Sweet Potato Casserole with Marshmallows
If you’re searching for a dish that perfectly blends comfort, tradition, and a touch of sweet indulgence, look no further than Sweet Potato Casserole with Marshmallows. This classic holiday favorite combines the rich, creamy texture of mashed sweet potatoes with the irresistible gooeyness of toasted marshmallows on top, creating a dish that’s both nostalgic and delightfully satisfying. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe promises a burst of flavors and textures that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Perfect Balance of Flavors: The natural sweetness of the sweet potatoes pairs beautifully with the sugary marshmallow topping, creating a harmonious blend that delights the palate.
- Comfort Food Classic: Sweet Potato Casserole with Marshmallows is a time-honored dish that evokes memories of family gatherings and festive celebrations.
- Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this casserole is approachable for cooks of all levels.
- Customizable: The recipe invites variations, so you can tailor it to suit your taste or dietary needs.
- Eye-Catching Presentation: The golden toasted marshmallow crust makes it as appealing visually as it is delicious.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Sweet Potato Casserole with Marshmallows recipe relies on a handful of essential ingredients, each contributing to the dish’s creamy texture, sweet depth, and beautiful color. It’s simplicity at its best, ensuring every bite is pure comfort.
- Sweet potatoes: The foundation of the dish, providing natural sweetness and a creamy base when mashed.
- Brown sugar: Adds a warm, caramel-like sweetness that enhances the sweet potatoes.
- Butter: Brings richness and smoothness to the mash.
- Milk or cream: Lightens the texture, making it perfectly creamy.
- Vanilla extract: Elevates the flavor with a subtle sweet aroma.
- Cinnamon and nutmeg: Add a cozy, festive spice that complements the sweet potatoes.
- Mini marshmallows: The crowning glory, melting into a gooey, toasted topping.
Variations for Sweet Potato Casserole with Marshmallows
One of the best things about this Sweet Potato Casserole with Marshmallows is how adaptable it is. Feel free to experiment with these creative variations to fit your taste or dietary preferences.
- Nutty twist: Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts on top for added crunch and nuttiness.
- Vegan swap: Use plant-based butter, almond milk, and vegan marshmallows to make it dairy-free and vegan-friendly.
- Spice boost: Add a pinch of ground ginger or allspice to deepen the warm spice profile.
- Maple syrup sweetening: Replace brown sugar with maple syrup for a more natural sweetness and a hint of maple flavor.
- Savory touch: Blend in a bit of cream cheese or sour cream for tanginess and extra creaminess.
How to Make Sweet Potato Casserole with Marshmallows
Step 1: Prepare and cook the sweet potatoes
Start by peeling and chopping fresh sweet potatoes into even chunks. Boil or steam them until tender, about 15 to 20 minutes, allowing for easy mashing.
Step 2: Mash the sweet potatoes
Drain the cooked sweet potatoes and mash them thoroughly. Add butter, brown sugar, milk, vanilla, cinnamon, and nutmeg, mixing until smooth and creamy.
Step 3: Transfer to casserole dish
Spoon the mashed sweet potato mixture into a greased baking dish and smooth out the top evenly with a spatula.
Step 4: Top with marshmallows
Generously sprinkle mini marshmallows over the surface, creating a thick layer that will toast into a golden brown crust.
Step 5: Bake until golden and bubbly
Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 25 minutes, or until the marshmallows have puffed up and turned a beautiful golden color.
Pro Tips for Making Sweet Potato Casserole with Marshmallows
- Use fresh sweet potatoes: Fresh is best for flavor and texture, but canned can work in a pinch—just drain well.
- Don’t skip the spices: Cinnamon and nutmeg add a cozy warmth that brings the dish to life.
- Toast the marshmallows gradually: Keep an eye on them while baking to prevent burning.
- Let the casserole rest: Allow it to cool slightly before serving to let the flavors meld.
- Add texture with nuts: A sprinkle of chopped nuts adds a delightful crunch contrast to the creamy mash.
