Favorite Sweet Potato Casserole

Prep: 15 min Cook: 50 min Serves: 8 Cuisine: American

A comforting sweet potato casserole with a rich, sweet flavor, topped with nuts and baked to perfection—ideal for holiday gatherings or family dinners.

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Ingredients

  • 2 1/2 lb. sweet potatoes
  • 5/8 cup light brown sugar
  • 1/2 tsp. cinnamon
  • 1 egg
  • 1 cup milk
  • 2 Tbsp. butter
  • 1/4 cup chopped nuts

Instructions

  1. Mash the cooked sweet potatoes, then stir in 1/2 cup light brown sugar and cinnamon.
  2. Beat the egg and stir it into the milk.
  3. Gradually stir the milk mixture into the sweet potato mixture.
  4. Pour the combined mixture into a 2-quart casserole dish.
  5. Dot the top with butter and sprinkle with the remaining brown sugar.
  6. Sprinkle the chopped nuts on top.
  7. Bake at 325°F (160°C) for 45 to 50 minutes until heated through and golden on top.

Tips & Substitutions

For a smoother consistency, ensure the sweet potatoes are fully cooked and well-mashed. You can substitute almond milk for a dairy-free version or use maple syrup instead of brown sugar for a different flavor profile. Adding a pinch of nutmeg can enhance the warm spices. If you want a crunchy topping, consider using crushed graham crackers or oats along with the nuts.

Serving Suggestions

This sweet potato casserole is perfect for holiday gatherings or as a comforting side dish for a family dinner. It pairs beautifully with savory dishes like roasted turkey or ham. Consider serving it alongside a fresh salad, such as Homemakers Wonder Salad, to balance the richness of the casserole.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover the casserole with foil and warm it in a 325°F oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions, but be sure to cover them to retain moisture.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Favorite Sweet Potato Casserole contains roughly 884 calories, with 12g protein, 162g carbohydrates, and 22g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (36% of the Daily Value), iron (26% of the Daily Value), and protein (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 508mg per serving (22% of the Daily Value).

884 kcal 44% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 12.3g 25% DV
Total Fat 22.3g 29% DV
Carbs 161.9g 59% DV
Fiber 0.3g 1% DV
Sugar 32.3g 65% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 508.3mg 22% DV
Potassium 920.6mg 20% DV
Cholesterol 390mg 100% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 145.9mcg 16% DV
Vitamin C 5.4mg 6% DV
Vitamin D 0.5mcg 3% DV
Calcium 466.5mg 36% DV
Iron 4.8mg 26% DV
Diet fit Low-fat
Contains Milk Egg

Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.

* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the sweet potato mixture a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just add the toppings and bake before serving. This makes it a great option for holiday meals where you want to save time.

What can I use instead of eggs for a vegan version?

To make this casserole vegan, replace the egg with a flaxseed meal or chia seed mixture (1 tablespoon of seeds mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water). It will help bind the mixture together while keeping it plant-based.

Can I freeze sweet potato casserole?

Yes, you can freeze the casserole before baking. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. When ready to bake, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and then bake as directed.

Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).

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