This sweet potato casserole with pecan streusel topping is what holiday dreams are made of. I first had this at a steakhouse and knew I could recreate it. Growing up sweet potatoes was always my favorite side at Thanksgiving, but my mom always made it differently than most. I never grew up with marshmallows on my sweet potatoes, rather apples were mixed in with a ton of brown sugar and butter. I knew I wanted to incorporate apples into this recipe because the flavor combination is SO GOOD! In order to keep that whipped consistency unsweetened applesauce was the obvious ingredient choice. This dish pairs well with protein and is fit for any holiday.
Tips for the Best Sweet Potato Casserole
- Contrary to what critics say, canned yams are just fine for this recipe. I actually prefer them over fresh. But if you’re set on using fresh, you’ll need 4 1/2 cups.
- Make sure to use unsweetened applesauce.
- You can pre-make this dish, cover tightly and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking.
Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecan Streusel Topping
This sweet potato casserole is a sweet dish so it pairs well with things like turkey or chicken. Balance. The potatoes are whipped and fluffy and the crunch of the streusel topping takes it over the top. You can make this the day before and store in the fridge to save time.
Ingredients
- 2 40 oz cans yams or 4 1/2 cups cooked and mashed sweet potatoes strained
- 1/2 C salted butter melted
- 1/3 C milk whole
- 1 C brown sugar (can substitute white sugar)
- 1 C unsweetened applesauce
- 2 eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla
Topping
- 1 C brown sugar
- 1/2 C flour
- 1/3 C salted butter melted
- 1 C chopped pecans
Instructions
- To a bowl add strained yams, smash. Add milk, brown sugar, melted butter, unsweetened apple sauce, eggs and vanilla. Whisk until fully incorporated.
- Add to a buttered 9x13 pan
- For the topping mix flour and brown sugar together. Add melted butter, mix. Add chopped pecans in and mix until it all crumbles together. Cover the potatoes evenly with the topping.
- Bake in a 350 degree oven for 40 minutes, uncovered or until the topping is nice and crunchy.
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!