If you’re looking for the best sweet potato casserole that’s rich, buttery, and topped with a deliciously crunchy pecan streusel, you’ve just found it! Inspired by Paula Deen’s famous recipe, this copycat version delivers the same Southern-style comfort with a perfect balance of sweetness and texture.
This dish is a must-have for holiday gatherings, whether it’s Thanksgiving, Christmas, or just a cozy Sunday dinner. The creamy, mashed sweet potatoes combined with brown sugar, vanilla, and a buttery pecan topping create a casserole that’s both nostalgic and indulgent.
Why make this homemade version instead of searching for Paula Deen’s official recipe? Because this version is:
✔️ Easier to make with simple ingredients
✔️ Extra creamy and flavorful with roasting tips
✔️ Customizable (marshmallow topping option included!)
✔️ Make-ahead & freezer-friendly for stress-free holiday prep
So, whether you’re a long-time fan of Paula Deen’s Southern cooking or simply love a good sweet potato dish, this casserole will steal the show. Let’s dive into the best copycat recipe that’ll have everyone asking for seconds!
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
There are plenty of sweet potato casserole recipes out there, but this copycat Paula Deen sweet potato casserole stands out for all the right reasons! Here’s why you’ll love it:
✔️ Classic Southern Comfort Food
Paula Deen is known for her rich, buttery, and indulgent recipes, and this casserole is no exception. It’s the perfect blend of creamy, sweet, and crunchy, making it a comforting favorite for any occasion.
✔️ Perfect for Holidays & Special Gatherings
This dish steals the spotlight on Thanksgiving and Christmas dinner tables! The creamy sweet potatoes and crunchy pecan topping make it a crowd-pleaser, whether you’re hosting a family feast or bringing a dish to a potluck.
✔️ The Best Pecan Crumble Topping
Unlike some sweet potato casseroles that are too mushy or overly sweet, this one gets it just right with a crispy, buttery pecan topping. Every bite has that perfect crunch-to-creaminess ratio!
✔️ Customizable to Fit Your Taste
- Prefer a classic marshmallow topping instead? No problem!
- Need a nut-free version? Swap the pecans for an oat-based crumble.
- Want it less sweet? Reduce the sugar slightly without losing flavor.
✔️ Easy Make-Ahead & Freezer-Friendly
The holidays can be hectic, but this sweet potato casserole can be prepped in advance and stored in the fridge or freezer. That means less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying the feast!
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make this rich and buttery copycat Paula Deen sweet potato casserole, you’ll need simple pantry staples that come together for an irresistible Southern dish.
For the Sweet Potato Filling:
🥔 Sweet Potatoes (3 cups mashed) – The star of the dish! Use fresh sweet potatoes for the best flavor. Roasting enhances their natural sweetness.
🧈 Unsalted Butter (½ cup, melted) – Adds that signature rich and buttery taste Paula Deen is famous for.
🍬 Brown Sugar (½ cup) – Gives a deep, caramel-like sweetness that pairs perfectly with the sweet potatoes.
🥚 Eggs (2 large, beaten) – Helps bind the filling and gives it a light, fluffy texture.
🌿 Vanilla Extract (1 teaspoon) – Enhances the sweetness and rounds out the flavors.
🥛 Milk (⅓ cup) – Whole milk or heavy cream makes the casserole extra creamy.
For the Pecan Topping:
🌰 Chopped Pecans (1 cup) – The secret to that crunchy, golden topping. Toasting them slightly before baking makes them even more flavorful.
🍬 Brown Sugar (½ cup) – Adds sweetness and caramelizes beautifully when baked.
🌾 Flour (⅓ cup) – Helps create a streusel-like topping that holds together.
🧈 Melted Butter (¼ cup) – Ensures a rich, buttery crunch on top.
Optional Add-Ons & Substitutions:
✔️ Marshmallow Topping Alternative: Want a classic marshmallow-topped version? Swap the pecan topping for 2 cups of mini marshmallows and broil for a few minutes at the end.
✔️ Nut-Free Option: Substitute pecans with rolled oats or simply leave them out.
✔️ Healthier Version: Reduce sugar slightly and use coconut sugar for a natural alternative.
