunch without nuts. Alternatively, a topping made from toasted oats, brown sugar, and butter can add a similar texture experience.
Is this casserole very sweet?
This recipe strikes a lovely balance of sweetness—rich without being overpowering. The pecan topping adds a caramelized depth that tones down excessive sweetness, making it a crowd-pleaser even for those who prefer less sugary dishes.
Can I make this dish vegan?
To make it vegan, substitute eggs with flax eggs or a commercial egg replacer, use plant-based milk, and replace butter with vegan margarine or coconut oil. The flavor stays wonderfully inviting and the texture creamy.
How far ahead can I prepare this casserole before baking?
You can assemble Terry’s Traditional Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecan Topping Recipe a day in advance. Keep it tightly covered in the refrigerator and bake when ready. This is a perfect make-ahead option for busy holidays!
Final Thoughts
Terry’s Traditional Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecan Topping Recipe is one of those timeless dishes that feel like a warm hug from the inside out. It carries the essence of tradition with every bite and brings people together around the table with its irresistible flavor and comforting textures. I can’t wait for you to try this recipe and share it with your loved ones—it’s a sure way to create memories along with a full belly and happy heart.
Print
Terry’s Traditional Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecan Topping Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Terry’s Traditional Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecan Topping is a classic holiday side dish featuring sweet potatoes mixed with warm spices and topped with a crunchy pecan streusel. This comforting casserole blends the rich flavors of cinnamon and vanilla with a sweet, nutty topping for a perfect balance of textures and tastes that will delight your family and guests.
Ingredients
Sweet Potato Mixture
- 2 cans cut sweet potatoes in syrup (40 oz each, sometimes called yams), rinsed and drained
- 1 cup sugar
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
Pecan Topping
- 1 cup light brown sugar
- 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup pecans, chopped
- 5 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius) to prepare for baking the casserole.
- Prepare Sweet Potato Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the rinsed and drained sweet potatoes with sugar, salt, beaten eggs, melted butter, milk, ground cinnamon, and vanilla extract. Mash thoroughly until the mixture is smooth and evenly blended.
- Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the sweet potato mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish, spreading it evenly to create a smooth layer.
- Make Pecan Topping: In a separate bowl, mix together the light brown sugar, all-purpose flour, and chopped pecans. Stir in the melted butter until the topping mixture becomes crumbly and well combined.
- Add Topping to Casserole: Evenly sprinkle the pecan topping over the sweet potato layer in the baking dish.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 45 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the casserole is heated through.
- Cool and Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and allow it to cool for 5-10 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld and the topping set.
Notes
- For a lighter version, reduce sugar or use a sugar substitute.
- You can substitute fresh cooked sweet potatoes for canned if preferred.
- Chop pecans to your desired size for a coarser or finer topping.
- This dish can be prepared ahead of time and baked just before serving.
- Make sure to drain the canned sweet potatoes well to avoid a soggy casserole.
