If you’re searching for that perfect blend of creamy, sweet, and crunchy, you have to try the Ina Garten Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecans Recipe. This dish feels like a warm hug on a plate, combining silky mashed sweet potatoes with a crispy pecan topping that bakes to a delightful golden brown. It’s a comforting classic that will steal the show at any holiday table or family gathering, turning everyone into an instant fan. Trust me, once you whip up this casserole, it’s going to become a beloved staple you’ll want to share again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Ina Garten Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecans Recipe lies in its simplicity—each ingredient plays a starring role in creating layers of flavor and irresistible texture. From the naturally sweet and velvety potatoes to the toasty pecans, every element comes together perfectly.
- 3 pounds sweet potatoes: The foundation of the casserole, bringing natural sweetness and creamy texture.
- 1/2 cup brown sugar: Adds warmth and depth to the sweetness without overpowering.
- 1/2 cup milk: Keeps the mashed sweet potatoes smooth and moist.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened: Adds richness and a silky mouthfeel to the mixture.
- 2 large eggs: Help bind the ingredients together and give structure to the casserole.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: A subtle but essential layer of flavor that complements the sweetness.
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Offers cozy spice warmth, rounding out the flavor profile beautifully.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and intensifies the overall flavor.
- 1 cup pecans, chopped: Provides a crunchy, nutty contrast topping that creates irresistible texture.
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the pecans just enough for that perfect topping crunch.
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour: Helps bind the pecan topping and adds to its crispiness.
How to Make Ina Garten Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecans Recipe
Step 1: Boil and Prep the Sweet Potatoes
Start by peeling and dicing your sweet potatoes into evenly sized chunks. This ensures they cook uniformly and mash smoothly later. Place them in a large pot, cover with water, and bring to a boil over medium-high heat. Cook until they are tender—about 20 to 25 minutes—which means they are easily pierced with a fork. After cooking, drain them well and let them cool just enough to handle.
Step 2: Mash the Potatoes Until Smooth
Once cool enough, transfer your sweet potatoes to a large mixing bowl. Use a potato masher or a fork to mash them thoroughly, aiming for a smooth texture free of lumps. This creamy base is what gives the casserole its luscious body, so take your time to get it just right.
Step 3: Add the Flavorful Mix-Ins
Here’s where the magic happens. Stir in the softened butter, brown sugar, milk, eggs, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt thoroughly with a whisk. This combination not only adds sweetness and richness but also creates a flavor depth that makes this Ina Garten Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecans Recipe uniquely comforting. Give it a quick taste and adjust the sweetness if needed—you’re building the perfect balance.
Step 4: Prepare the Pecan Topping
In a separate bowl, combine your chopped pecans, granulated sugar, and flour. Mix these together until every pecan is nicely coated. This mix is your crunchy, sweet topping that bakes into a crisp crust, giving the casserole that glorious texture contrast everyone loves.
Step 5: Assemble the Casserole
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the smooth sweet potato mixture evenly into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. This even layer will ensure consistent baking and that every bite has that smooth, creamy center. Generously sprinkle the pecan topping over the sweet potato layer, making sure to cover the surface completely for that perfect crunchy finish.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Pop your casserole into the oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the pecan topping turns a golden brown, releasing that toasty aroma that signals the final moment of perfection. The casserole should be warmed through and bubbling slightly, making it impossible to resist digging in.
How to Serve Ina Garten Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecans Recipe
Garnishes
While this casserole shines perfectly as is, a sprinkle of freshly chopped pecans just before serving adds extra crunch and visual appeal. For a little extra flair, a dollop of lightly whipped cream or a drizzle of maple syrup can elevate the flavors even further, making each bite a little celebration.
Side Dishes
This Ina Garten Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecans Recipe pairs wonderfully with savory mains such as roasted turkey, glazed ham, or herbed chicken. Its sweet and slightly spiced character perfectly balances out richer, savory dishes for a truly harmonious meal.
