Paula Deen Sweet Potato Casserole

A Comforting Southern Tradition

There’s something magical about comfort food. The kind of dish that fills your kitchen with warmth and nostalgia, bringing back cherished family memories. Paula Deen’s sweet potato casserole is one of those classic recipes that instantly reminds you of holiday gatherings, laughter around the table, and the irresistible aroma of sweet potatoes caramelizing in the oven.

If you’re looking for a Southern-style sweet potato casserole recipe that is rich, creamy, and topped with a crunchy pecan streusel, you’ve come to the right place. This recipe, made famous by Paula Deen, is a must-have for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any special occasion. In this article, you’ll learn everything from ingredients to step-by-step instructions, storage tips, and delicious variations.

Let’s dive into this comforting delight and make your holiday meals unforgettable!

Why Paula Deen’s Sweet Potato Casserole is So Special

Paula Deen’s version of sweet potato casserole stands out because of its perfect balance of flavors and textures. Unlike traditional mashed sweet potatoes, this dish offers:

• A smooth, buttery filling that melts in your mouth.
• A crunchy, caramelized pecan topping that adds depth and texture.
• Just the right amount of sweetness, making it a favorite even among those who don’t love overly sugary dishes.
• A versatile recipe that can be customized to your taste with marshmallows, spices, or healthier swaps.

If you love Southern comfort food, this recipe will soon become a staple in your kitchen.

Ingredients for Paula Deen’s Sweet Potato Casserole

Sweet Potato Filling

Ingredient	Quantity
Mashed Sweet Potatoes	3 cups
Granulated Sugar	1 cup
Melted Butter	1/2 cup
Beaten Eggs	2
Vanilla Extract	1 teaspoon
Milk	1/2 cup
Salt	1/2 teaspoon

Crunchy Pecan Topping

Ingredient	Quantity
Brown Sugar (packed)	1 cup
All-Purpose Flour	1/3 cup
Melted Butter	1/3 cup
Chopped Pecans	1 cup

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Sweet Potatoes

1. Peel and Chop: If using fresh sweet potatoes, peel and cut them into chunks.
2. Boil Until Soft: Bring a pot of water to a boil and cook the potatoes until fork-tender.
3. Mash Until Smooth: Drain the potatoes and mash them using a hand mixer or potato masher.

Making the Casserole Base

1. Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix mashed sweet potatoes, sugar, melted butter, eggs, vanilla extract, milk, and salt.
2. Blend Until Creamy: Stir until smooth and well incorporated.
3. Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it evenly.

Creating the Pecan Topping

1. Mix the Ingredients: In a separate bowl, combine brown sugar, flour, melted butter, and chopped pecans.
2. Make a Crumbly Mixture: Stir until the ingredients resemble coarse crumbs.
3. Sprinkle Over the Casserole: Evenly distribute the topping over the sweet potato mixture.

Baking the Casserole

1. Preheat Oven: Set the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Bake Until Golden: Bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes or until the topping is crisp and golden brown.
3. Cool Slightly & Serve: Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

Expert Tips for the Best Sweet Potato Casserole

• Use fresh sweet potatoes instead of canned for a richer flavor and better texture.
• Reduce the sugar if you prefer a less sweet casserole
• Make it ahead of time by assembling the casserole the day before and refrigerating it overnight before baking.
• Double the topping if you love extra crunch.

Delicious Variations to Try

Marshmallow Topping

• If you prefer a gooey texture, swap the pecan topping for mini marshmallows.
• Bake until the marshmallows are golden and slightly toasted.

Healthier Version

• Reduce sugar and replace it with honey or maple syrup.
• Use almond milk instead of whole milk.
• Swap butter with coconut oil for a dairy-free option

Nut-Free Option

• Replace pecans with crushed granola or oats for a similar crunch without nuts.

How to Store and Reheat Sweet Potato Casserole

Storage

• Refrigeration: Keep leftovers in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: Freeze unbaked casserole for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking.

Reheating

• Oven: Reheat at 300°F for 15 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in 30-second intervals until warm.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I make Paula Deen’s Sweet Potato Casserole ahead of time?

Yes! Prepare the casserole up to a day in advance, cover it, and refrigerate. Bake fresh before serving.

What can I use instead of pecans?

If you have a nut allergy, try a streusel topping with oats and brown sugar.

Can I freeze sweet potato casserole?

Absolutely! Store the unbaked casserole in the freezer for up to 3 months. Let it thaw in the refrigerator before baking.

How do I make this recipe less sweet?

Reduce the sugar in the filling and topping or replace it with natural sweeteners like honey.

Conclusion

Paula Deen’s Sweet Potato Casserole is more than just a side dish—it’s a tradition. Whether you’re making it for a holiday feast or a cozy family dinner, this recipe will bring warmth and joy to your table. The creamy sweet potatoes paired with a crunchy pecan topping create an irresistible contrast that everyone will love.

So why not give it a try? Follow this easy recipe, make it your own with fun variations, and enjoy a dish that will quickly become a favorite in your home.

Have you made this recipe? Share your experience in the comments below and let us know your favorite way to enjoy sweet potato casserole!