How to Serve Sweet Potato Casserole with Marshmallows
Garnishes
For an inviting presentation, consider garnishing with a few extra toasted marshmallows or a sprinkle of cinnamon and chopped pecans to add visual appeal and texture.
Side Dishes
Sweet Potato Casserole with Marshmallows pairs beautifully with roasted turkey, glazed ham, or your favorite holiday main dishes. Fresh green beans or crisp salads provide a refreshing balance.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the casserole in individual ramekins for personal portions or layer it in a clear baking dish to showcase the vibrant orange mash topped with toasted marshmallows. It also makes a charming addition to holiday potlucks.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Cover leftover casserole tightly and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to keep the marshmallow topping soft and warm.
Freezing
Sweet Potato Casserole with Marshmallows freezes well when baked or unbaked—wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and foil for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in the oven at 325°F (165°C) until warmed through to maintain the creamy texture and toasted marshmallow topping without becoming soggy.
FAQs
Can I make Sweet Potato Casserole with Marshmallows ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the entire casserole up to a day before baking, then simply cover and refrigerate until ready to bake.
What can I use instead of marshmallows?
If marshmallows aren’t your thing, consider a crunchy pecan streusel topping or a lightly sweetened whipped topping for a unique twist.
Is Sweet Potato Casserole with Marshmallows gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free as it doesn’t include any wheat-based ingredients—just double-check marshmallows if you’re highly sensitive.
Can I make it dairy-free?
Yes! Use plant-based butter and non-dairy milk alternatives along with vegan marshmallows to create a delicious dairy-free version.
How do I store leftovers without the marshmallows getting stale?
To keep the marshmallows fresh, store leftovers separately or cover the dish tightly and re-toast the marshmallows under the broiler before serving.
Final Thoughts
Sweet Potato Casserole with Marshmallows is more than just a side dish; it’s a celebration of flavors that brings warmth and joy to any meal. Its creamy, sweet base combined with luscious, toasted marshmallows makes it a standout favorite in holiday feasts and comfort food menus alike. Give this recipe a try—you might just find yourself making it year-round!
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PrintSweet Potato Casserole with Marshmallows
Sweet Potato Casserole with Marshmallows is a comforting and classic holiday dish that combines creamy mashed sweet potatoes with a golden, gooey toasted marshmallow topping. This easy-to-make casserole balances natural sweetness and warm spices, making it a nostalgic and satisfying side dish perfect for festive meals or year-round enjoyment.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6-8 servings 1x
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
Base Ingredients
- 4 cups sweet potatoes, peeled and chopped
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup butter
- 1/4 cup milk or cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
Topping
- 2 cups mini marshmallows
Instructions
- Prepare and cook the sweet potatoes: Peel and chop fresh sweet potatoes into even chunks. Boil or steam them for about 15 to 20 minutes, or until tender enough to mash easily.
- Mash the sweet potatoes: Drain the cooked sweet potatoes well. Mash thoroughly, then add butter, brown sugar, milk, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Mix until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Transfer to casserole dish: Spoon the mashed sweet potato mixture into a greased baking dish and smooth the top evenly with a spatula.
- Top with marshmallows: Generously sprinkle mini marshmallows over the surface, creating a thick layer that will toast into a golden brown crust.
- Bake until golden and bubbly: Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 25 minutes, or until the marshmallows have puffed up and turned a beautiful golden color.
Notes
- Use fresh sweet potatoes for best flavor and texture; canned sweet potatoes can be used if drained well.
- Don’t skip the cinnamon and nutmeg as they bring cozy warmth and enhance the flavor.
- Keep an eye on the marshmallows while baking to avoid burning; toast gradually for best results.
- Let the casserole rest for a few minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.
- For added texture, sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts on top before baking.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Sugar: 18 g
- Sodium: 150 mg
- Fat: 7 g
- Saturated Fat: 4 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 42 g
- Fiber: 4 g
- Protein: 2 g
- Cholesterol: 20 mg
Keywords: sweet potato casserole, marshmallows, holiday side dish, comfort food, gluten free, baked sweet potatoes