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re serving this casserole at a gathering, consider transferring portions into individual ramekins for a stunning presentation. You can also sprinkle a bit of toasted shredded coconut on top for a tropical twist or add some fresh rosemary sprigs on the side to introduce an herbaceous contrast both visually and aromatically.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftovers from the Ina Garten Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecans Recipe keep beautifully in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Covering it tightly helps preserve the creamy texture and keeps that pecan topping crunchy the next day.
Freezing
If you want to prepare this casserole well in advance, it freezes very well. Just assemble it as usual, cover tightly with foil, and freeze before baking. When you’re ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge and then bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if needed until warmed through and bubbly.
Reheating
To reheat, pop the casserole back into a 350°F oven for about 15 to 20 minutes, or until heated through and the topping has regained some crunch. Avoid microwaving if you can, as that tends to soften the topping a bit too much. This way, you’ll savor the same textures and flavors as freshly baked.
FAQs
Can I substitute other nuts for pecans in this recipe?
Yes! While pecans are traditional and offer a rich, buttery crunch, walnuts or almonds can make excellent substitutes. Just chop them roughly and prepare the topping the same way.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegan?
You can adapt this casserole by replacing butter with vegan margarine, using plant-based milk, and swapping eggs for flax eggs or another vegan binder. The flavor might shift slightly, but it will still be delicious.
How far ahead can I prepare the casserole before baking?
This dish can be fully assembled and stored in the fridge a day ahead. Just cover tightly and refrigerate. When ready, bake it fresh to keep the topping crisp and the inside creamy.
Can I double the recipe for a larger crowd?
Absolutely! Just double every ingredient and use a larger baking dish or two. Keep an eye on the baking time, as it might need a few extra minutes to heat through evenly.
What makes Ina Garten Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecans Recipe so special?
It’s the perfect balance of naturally sweet potatoes, spiced and creamy filling, combined with that signature crunchy pecan topping. Ina Garten’s recipe is straightforward, reliable, and delivers that restaurant-quality flavor every time.
Final Thoughts
If you want a dish that feels both indulgent and heartwarming, the Ina Garten Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecans Recipe is an absolute must-try. Its blend of smooth sweetness and crunchy topping is pure comfort in every bite. Once you make it, I’m confident this casserole will quickly become one of your most cherished recipes to share at holiday meals or anytime you want to impress your loved ones with something truly special and delicious.
Print
Ina Garten Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecans Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Delicious Ina Garten Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecans is a comforting and flavorful side dish perfect for holiday meals or any special occasion. Creamy mashed sweet potatoes are enriched with butter, brown sugar, and warm spices, then topped with a crunchy, sweet pecan topping that bakes to a perfect golden brown.
Ingredients
Sweet Potato Mixture
- 3 pounds sweet potatoes
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Pecan Topping
- 1 cup pecans, chopped
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
Instructions
- Prepare Sweet Potatoes: Peel and dice the sweet potatoes into even chunks. Place them in a large pot, cover with water, and bring to a boil over medium-high heat. Cook for 20-25 minutes until tender and easily pierced with a fork. Drain and let cool slightly.
- Mash Sweet Potatoes: Transfer the cooled sweet potatoes to a mixing bowl and mash with a potato masher or fork until smooth and lump-free.
- Mix Sweet Potato Base: Add softened butter, brown sugar, milk, eggs, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt to the mashed sweet potatoes. Whisk together until well combined and creamy, adjusting sweetness to taste if needed.
- Prepare Pecan Topping: In a separate bowl, combine chopped pecans, granulated sugar, and flour. Mix well until the pecans are evenly coated.
- Assemble Casserole: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the sweet potato mixture evenly in a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Sprinkle the pecan topping evenly over the sweet potato layer.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the casserole is heated through.
Notes
- For a gluten-free version, substitute all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour or almond flour in the topping.
- Use freshly chopped pecans for the best texture and flavor.
- Let the casserole rest for a few minutes after baking for easier serving.
- Sweetness can be adjusted by modifying the amount of brown sugar in the sweet potato mixture or granulated sugar in the topping.
- This casserole reheats well and can be stored covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
