This Aunt Peggy’s Sweet Potato Soufflé Recipe is a rich and comforting Southern side dish made with mashed sweet potatoes, butter, brown sugar, eggs, vanilla, and a buttery pecan streusel topping.
It’s easy to prepare, perfectly sweet, fluffy, and ideal for Thanksgiving, Christmas, Sunday dinners, or any family gathering.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed | 4 pounds |
| Unsalted butter, melted | ½ cup |
| Brown sugar | 1 cup |
| Large eggs | 2 |
| Whole milk | ½ cup |
| Vanilla extract | 1 teaspoon |
| Ground cinnamon | 1 teaspoon |
| Salt | ½ teaspoon |
Pecan Topping
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Brown sugar | ½ cup |
| All-purpose flour | ⅓ cup |
| Chopped pecans | 1 cup |
| Unsalted butter, melted | ⅓ cup |
Equipment
- Large pot
- Potato masher or hand mixer
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring cups and spoons
- 9×13-inch baking dish
- Rubber spatula
- Oven
How to Make Aunt Peggy’s Sweet Potato Soufflé Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Sweet Potatoes
Place the peeled sweet potatoes in a large pot of water and boil for 20 to 25 minutes, or until fork-tender. Drain well.
Step 2: Prepare the Sweet Potato Mixture
Mash the sweet potatoes until smooth. Add the melted butter, brown sugar, eggs, milk, vanilla, cinnamon, and salt. Mix until creamy and well combined.
Step 3: Make the Pecan Topping
In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar, flour, chopped pecans, and melted butter. Stir until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
Step 4: Assemble the Soufflé
Spread the sweet potato mixture evenly into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle the pecan topping evenly over the surface.
Step 5: Bake and Serve
Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 35 to 40 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the filling is hot and set. Let it cool for 10 minutes before serving.
What is Aunt Peggy’s Sweet Potato Soufflé Recipe?
Aunt Peggy’s Sweet Potato Soufflé is a classic Southern casserole featuring creamy mashed sweet potatoes topped with a buttery brown sugar and pecan crumble.
It’s often served during holiday meals but is equally delicious alongside everyday family dinners.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
You’ll love this recipe because it’s creamy, buttery, and topped with a crunchy pecan streusel that adds incredible texture.
The comforting flavors make it a family favorite year after year.
Pro Tips for Best Result
- Use fresh sweet potatoes instead of canned.
- Mash the potatoes until smooth.
- Don’t overmix after adding the eggs.
- Toast the pecans for extra flavor.
- Let the casserole rest before serving.
Ingredient Substitutions
Maple syrup can replace part of the brown sugar for a richer flavor.
Walnuts can be substituted for pecans, and half-and-half works well in place of whole milk.
Easy Variations You Can Try
Add mini marshmallows over the pecan topping during the last 10 minutes of baking.
A pinch of nutmeg or pumpkin pie spice also adds extra warmth and holiday flavor.
If you enjoy classic holiday side dishes, don’t miss my Juicy Crab Sauce Recipe, another comforting Southern favorite.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid overcooking the sweet potatoes because they can become watery.
Don’t skip draining them well before mashing, and avoid burning the pecan topping by overbaking.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Aunt Peggy’s Sweet Potato Soufflé Recipe alongside roast turkey, baked ham, fried chicken, pork chops, or grilled chicken.
It also pairs beautifully with green beans, cornbread dressing, and cranberry sauce.
Storage Tips
- Refrigerate leftovers for up to 4 days.
- Store in an airtight container.
- Reheat in the oven for the best texture.
- Freeze for up to 2 months.
- Thaw overnight before reheating.
Nutrition Facts
| Nutrient | Amount (Per Serving) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 385 kcal |
| Protein | 5 g |
| Carbohydrates | 47 g |
| Fat | 21 g |
| Saturated Fat | 9 g |
| Fiber | 5 g |
| Sugar | 28 g |
| Sodium | 180 mg |
Health Benefits
Sweet potatoes are naturally rich in vitamin A, fiber, and antioxidants that support overall health.
Pecans provide healthy fats and minerals while adding delicious crunch.
What Does It Taste Like?
This Aunt Peggy’s Sweet Potato Soufflé Recipe tastes rich, buttery, sweet, and warmly spiced.
The creamy sweet potato filling contrasts beautifully with the crisp pecan topping.
Personal Experience
I enjoy making this soufflé every holiday season because it’s always one of the first dishes to disappear.
The combination of creamy sweet potatoes and crunchy pecans reminds me of classic Southern family dinners.
Can You Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole a day ahead.
Cover and refrigerate it before baking, then add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Can You Make It Without Nuts?
Absolutely. Simply omit the pecans and prepare the topping with brown sugar, flour, and butter only.
You can also top it with mini marshmallows instead.
Best Sweet Potatoes to Use
Fresh orange-fleshed sweet potatoes provide the sweetest flavor and creamiest texture.
Avoid canned sweet potatoes if possible for the best homemade results.
How to Keep the Soufflé Fluffy
Mash the sweet potatoes until smooth and avoid overmixing after adding the eggs.
This helps keep the filling light and tender.
Can I Make a Large Batch?
Yes, this Aunt Peggy’s Sweet Potato Soufflé Recipe doubles easily for holiday dinners and large family gatherings.
Simply bake it in two casserole dishes for even cooking.
Is This Recipe Perfect for Thanksgiving?
Absolutely. This Aunt Peggy’s Sweet Potato Soufflé Recipe is a classic holiday side dish that’s perfect for Thanksgiving, Christmas, Easter, and Sunday family dinners.
Its creamy filling and buttery pecan topping make it a timeless favorite.
Conclusion
This Aunt Peggy’s Sweet Potato Soufflé Recipe combines creamy sweet potatoes with a buttery pecan topping for the ultimate Southern comfort dish.
Whether you’re serving it for the holidays or a family dinner, it’s sure to become a treasured recipe everyone requests.
If you tried this recipe, please rate it, share it with friends, and leave a comment below about how it turned out!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I double the recipe?
Yes. This recipe doubles perfectly for holiday gatherings.
How long do leftovers last?
Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Can I use canned sweet potatoes?
Yes, but fresh sweet potatoes provide the best flavor and texture.
Can I freeze the casserole?
Yes. Freeze it before or after baking for up to 2 months.
Can I make Aunt Peggy’s Sweet Potato Soufflé ahead of time?
Yes. Assemble it a day ahead and bake just before serving.
Aunt Peggy’s Sweet Potato Soufflé Recipe
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Place the peeled sweet potatoes in a large pot of water and boil for 20 to 25 minutes, or until fork-tender. Drain well.
- Mash the sweet potatoes until smooth. Add the melted butter, brown sugar, eggs, milk, vanilla, cinnamon, and salt. Mix until creamy and well combined.
- In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar, flour, chopped pecans, and melted butter. Stir until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Spread the sweet potato mixture evenly into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle the pecan topping evenly over the surface.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 35 to 40 minutes, or u
