Copycat Cracker Barrel Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecan Topping

Indulge in the comforting flavors of the South with this incredible copycat recipe for Cracker Barrel’s Sweet Potato Casserole. This dish isn’t just a side; it’s a culinary experience, offering a harmonious blend of sweet and savory notes, a luxuriously creamy texture, and an irresistible buttery pecan topping. Perfect for holiday gatherings, special occasions, or simply elevating your weeknight meal, this casserole promises to be a show-stopping addition to any table. Forget the store-bought versions; our homemade rendition captures the soulful essence of Cracker Barrel’s beloved classic, making it truly out-of-this-world delicious.

Why You’ll Love This Sweet Potato Casserole

This Cracker Barrel Copycat Sweet Potato Casserole is more than just a recipe; it’s a delightful culinary journey that offers numerous advantages, making it a favorite for home cooks and guests alike:

• Economical and Convenient: Most of the ingredients required for this casserole are common pantry staples. This means you won’t have to make an expensive or special trip to the grocery store, saving you both money and precious time, especially during busy holiday seasons.
• Visually Appealing: The vibrant orange hue of the sweet potatoes, contrasted with the golden-brown pecan topping, creates a visually stunning dish. It adds a festive and inviting splash of color to your dinner table, making any meal feel more special and celebratory.
• Perfectly Balanced Flavors: This casserole masterfully strikes a balance between sweet and savory. The natural sweetness of the potatoes is enhanced by brown sugar, while a hint of butter and orange zest prevents it from being overly sugary, creating a sophisticated flavor profile that complements a wide array of main courses.
• Easily Scalable for Any Gathering: Whether you’re hosting an intimate family dinner or a large festive feast, this recipe is incredibly versatile. It can be effortlessly doubled or even tripled to accommodate larger crowds, ensuring everyone gets to enjoy a generous serving of this delectable side.
• Nutrient-Rich Goodness: Beyond its incredible taste, sweet potatoes are packed with essential vitamins and minerals, including Vitamin A, Vitamin C, and fiber. This makes the casserole not only a treat for the taste buds but also a wholesome addition to your diet.

The Irresistible Appeal of Sweet Potato Casserole

Sweet potato casserole holds a special place in Southern cuisine and holiday traditions across America. Its enduring popularity stems from its unique ability to bridge the gap between a hearty side dish and a decadent dessert. The inherent sweetness of the sweet potato, combined with rich butter and brown sugar, creates a base that is both comforting and deeply satisfying. When topped with crunchy pecans, it adds an essential textural contrast that elevates the dish from simple mashed potatoes to an extraordinary culinary creation. This copycat version aims to replicate the exact magic found at Cracker Barrel, known for its homestyle cooking and nostalgic flavors, bringing that beloved restaurant experience right into your home kitchen.

Key Ingredients for Your Sweet Potato Casserole

Creating the perfect sweet potato casserole starts with selecting the right ingredients. Below is a comprehensive overview of what you’ll need, along with helpful notes to ensure the best possible outcome for your dish.

Ingredient Notes:

