🧡 Sweet Potato Casserole with Marshmallows
Sweet potato casserole with marshmallows is a beloved classic, especially during holiday seasons like Thanksgiving and Christmas. This dish combines the natural sweetness of mashed sweet potatoes with a buttery, creamy texture, and tops it with gooey, golden-brown marshmallows for an irresistible finish. It’s more than just a side dish—it’s a warm, nostalgic flavor experience that brings generations together at the dinner table.
Not only is it simple to prepare, but it’s also a versatile dish that can be customized to suit different tastes, from adding crunchy pecan toppings to introducing warming spices like cinnamon or nutmeg. Whether you’re making it from scratch or putting a creative spin on tradition, this casserole never fails to impress.
🍽️ Recipe Preparation Equipment
To make this casserole, you’ll need the following tools:
- Large pot for boiling sweet potatoes
- Potato masher or hand mixer
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Baking dish (9×13 inch recommended)
- Rubber spatula or spoon
- Oven
🛒 Ingredients
Here’s everything you need to make this creamy and dreamy sweet potato casserole with marshmallows:
- 4 large sweet potatoes (about 3 pounds), peeled and cubed
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar (or brown sugar for a deeper flavor)
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup milk (whole milk or evaporated milk works best)
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (optional)
- 2–3 cups mini marshmallows (or large ones cut in half)
👩🍳 How to Make Easy Sweet Potato Casserole with Marshmallows
Step 1: Boil the Sweet Potatoes
Peel and cube the sweet potatoes. Place them in a large pot and cover with water. Bring to a boil over high heat and cook until fork-tender, about 15–20 minutes. Drain and transfer to a large mixing bowl.
Step 2: Mash the Potatoes
Mash the sweet potatoes using a potato masher or hand mixer until smooth. You can leave a few small chunks if you like some texture.
Step 3: Add the Ingredients
Add sugar, melted butter, eggs, milk, vanilla, salt, and optional spices (cinnamon and nutmeg). Mix thoroughly until everything is well combined and creamy.
Step 4: Transfer to Baking Dish
Pour the sweet potato mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish and spread it out evenly with a spatula.
Step 5: Top with Marshmallows
Sprinkle marshmallows evenly over the top of the sweet potato mixture. If you’re using large marshmallows, cut them in half for even coverage.
Step 6: Bake
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the casserole for about 20–25 minutes or until the marshmallows are golden brown and slightly crispy on top.
🔄 Variations
- With Pecan Streusel: Mix 1/2 cup chopped pecans, 1/4 cup brown sugar, 1/4 cup flour, and 2 tablespoons melted butter and sprinkle over the potatoes before adding marshmallows.
- Healthier Version: Reduce the sugar or substitute with maple syrup or honey; use light butter or coconut milk.
- Vegan Option: Use almond or coconut milk, flax eggs (1 tbsp flaxseed meal + 3 tbsp water = 1 egg), vegan butter, and vegan marshmallows.
- Savory Twist: Skip the marshmallows and add a mix of caramelized onions, goat cheese, and rosemary for a unique, savory take.
🍳 Cooking Note
- Don’t overboil the sweet potatoes; they should be tender but not water-logged.
- Let the mixture cool slightly before adding eggs to prevent scrambling.
- Keep an eye on the marshmallows toward the end of baking—once they’re golden, the casserole is done.
🍴 Serving Suggestions
- Serve warm straight from the oven as a comforting holiday side.
- It pairs beautifully with turkey, roast chicken, glazed ham, or grilled vegetables.
- Add a scoop of whipped cream or a sprinkle of toasted coconut for a dessert-like experience.
💡 Helpful Tips
- For extra flavor depth, roast the sweet potatoes instead of boiling them.
- Add a splash of orange juice or zest for a citrusy brightness.
- Want it fluffier? Beat the mashed mixture longer and add a little more milk.
- Use freshly grated nutmeg for stronger flavor.
⭐ Tips for the Best Sweet Potato Casserole with Marshmallows
- Choose good sweet potatoes – The orange-fleshed variety (like Garnet or Jewel) are sweet, creamy, and perfect for this dish.
- Balance sweetness – If you’re using marshmallows, don’t overdo the sugar in the base. Taste the mixture before baking.
- Make ahead – You can prepare the sweet potato base a day in advance and refrigerate. Just top with marshmallows before baking.
- Toast marshmallows carefully – Use the broiler for 1–2 minutes at the end if you like a crispy top, but watch closely to avoid burning.
⏱️ Prep Time:
25 minutes
⏱️ Cooking Time:
25 minutes
⏱️ Total Time:
50 minutes
🥗 Nutritional Information (per serving, approx.)
- Calories: 260
- Protein: 3g
- Sodium: 120mg
- Fat: 9g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Sugar: 22g
- Fiber: 4g
(Note: Values will vary depending on brands and exact quantities used.)
❓ FAQs
Q: Can I make sweet potato casserole ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare the sweet potato mixture, place it in the dish, cover, and refrigerate for up to 2 days. Add marshmallows and bake just before serving.
Q: Can I freeze it?
Yes, but freeze without the marshmallow topping. Add fresh marshmallows after thawing and before baking.
Q: What’s the best sweet potato variety to use?
Orange-fleshed sweet potatoes like Jewel or Garnet offer the best texture and sweetness.
Q: Can I use canned sweet potatoes?
You can, but drain them well and reduce added sugar, as canned versions are often sweetened.
Q: Can I add nuts?
Absolutely! Pecans are a popular addition for crunch and flavor.
✅ Conclusion
Sweet potato casserole with marshmallows is a dish that transcends generations. Its velvety texture, comforting sweetness, and nostalgic marshmallow topping make it a cherished favorite. Whether you’re preparing it for a festive feast or a cozy family dinner, it brings warmth and joy to every plate. Don’t hesitate to make it your own with exciting variations or keep it classic for that true holiday vibe.
Now that you know how easy and delicious it is to make this dish, it’s time to add it to your go-to recipes list. Bake it once, and it will become a beloved tradition at your table
