There are some dishes that just belong on the table — and sweet potato casserole is one of them. It’s rich, cozy, and full of those nostalgic fall flavors that instantly feel like home. Around here in Columbia, SC, this is one of those recipes that shows up at every Thanksgiving, Friendsgiving, and family gathering — and for good reason.

This version, topped with buttery brown sugar pecans (and a little marshmallow magic, if that’s your thing), is the one you’ll come back to year after year.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Aside from the fact that it’s absolutely delicious, it’s the perfect blend of Southern comfort and easy prep. You don’t have to be a chef to pull it off — the sweet potato base comes out creamy and smooth every time, while the pecan topping adds just the right amount of crunch and sweetness. And bonus: it makes your house smell amazing while it bakes. Let’s be honest — that’s the ultimate home-staging scent.

What You’ll Need

For the sweet potatoes, you’ll need 4 cups of mashed sweet potatoes (about 4 large), ½ cup granulated sugar, 2 beaten eggs, ½ cup milk, ½ cup melted butter, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, and ½ teaspoon salt.

For the topping, you’ll use 1 cup brown sugar, ⅓ cup all-purpose flour, ⅓ cup melted butter, and 1 cup chopped pecans. If you love a marshmallow version, sprinkle mini marshmallows on top during the last 10 minutes of baking for that golden, gooey finish everyone talks about.

How to Make It

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large bowl, mix the sweet potatoes, sugar, eggs, milk, melted butter, vanilla, and salt until smooth. Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.

In a separate bowl, combine the brown sugar, flour, melted butter, and pecans until crumbly, then sprinkle evenly over the sweet potato base. Bake uncovered for 35 to 40 minutes until golden and slightly crisp on top. Cool slightly before serving — it’s best warm.

Taley’s Tip

If you want to give it that “wow” factor, line the top with pecans in neat rows before baking. It’ll look beautiful on your table and photograph like a dream. And if you’re bringing it to a gathering, make it ahead of time and reheat at 300°F for about 15 minutes before serving — it holds up perfectly.

Why We Love Sharing Recipes Like This

At the Taley Hunt Home Group, we believe home isn’t just about walls and windows — it’s about the moments that happen inside them. Recipes like this remind us why we love what we do: helping families find a place where memories (and meals) are made.

So whether you’re making this for Thanksgiving or a cozy Sunday dinner, we hope it brings a little warmth, sweetness, and that signature Southern touch to your table.