• Large Sweet Potatoes (approx. 5 to 5.5 pounds): The foundation of our casserole. Opt for sweet potatoes that are firm, free of blemishes, and roughly uniform in size. This consistency is crucial for even cooking, ensuring all pieces become fork-tender at the same time for a smooth mash.
• Unsalted Butter (melted, for sweet potato layer & pecan topping): Unsalted butter gives you complete control over the dish’s overall sodium content. If you only have salted butter on hand, you can certainly use it, but consider slightly reducing any added salt in the recipe (though this recipe doesn’t explicitly call for extra salt, it’s good practice for general cooking). Butter is key for richness and moisture.
• Pecan Pieces (4 oz): While pecan halves look beautiful, pieces are typically more cost-effective and perfectly suitable for the crunchy topping. They distribute more evenly and create a more consistent texture when mixed with the buttery brown sugar. Toasting them briefly enhances their nutty flavor.
• Milk (full-fat dairy milk, 4 Tablespoons for pecan topping): Full-fat dairy milk contributes to a richer, creamier pecan sauce. However, if you have dietary restrictions or prefer alternatives, any type of milk, including plant-based options like almond milk or oat milk, will work well.
• Brown Sugar (packed, for sweet potato layer & pecan topping): This recipe uses light brown sugar, which provides a molasses-rich sweetness and a slight caramel note. Dark brown sugar can be substituted, but be aware that it has a more intense molasses flavor, which will subtly alter the overall taste of your casserole. Ensure it’s packed firmly for accurate measurement.
• Orange Juice Concentrate (¼ cup): This is a secret ingredient that adds a delightful, concentrated citrus brightness that cuts through the richness of the sweet potatoes without making the dish taste overtly “orange-y.” If concentrate isn’t available, a splash of regular orange juice (freshly squeezed for best flavor) can be used as an alternative, though you might need to adjust the quantity to achieve the desired subtle flavor.
• Orange Zest (1 Tablespoon): Zest is where the essential oils of the orange reside, imparting a fragrant, fresh aroma and a bright flavor. When zesting, be sure to only grate the bright orange part of the peel, avoiding the bitter white pith underneath, to ensure a pure, clean citrus note.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Your Cracker Barrel Sweet Potato Casserole

Crafting this delicious casserole is a straightforward process. Follow these detailed steps to achieve a perfectly creamy sweet potato base and a crunchy, buttery pecan topping that will impress everyone.

1. Prepare the Sweet Potatoes: Begin by thoroughly washing and scrubbing your large sweet potatoes to remove any dirt. Peel them completely, then dice them into small, roughly equal-sized pieces. This uniform dicing is essential for ensuring that all pieces cook evenly.
2. Cook the Sweet Potatoes: Place the diced sweet potatoes into a large pot and cover them with water. Cook over medium heat until the potatoes are fork-tender. This usually takes about 15-20 minutes, depending on the size of your dice. You should be able to easily pierce them with a fork.
3. Mash and Combine: Once tender, drain the sweet potatoes very well, ensuring no excess water remains, as this can make your casserole watery. Transfer the drained potatoes to a large mixing bowl. Using an electric mixer on low speed, beat the potatoes until they are smooth and creamy. Gradually add the melted unsalted butter, brown sugar, orange juice concentrate, and orange zest to the bowl. Continue beating until all ingredients are thoroughly combined and the mixture is uniformly smooth.
4. Prepare the Baking Dish: While preparing the potatoes, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Generously grease a 3-quart casserole dish with butter or non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking. Set the prepared dish aside.
5. Assemble the Sweet Potato Layer: Pour the creamy sweet potato mixture into the greased casserole dish. Use a spatula to spread it evenly and level the top.
6. Prepare the Pecan Butter Topping: In a small saucepan, melt the ¼ cup of unsalted butter over medium heat. Add the pecan pieces and lightly roast them for about one minute, stirring constantly, until they become fragrant. Be careful not to burn them. Stir in the ½ cup of brown sugar and 4 tablespoons of milk, mixing all ingredients well until the sugar dissolves and the sauce slightly thickens.
7. Bake the Casserole: Evenly pour the warm pecan sauce over the sweet potato layer in the casserole dish. Transfer the dish to the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the topping is bubbly and golden brown, and the casserole is heated through.
8. Serve: Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your homemade Cracker Barrel-style Sweet Potato Casserole!

Expert Tips for Success

Achieving a truly exceptional sweet potato casserole, worthy of the Cracker Barrel name, is all about attention to detail. Here are some expert tips to ensure your dish is nothing short of perfect:

