Spray an 8×8 inch baking dish (or a 9-inch pie pan or 1 Recipe

If you’re looking for a delicious twist on a classic holiday staple, this healthy sweet potato casserole with pecan oat streusel is the answer! It’s a dish that feels indulgent thanks to the rich sweet potatoes and crunchy topping, but it’s incredibly wholesome and easy to prep. Each bite balances natural maple sweetness with warming spices, while a golden streusel delivers the perfect finish. Best of all, when you spray an 8×8 inch baking dish (or a 9-inch pie pan or 1.5-2 quart dish) and assemble this casserole, you’ll be surprised by how effortless and joyful the process can be. Whether for a festive gathering or a cozy weeknight dinner, this dish truly elevates your table with comfort and heart.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe proves you don’t need a long shopping list to create something remarkable—just a handful of familiar ingredients, each pulling their weight in flavor, texture, and appearance. Every component either adds velvety richness, gentle sweetness, fragrant spice, or a satisfying crunch.

• Sweet potatoes: The essential base; their natural vitamin-rich sweetness is the star of the show.
• Pure maple syrup: Brings a nuanced, deep sugar flavor that’s less harsh than refined sugar.
• Unsweetened almond milk (or milk of choice): Lightens and silkens the mash without overpowering.
• Vanilla extract: Adds warmth and aromatic depth to the casserole filling.
• Egg (optional): Binds everything for a slightly richer texture, or leave out for vegan version.
• Cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice: This classic trio infuses every bite with sweet holiday spice.
• Salt: A dash is all you need to heighten the other flavors.
• Whole wheat pastry flour (or substitutes): Helps form the golden, crumbly topping.
• Rolled oats: Create hearty texture and rustic appeal for the streusel.
• Packed brown sugar (or coconut sugar): Infuses the topping with rich, molasses-like notes.
• Pecans: Toasted bits bring irresistible crunch and nutty complexity.
• Melted butter (or vegan alternative): Binds the streusel while lending decadence; choose vegan butter or coconut oil if preferred.

How to Make Spray an 8×8 inch baking dish (or a 9-inch pie pan or 1

Step 1: Roast the Sweet Potatoes

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F. Wash your sweet potatoes thoroughly, then give each one several pokes with a fork to allow steam to escape during roasting. Place them on a foil-lined baking sheet, and slide them into the hot oven for 45 to 60 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when they’re completely tender and yield to gentle pressure when squeezed with an oven mitt. Let them rest and cool until you can handle them, which will make the peeling a breeze.

Step 2: Prepare Your Baking Dish — Spray an 8×8 inch baking dish (or a 9-inch pie pan or 1.5-2 quart dish)

Now, don’t skip this next step: spray an 8×8 inch baking dish (or a 9-inch pie pan or 1) thoroughly with nonstick spray. This not only helps the casserole lift out easily for serving, but also ensures easy cleanup. Set the dish aside for assembly later.

Step 3: Mash the Potatoes

Slip the skins off your cooled sweet potatoes and place the vibrant orange flesh into a large mixing bowl. Add in your maple syrup, almond milk, vanilla, egg (if you want that extra creaminess), cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice, and a pinch of salt. Use an electric mixer or sturdy whisk to beat everything until delightfully smooth, adding an extra splash of almond milk if needed. The blend should look fluffy, creamy, and lightly spiced—the aroma is simply wonderful!

Step 4: Prepare the Oat-Pecan Streusel

In a smaller bowl, combine the whole wheat pastry flour, rolled oats, brown sugar, and those lovely chopped pecans. Pour in your melted butter (or vegan substitute), then toss it all together with a fork until it clumps into a rustic, crumbly topping. These nubbly bits will toast beautifully in the oven, giving every bite that addictive sweet crunch.

Step 5: Assemble and Bake

Pour your creamy sweet potato mixture into your prepared dish—remember to spray an 8×8 inch baking dish (or a 9-inch pie pan or 1 for perfect results. Spread it evenly, then shower it with your oat-pecan streusel topping. Pop the dish in the oven at 350°F for 25 to 30 minutes, until the topping is toasty, golden, and fragrant. Let it cool for a few minutes before spooning onto plates. The hardest part is waiting to dig in!

How to Serve Spray an 8×8 inch baking dish (or a 9-inch pie pan or 1

Garnishes

A casserole this beautiful deserves an equally lovely garnish! For a little extra wow, sprinkle some extra chopped pecans or a flurry of toasted coconut on top just before serving. A few fresh thyme leaves or orange zest can also bring a pop of color and a note of sophistication.

Side Dishes

This sweet potato casserole pairs incredibly well with all sorts of mains and sides. Think roasted turkey or chicken, green beans, sautéed greens, or a vibrant winter salad. If you spray an 8×8 inch baking dish (or a 9-inch pie pan or 1 and serve this as part of a holiday feast, it stands out just enough while complementing savory flavors.

Creative Ways to Present

To impress your guests (or just delight yourself!), try baking mini portions in individual ramekins or muffin tins—of course, spray an 8×8 inch baking dish (or a 9-inch pie pan or 1 or whatever small vessel you use. Layer spoonfuls in clear glasses for an elegant trifle-inspired take, or top with a frozen yogurt scoop for an unexpected twist.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftovers, tuck them in an airtight container and store in the fridge for up to four days. The topping may soften a bit, but the flavors meld beautifully with a little time. Always let your casserole cool, then wrap up and pop in the fridge for later indulgence.

Freezing

You can absolutely make this casserole ahead of time and freeze it! After you spray an 8×8 inch baking dish (or a 9-inch pie pan or 1 and assemble the casserole (before baking), wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil. Store in the freezer for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes to bake time if needed.

Reheating

To reheat, simply warm in a 350°F oven for 15–20 minutes, covering loosely with foil to prevent over-browning. Individual portions can be reheated in the microwave for a speedy treat. Either method brings that fresh-from-the-oven comfort right back!

FAQs

Can I make this casserole fully vegan?

Absolutely! Omit the egg and use plant-based butter or coconut oil for the topping—none of the flavor, creaminess, or crunch will be missed.

What’s the best way to mash sweet potatoes for this casserole?

For extra-smooth filling, an electric hand mixer is your friend. For a chunkier, rustic vibe, a potato masher does the job nicely. Either way, make sure your roasted sweet potatoes are fully tender before mashing.

Can I use different nuts or omit them entirely?

Definitely. Feel free to swap in walnuts or hazelnuts for an equally tasty crunch, or skip the nuts altogether if you have an allergy. The casserole is flexible and still delicious without them.

Can I double the recipe for a crowd?

Yes! Simply double the ingredients and spray an 8×8 inch baking dish (or a 9-inch pie pan or 1 large enough to fit (like a 13×9 pan). Bake times will be similar, just keep an eye on the topping for doneness.

Is this sweet potato casserole very sweet?

Not at all overly sweet—maple syrup and a touch of brown sugar give gentle sweetness, while the spices and pecan oat topping lend complexity rather than sugar overload.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re hosting a gathering or treating yourself to some cozy comfort, you’ll love how this casserole combines pure convenience with big, nutritious flavor. Don’t hesitate to spray an 8×8 inch baking dish (or a 9-inch pie pan or 1 and bring a bit of heart and warmth to your next meal—happy baking!

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