Step-By-Step Instructions: How to Make Copycat Paula Deen Sweet Potato Casserole
Making this Southern classic is super easy! Just follow these step-by-step instructions to achieve the perfect creamy filling and crispy pecan topping.
Step 1: Prepare the Sweet Potatoes 🥔
1️⃣ Roast for Maximum Flavor:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Wash and pierce 3-4 medium sweet potatoes with a fork.
- Place them on a baking sheet and roast for 45-50 minutes, or until fork-tender.
- Allow the sweet potatoes to cool, then carefully peel off the skin and mash them until you achieve a smooth consistency.
💡 Shortcut: If you’re short on time, you can boil peeled sweet potatoes for 15-20 minutes until soft. However, roasting enhances their natural sweetness!
Step 2: Make the Sweet Potato Filling 🥄
2️⃣ Mix the Ingredients:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine:
✅ 3 cups mashed sweet potatoes
✅ ½ cup melted butter
✅ ½ cup brown sugar
✅ 2 large eggs, beaten
✅ 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
✅ ⅓ cup milk (or heavy cream for extra richness) - Stir until smooth and well combined.
Step 3: Prepare the Pecan Topping 🌰
3️⃣ Make the Crunchy Topping:
- In a separate bowl, mix together:
✅ 1 cup chopped pecans
✅ ½ cup brown sugar
✅ ⅓ cup flour
✅ ¼ cup melted butter - Stir until the mixture is crumbly and well-coated in butter.
Step 4: Assemble & Bake 🍽️
4️⃣ Layer and Bake:
- Lightly coat a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or a non-stick cooking spray.
- Smooth the sweet potato mixture into an even layer in the baking dish.
- Sprinkle the pecan topping over the top.
🔥 Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30-35 minutes, until the topping is golden brown and crisp.
Step 5 (Optional): Add Marshmallow Topping 🍬
💡 Want the classic marshmallow topping?
- Bake the casserole without pecans for 25 minutes.
- Remove from oven, sprinkle 2 cups of mini marshmallows on top.
- Return to the oven for 5-7 minutes until golden brown.
Variations & Customizations
This copycat Paula Deen sweet potato casserole is already a Southern classic, but you can easily customize it to fit your preferences! Here are some delicious variations:
1️⃣ Marshmallow-Topped Sweet Potato Casserole 🍬
- Want that classic gooey marshmallow layer instead of the pecan topping? Simply swap it out for mini marshmallows!
- Follow the same recipe but skip the pecan mixture.
- Bake the casserole for 25 minutes, then add 2 cups of mini marshmallows on top.
- Return to the oven for 5-7 minutes, or until golden brown.
- 🔥 Pro Tip: Keep an eye on the marshmallows—they toast quickly!
2️⃣ Nut-Free Version 🚫🌰
- Allergic to nuts or serving guests who are? No problem!
- Replace the pecans with a brown sugar oat crumble:
✅ 1 cup rolled oats
✅ ½ cup brown sugar
✅ ⅓ cup flour
✅ ¼ cup melted butter - Mix together and use as a topping instead of pecans.
3️⃣ Healthier Sweet Potato Casserole 🥗
- Reduce sugar by 25-50% for a less sweet version.
- Swap brown sugar for coconut sugar (lower glycemic index).
- Replace regular milk with almond milk or oat milk.
- Substitute coconut oil for butter to make the recipe dairy-free
4️⃣ Gluten-Free Option 🌾🚫
- The filling is naturally gluten-free, but you’ll need to tweak the topping.
- Instead of regular flour, use:
✅ Almond flour for a nutty flavor
✅ Gluten-free oat flour for a mild taste - Everything else stays the same!
5️⃣ Extra Indulgent Version 🤤
- Want a richer, even more indulgent casserole? Try this:
✔️ Use heavy cream instead of milk for ultra-creaminess.
✔️ Double the pecan topping for extra crunch.
✔️ Drizzle with caramel sauce after baking for a decadent touch.
Tips for the Best Sweet Potato Casserole
Want to make this Paula Deen-style sweet potato casserole absolutely perfect? Follow these expert tips for the best texture, flavor, and crunch!
1️⃣ Roast, Don’t Boil the Sweet Potatoes 🔥
- Why? Roasting brings out the natural sweetness and prevents the filling from getting watery.