• Proper Sweet Potato Preparation: Always peel and thoroughly wash your sweet potatoes before dicing. Any lingering dirt can affect the flavor. Dicing them into similar-sized pieces is paramount for even cooking; inconsistent sizes will lead to some pieces being overcooked and mushy while others remain firm.
• Achieving Ultimate Creaminess: While a hand masher can work, an electric hand mixer is your best friend for achieving that perfectly smooth, lump-free, and creamy sweet potato base. This technique incorporates air, resulting in a lighter texture that’s more akin to the restaurant version. It also significantly cuts down on prep time.
• Preventing Sticking: Sweet potato casseroles, with their sugary content, are prone to sticking to the bottom of the dish. To avoid this, always generously spray your casserole dish with non-stick cooking spray or thoroughly grease it with butter before adding the sweet potato mixture.
• Don’t Overcook the Potatoes: Cook the sweet potatoes just until they are fork-tender. Overcooking them can lead to a watery mash, as they absorb too much water. After draining, let them sit in the colander for a few minutes to allow any residual steam and moisture to escape.
• Toasting Pecans for Flavor: Don’t skip the step of lightly roasting the pecan pieces in butter before making the topping. This brief toasting period brings out their inherent nutty flavor, adding an extra layer of depth and aroma to the crunchy topping.
• Zest Wisely: When zesting the orange, use a microplane and only grate the bright orange outer layer. The white pith underneath is bitter and can impart an unpleasant taste to your casserole. The zest adds a bright, fresh counterpoint to the sweetness.
• Monitor Baking: Keep an eye on the casserole during the last few minutes of baking, especially if you added marshmallows or your oven runs hot. The topping can brown quickly. If it’s getting too dark, you can loosely tent it with aluminum foil.

Storage Guidelines

Leftover sweet potato casserole is a treat that can be enjoyed for days. To ensure its freshness and flavor, store any remaining casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Make sure the casserole has cooled completely before transferring it to the container to prevent condensation.

Make-Ahead Convenience

One of the best features of this Cracker Barrel copycat sweet potato casserole is its make-ahead potential, making it a perfect dish for busy holidays or entertaining. You can assemble the entire casserole, including both the sweet potato layer and the pecan topping, up to 24 hours in advance. Once assembled, cover the casserole dish tightly with plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to serve, simply remove it from the fridge and bake it according to the instructions, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time if needed to ensure it’s heated through.

Serving Suggestions

This rich and flavorful sweet potato casserole is incredibly versatile and pairs wonderfully with a variety of main courses, especially during the holidays. Its balance of sweet and savory notes makes it an ideal accompaniment:

• For a classic holiday spread, serve it alongside roasted meats such as these Air Fryer Turkey Breasts, a succulent glazed ham, or a slow-cooked pot roast.
• It’s a fantastic partner to other traditional side dishes, complementing items like this comforting Green Bean Casserole with Cream of Chicken Soup, fluffy mashed potatoes, or crisp roasted Brussels sprouts.
• Beyond holidays, this casserole can also elevate a simple weeknight meal with grilled chicken or pork chops.
• Don’t be afraid to serve it as a lighter dessert or brunch item, perhaps with a dollop of whipped cream for extra indulgence.

Flavorful Variations

While this copycat recipe captures the authentic Cracker Barrel flavor, there’s always room for personalization. Here are a few variations to adapt the casserole to your taste or dietary needs:

• Nut-Free Version: For those with nut allergies or preferences, simply omit the pecan topping entirely. The creamy sweet potato base is delicious on its own.
• Marshmallow Topping: For a classic holiday twist, add a layer of mini marshmallows over the sweet potato mixture during the last 5-10 minutes of baking. Broil briefly until the marshmallows are golden brown and gooey (watch carefully to prevent burning!).
• Spice It Up: Enhance the warm flavors by adding a pinch of cinnamon, nutmeg, or a dash of pumpkin pie spice to the sweet potato mixture along with the other ingredients.
• Boozy Kick: A tablespoon of bourbon or rum added to the pecan topping can introduce a sophisticated depth of flavor.
• Citrus Adjustment: If you’re not a fan of orange, you can certainly leave out both the orange zest and orange juice concentrate. The casserole will still be a delicious, rich sweet potato dish with a nutty topping, but without the subtle bright citrus notes.
• Maple Pecan Topping: Replace half of the brown sugar in the pecan topping with pure maple syrup for a different kind of sweet, woody flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Related Recipes You’ll Love

