Sweet potato casserole is a beloved holiday dish that has become a staple at Thanksgiving and other family gatherings. This classic recipe combines the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with a buttery, crunchy topping, creating a perfect blend of flavors and textures. The old fashioned version focuses on simple, wholesome ingredients that highlight the earthy flavor of the sweet potatoes while giving the dish a nostalgic charm.
1. Old Fashioned Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe
Ingredients
For the Sweet Potato Base
- 4 large sweet potatoes (about 3 pounds)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/4 cup packed light brown sugar
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- Pinch of salt
For the Streusel Topping
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans
Optional Marshmallow Topping
- 2 cups miniature marshmallows (if you prefer a marshmallow topping)
Instructions
Step 1. Prepare the Sweet Potatoes
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or nonstick cooking spray.
Place the sweet potato chunks in a large pot, cover them with water, and bring to a boil. Cook for about 15-20 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes are fork-tender.
Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot. Mash until smooth using a potato masher or a hand mixer for a creamier texture.
Step 2. Make the Sweet Potato Mixture
Add the melted butter, brown sugar, granulated sugar, milk, eggs, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt to the mashed sweet potatoes. Mix until everything is well combined and smooth.
Taste the mixture and adjust the sweetness or spice levels to your preference.
Transfer the sweet potato mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly.
Step 3. Prepare the Streusel Topping
In a medium bowl, combine the flour, brown sugar, and softened butter. Mix together with a fork or your hands until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
Stir in the chopped pecans until they are evenly distributed.
Sprinkle the streusel topping evenly over the sweet potato mixture.
Step 4. Bake the Casserole
Bake the casserole for 30-35 minutes, or until the streusel topping is golden brown and the sweet potatoes are heated through.
If you prefer a marshmallow topping, add mini marshmallows on top of the casserole during the last 5-10 minutes of baking. Continue baking until the marshmallows are puffed and golden brown.
Step 5. Cool and Serve
Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for about 10 minutes before serving. This allows the casserole to set slightly and makes it easier to serve.
2. Variations
Savory Sweet Potato Casserole: If you prefer a more savory dish, cut back on the sugar in the sweet potato mixture and add a touch of thyme or sage instead. Top with a Parmesan and breadcrumb mixture for a savory twist.
Vegan Sweet Potato Casserole: Substitute the butter with vegan butter or coconut oil, and replace the eggs with a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water). Use almond milk or another plant-based milk, and top with a pecan crumble instead of marshmallows.
Maple-Pecan Sweet Potato Casserole: Swap out the brown sugar in the topping for maple syrup to give the casserole a rich, deep sweetness. The pecans and maple syrup create a wonderful combination that enhances the earthy flavor of the sweet potatoes.
3. Serving Suggestions
Sweet potato casserole is a versatile dish that pairs well with many different types of meals. Here are a few ideas:
Holiday Dinners: Serve this casserole alongside roasted turkey, ham, or prime rib for a classic holiday feast.
Everyday Meals: This dish can also be served with roasted chicken or pork for a comforting weeknight dinner.
Brunch: Sweet potato casserole can even be enjoyed as part of a brunch spread, particularly with breakfast sausages and eggs.
This old fashioned sweet potato casserole recipe brings together the best of traditional flavors with its creamy sweet potato base and crunchy streusel topping. Perfect for the holidays or any family gathering, this comforting dish is sure to be a hit at the dinner table. With its rich sweetness, buttery texture, and nostalgic flavors, it’s no wonder sweet potato casserole has remained a favorite for generations.
