Rich Southern Sweet Potato Casserole

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Creamy, decadent, and crowned with a crunchy pecan topping, this Rich Southern Sweet Potato Casserole is a comfort food masterpiece that belongs on every holiday table. Velvety mashed sweet potatoes are whipped with butter and sugar, topped with a marshmallow-melting layer of whipped topping, and finished with a brown sugar pecan crumble that adds the perfect nutty crunch in every bite.

Whether you’re serving Thanksgiving dinner or just craving a taste of the South, this casserole captures the warmth and sweetness of classic Southern hospitality. It’s a make-ahead-friendly dish that doubles as a dessert-like side—especially when those caramelized edges come into play.

Why You’ll Love This Rich Southern Sweet Potato Casserole

This recipe is more than your average side dish. It offers the comfort of mashed sweet potatoes, the fluffiness of whipped cream, and the irresistible crunch of pecans. It balances sweetness and texture in every spoonful, making it a crowd favorite for kids and adults alike. And let’s not forget: it travels well and reheats like a dream.

What Makes a Sweet Potato Casserole Truly Southern?

A Southern-style casserole always leans into richness. That means using real butter, sugar, and creamy elements like evaporated milk or whipped topping. The topping matters too—a generous layer of pecans and brown sugar is key for that deep, toasted sweetness.

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Ingredients for the Rich Southern Sweet Potato Casserole

Sweet Potatoes
The heart of the dish—naturally sweet and smooth once cooked and mashed. They form the creamy base.

Granulated Sugar
Adds sweetness and brings out the natural flavor of the sweet potatoes.

Unsalted Butter
Melted into the warm sweet potatoes for a rich, buttery texture that melts in your mouth.

Evaporated Milk
Thicker than regular milk, it adds creaminess without watering down the casserole.

Eggs
Help bind the ingredients and provide a light, custard-like texture.

Vanilla Extract
Boosts the warmth and depth of flavor.

Salt
Balances the sweetness and enhances all the other flavors.

Whipped Topping
A soft, fluffy layer that contrasts beautifully with the dense sweet potato base and crunchy topping.

Brown Sugar
Used in the topping to caramelize and pair with the pecans for a sweet and crunchy finish.

Chopped Pecans
Toasted on top for that classic Southern crunch.

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How To Make the Rich Southern Sweet Potato Casserole

Step 1: Prepare the Sweet Potatoes

Peel and cube 4 cups of sweet potatoes. Boil until tender, about 15 minutes. Drain and mash in a large mixing bowl until smooth.

Step 2: Make the Filling

To the mashed sweet potatoes, add 1/2 cup granulated sugar, 1/2 cup melted unsalted butter, 1/3 cup evaporated milk, 2 beaten eggs, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, and 1/4 teaspoon salt. Mix until fully combined and creamy.

Step 3: Layer the Casserole

Spread the sweet potato mixture evenly into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Top with an even layer of 2 cups whipped topping.

Step 4: Add the Crunchy Pecan Topping

In a small bowl, combine 1/2 cup brown sugar and 1 cup chopped pecans. Sprinkle this over the whipped topping layer.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 30 minutes, until the top is golden brown and slightly bubbling at the edges. Cool slightly before serving.

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How to Serve Southern Sweet Potato Casserole

This casserole serves 8 to 10 people comfortably. It shines as a holiday side but also works wonderfully as a brunch treat or potluck dessert. Pair it with turkey, ham, or roasted vegetables for the full experience.

How to Store and Reheat This Sweet Potato Casserole

Cover leftovers tightly with foil or transfer to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, warm in a 300°F oven until heated through. You can also freeze the unbaked casserole (without the whipped topping and pecan layer) for up to 2 months—just thaw and add toppings before baking.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use canned sweet potatoes?
Yes, just make sure to drain them well and adjust the sugar since canned sweet potatoes are sometimes sweetened.

What can I use instead of evaporated milk?
Heavy cream or half-and-half can work as substitutes. Avoid using regular milk as it may make the filling too loose.

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prepare the sweet potato base a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Add toppings and bake before serving.

Can I use fresh whipped cream instead of whipped topping?
Yes, but keep in mind that whipped cream may deflate during baking, while store-bought whipped topping holds its shape better.

Is this more of a side dish or a dessert?
It’s both! In Southern homes, it often doubles as a dessert thanks to its sweetness and texture.

Want More Casserole Ideas?

If you loved this Rich Southern Sweet Potato Casserole, check out these other cozy classics:

• Creamy Chicken and Mushroom Bake
• Runza Casserole
• Cheesy Creamed Spinach
• Old Fashioned Goulash
• Beef and Potato Casserole

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And if you give this a try, let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you go extra on the pecans or keep it classic? I love hearing your variations!

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