• These Whipped Sweet Potatoes are a delicious side dish for any occasion. Serve this rich and flavorful side dish alongside grilled meats or roasted veggies to round out your meal perfectly!
• Stove Top Candied Sweet Potatoes are a classic dish that is easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser. The combination of sweet potatoes, butter, and brown sugar creates an irresistible flavor and creamy texture that will have everyone asking for seconds!
• Sweet Potato Crunch Casserole is a perfect combination of sweet and savory flavors that your family will love. The crunchy topping adds just the right touch of texture on top of these sweet and creamy potatoes.
• For a delicious homemade version that rivals the original, try this Cracker Barrel Chicken Tenders recipe, a healthy grilled chicken recipe your family will love.

More Delicious Side Dishes

• Gouda Mac and Cheese is a delicious extra creamy twist to the classic mac and cheese recipe. A velvety comfort food recipe with a distinct smoky flavor that is sure to satisfy.
• Cheesy Mashed Potatoes recipe is the ultimate comfort side dish for your family meals specially during the holidays. A gooey side dish with velvety texture and smooth rich flavor.
• This Instant Pot Garlic Mashed Potatoes recipe is the quickest and easiest way to get mashed potatoes on the table. Less than 30 minutes, no drain and no peel recipe, it can’t get any easier than that!
• Crockpot Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese is the right answer when spicy comfort food craving hits.

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Essential Equipment

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• Large pot or Dutch oven
• Large mixing bowl
• 3-quart casserole dish
• Hand mixer

Cracker Barrel Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe

This sweet potato casserole is guaranteed to be the star of your holiday spread. Simple to prepare, delightfully sweet, and dangerously tasty, featuring fresh and rich buttery flavors with a satisfying pecan crunch.

Rating: 4.60 from 5 votes

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Course: Side Dish

Cuisine: American

Diet: Halal

Prep Time: 30 minutes

Cook Time: 30 minutes

Servings: 10 Servings

Calories: 302 kcal

Author: Amira

Ingredients

For the sweet potato layer:

• 5 large sweet potatoes (about 5 to 5.5 pounds)
• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
• ½ cup brown sugar, packed
• ¼ cup orange juice concentrate
• 1 Tablespoon orange zest

For the pecan butter layer:

• ¼ cup unsalted butter
• 4 oz pecan pieces
• 4 Tablespoons milk
• ½ cup brown sugar

Instructions

1. Wash and scrub clean the sweet potatoes then peel and dice into small equal size pieces.
2. Place into a large pot of water and cook on medium heat until fork tender.
3. Drain very well and place in a bowl. Beat with an electric mixer on low until creamy.
4. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease a 3-quart casserole dish with butter and set aside.
5. Add the rest of the sweet potato layer ingredients (melted butter, brown sugar, orange juice concentrate, orange zest) to the bowl with the mashed potatoes and combine everything well.
6. Pour the sweet potato mixture into the prepared casserole dish and level the top evenly.
7. In a saucepan over medium heat, melt ¼ cup of unsalted butter. Add the pecan pieces and roast for about a minute, stirring occasionally. Then, add ½ cup brown sugar and 4 tablespoons milk, mixing well until the sugar dissolves and the sauce is smooth.
8. Pour the warm pecan sauce evenly over the sweet potato mixture in the casserole dish. Bake for 25-30 minutes until the topping is bubbly and hot, and the casserole is heated through.

Notes

• Please check the nutrition disclaimer policy.

Nutrition

Calories: 302kcal |
Carbohydrates: 26g |
Protein: 2g |
Fat: 22g |
Saturated Fat: 10g |
Polyunsaturated Fat: 3g |
Monounsaturated Fat: 8g |
Trans Fat: 1g |
Cholesterol: 38mg |
Sodium: 11mg |
Potassium: 136mg |
Fiber: 1g |
Sugar: 25g |
Vitamin A: 477IU |
Vitamin C: 11mg |
Calcium: 42mg |
Iron: 0.5mg

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Please check the nutrition disclaimer policy.