- Bake whole sweet potatoes at 400°F (200°C) for 45-50 minutes until soft, then mash.
2️⃣ Use Fresh Sweet Potatoes Instead of Canned 🥔
- Canned sweet potatoes can be mushy and overly sweet.
- Fresh sweet potatoes give a rich, natural flavor and better texture.
3️⃣ Don’t Overmix the Filling 🥄
- Overmixing creates a dense, gummy texture instead of a light, fluffy casserole.
- Mix just until combined for a creamy yet structured dish.
4️⃣ Toast the Pecans for Extra Crunch 🌰
- For maximum flavor, lightly toast pecans in a dry skillet for 3-5 minutes before adding them to the topping.
5️⃣ Balance the Sweetness 🍬
- If you prefer a less sweet casserole, reduce brown sugar in the filling to ¼ cup instead of ½ cup.
- You can also add a pinch of salt to enhance the flavors without making it too sugary.
6️⃣ Make It Ahead for Stress-Free Holidays 🎉
- Refrigerator: Assemble the casserole up to 24 hours in advance, cover it, and store it in the fridge. Add the topping just before baking.
- For the freezer: Store it unbaked for up to 3 months. Let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then bake as directed.
7️⃣ Avoid a Soggy Casserole 🚫
- Let the baked casserole rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.
- This gives the filling time to firm up, ensuring it doesn’t become too watery.
Serving Suggestions
This copycat Paula Deen sweet potato casserole is so versatile and can be served in a variety of ways. Whether you’re serving it as part of a holiday feast or a cozy family meal, here are some delicious ways to enjoy it:
1️⃣ Pair It With Holiday Favorites
- Roast Turkey or Ham: The creamy sweetness of the casserole pairs perfectly with savory dishes like roast turkey, baked ham, or fried chicken.
- Green Bean Almondine: For a balanced plate, add a light, savory vegetable like green beans or a fresh salad.
2️⃣ Perfect for Potlucks and Gatherings
- This casserole is a crowd-pleaser! Whether it’s for a Thanksgiving dinner or a family reunion, it’s sure to be a hit.
- Serve it alongside other Southern classics like mac and cheese, cornbread, or collard greens.
3️⃣ Make It a Meal
- Serve as a main dish for vegetarians or those looking for a comforting meatless option.
- Pair with crispy fried okra or roasted Brussels sprouts for a hearty meal.
4️⃣ Garnish It for Extra Flair
- Add a little chopped parsley or extra pecans on top for a beautiful, crunchy garnish.
- For a fun twist, drizzle a bit of honey or maple syrup on top right before serving for added sweetness.
Storage & Reheating
Whether you have leftovers or want to make it ahead of time, this sweet potato casserole stores and reheats beautifully. Here’s how to ensure it stays fresh and delicious!
How to Store Leftover Sweet Potato Casserole 🍽️
- In the Fridge:
- Let the casserole cool completely before storing.
- Wrap it tightly with plastic wrap or foil, or place it in an airtight container.
- Refrigerate for up to 4 days.
- In the Freezer:
- Make sure the casserole has cooled before freezing.
- Seal it securely with plastic wrap and foil to protect against freezer burn.
- Freeze for up to 3 months.
- Label with the date so you know when it was made!
How to Reheat Sweet Potato Casserole 🔥
- From the Fridge:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Take the casserole out of the fridge and allow it to rest at room temperature for 10-15 minutes.
- Cover with foil and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until fully warmed.
- For a crispy topping, remove the foil during the last 5 minutes of baking.
- From the Freezer:
- Thaw the casserole overnight in the fridge.
- Once thawed, follow the same reheating instructions as from the fridge.
- For frozen leftovers, it may take a bit longer—25-30 minutes—to heat through.
Tips for Reheating:
- Microwave: If you’re in a rush, microwave individual portions for 1-2 minutes until hot.
- Crisp It Up: If you like your topping extra crispy, broil the casserole for 2-3 minutes after reheating.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I make Paula Deen’s sweet potato casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole in advance:
Refrigerate: Assemble the casserole without the topping, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 2 days. Once you’re ready to bake, add the topping and follow the baking instructions.
Freeze: For longer storage, freeze the unbaked casserole (without the topping) for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then add the topping and bake.
Can I use canned sweet potatoes instead of fresh ones?
