If you’re looking for the ultimate holiday side dish, Chef John’s Sweet Potato Casserole is a must-try. Creamy mashed sweet potatoes topped with a buttery, crunchy pecan topping make this dish unforgettable. It balances rich sweetness with nutty texture, making it a star on any Thanksgiving or Christmas table.
Chef John’s Sweet Potato Casserole:
This casserole is more than just comfort food—it’s tradition served with elegance. Perfectly seasoned sweet potatoes create a silky base, while the golden pecan crust adds crunch and flavor. Every bite feels festive and indulgent, making it one of the most loved holiday recipes.
History of Sweet Potato Casserole:
Sweet potato casseroles became popular in the early 20th century, often topped with marshmallows. Over time, variations emerged, including nutty, buttery toppings like in this recipe. Chef John’s version highlights Southern traditions by pairing sweet potatoes with pecans, creating a dish that’s both nostalgic and refined.
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Chef John’s Sweet Potato Casserole
Ingredients
For the sweet potato base:
- 4 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- ½ cup brown sugar
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- ½ cup milk
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ½ tsp ground cinnamon
- ¼ tsp nutmeg
- Pinch of salt
For the pecan topping:
- 1 cup chopped pecans
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- ½ cup brown sugar
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
- Boil sweet potatoes until tender, about 15–20 minutes. Drain and mash until smooth.
- Stir in butter, sugar, eggs, milk, vanilla, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Mix well.
- Spread sweet potato mixture evenly into the baking dish.
- In a bowl, combine pecans, flour, brown sugar, and butter. Stir to form a crumbly topping.
- Sprinkle topping over sweet potatoes.
- Bake uncovered for 30–35 minutes, until golden brown and set.
- Let cool slightly before serving.
Notes
- Adjust sugar to your taste for a less sweet version.
- Freshly baked sweet potatoes give richer flavour than boiling.
- Toast pecans lightly for extra crunch.
- This casserole reheats well the next day.
- Perfect alongside turkey, ham, or roasted meats.
Tips for Sweet Potato:
- Use half marshmallow topping and half pecan topping for variety.
- Add a splash of orange juice for brightness.
- Make ahead and refrigerate before baking.
- Swap pecans for walnuts if preferred.
- Mix in shredded coconut for a tropical twist.
FAQ’s for Potato Casserole:
Q:Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, prepare it a day in advance and bake before serving.
Q:Can I freeze it?
Yes, freeze before baking, then thaw and bake when needed.
Q:What’s the best sweet potato to use?
Orange-fleshed sweet potatoes (like Beauregard) work best.
Q:Can I make it dairy-free?
Yes, substitute butter with coconut oil and milk with almond milk.
Q:Is this dessert or a side dish?
It’s traditionally served as a side dish, but it tastes like dessert.
Conclusion:
Chef John’s Sweet Potato Casserole is the ultimate blend of creamy, sweet, and crunchy. It’s simple to prepare, deeply flavourful, and ideal for holiday celebrations. With its rich texture and pecan topping, this dish will win a permanent place on your festive table.