While fresh sweet potatoes offer the best flavor and texture, canned sweet potatoes can be used as a convenient alternative. Ensure they are well-drained to prevent excess moisture in the casserole.
How do I prevent the casserole from being too sweet?
To balance the sweetness:
Reduce Sugar: Decrease the amount of granulated sugar in the filling to suit your taste.
Add Citrus: Incorporate a splash of orange juice to add acidity and balance the flavors.
Can I make this casserole gluten-free?
Yes, to make the casserole gluten-free:
Topping: Use a gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour.
Filling: Ensure all ingredients, including spices and vanilla extract, are gluten-free.
How do I store and reheat leftovers?
To store and reheat leftovers:
Refrigerate: Place leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days.
Reheat: Cover and reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven until warmed through. For a crispy topping, uncover during the last 5 minutes of reheating.
Can I add marshmallows to the casserole?
Yes, for a classic touch:
Add Marshmallows: After baking the casserole, sprinkle mini marshmallows on top and broil for 1-2 minutes until golden brown.
Alternative: Mix marshmallows into the topping mixture before baking for a gooey texture.
How do I know when the casserole is done baking?
The casserole is done when:
The center is set and firm.
The topping is golden brown and crisp.
An inserted knife comes out clean.
Can I use yams instead of sweet potatoes?
Sweet potatoes are recommended for this recipe due to their sweetness and texture. Yams are starchier and less sweet, which may affect the casserole’s flavor.
How can I make the casserole spicier?
To add a spicy kick:
Add Jalapeños: Mix in finely chopped jalapeños for heat.
Use Spicy Pecans: Incorporate pecans seasoned with cayenne pepper into the topping.
Can I make this casserole vegan?
To make a vegan version:
Butter: Use vegan butter or coconut oil.
Eggs: Replace with flax eggs or a suitable egg substitute.
Milk: Use plant-based milk like almond or oat milk.
Conclusion
This copycat Paula Deen sweet potato casserole is the perfect blend of rich, creamy flavors and sweet, crunchy toppings—a dish that’s sure to be the star of any meal. Whether you’re making it for a special holiday dinner, a potluck, or just because, this casserole is as versatile as it is delicious. By following the simple steps and using the tips and variations shared in this guide, you can easily customize this recipe to fit your tastes and dietary needs.
With its comforting taste and crowd-pleasing appeal, this casserole will quickly become a favorite in your recipe collection. So go ahead—bring a little Southern hospitality to your table and enjoy every delicious bite!
Best Copycat Paula Deen Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe
Equipment
- 9×13-inch baking dish
- Large mixing bowl
- Potato Peeler
- Masher or Potato Ricer
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Knife
- Oven
Ingredients
- For the Sweet Potato Filling:
- 4 large sweet potatoes peeled and mashed
- 1/2 cup melted butter or coconut oil for dairy-free
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup white sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup milk use almond milk or oat milk for dairy-free
- Pinch of salt
- For the Topping:
- 1 cup chopped pecans toasted
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup flour use gluten-free flour for gluten-free option
- 1/4 cup melted butter or coconut oil for dairy-free
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray.
- Prepare the sweet potatoes: Roast the sweet potatoes at 400°F for 45-50 minutes, until tender. Let them cool, then peel and mash until smooth.
- Make the filling: In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed sweet potatoes, melted butter, sugars, cinnamon, nutmeg, vanilla extract, eggs, milk, and salt. Stir until smooth and well combined.
- Make the topping: In a separate bowl, combine the toasted pecans, brown sugar, flour, melted butter, and cinnamon. Stir until evenly mixed.
- Assemble: Spread the sweet potato mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the topping evenly over the sweet potatoes.
- Bake: Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 20 minutes, until the topping is golden brown and crisp.
- Cool and Serve: Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy!
Notes
- To make ahead, assemble the casserole and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Add the topping right before baking.
- For a gluten-free version, substitute the flour in the topping with a gluten-free flour blend.
- You can also add marshmallows to the topping for a more traditional twist. Simply add them after baking and broil for 1-2 minutes until golden brown.
- Freezing: Freeze the unbaked casserole for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed.
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Looking for more easy casserole ideas? Check out our Ultimate Guide to Easy and Delicious Casserole Recipes for Every Occasion!