Sweet Potato Casserole with Marshmallows – Easy & Delicious Recipe

Sweet Potato Casserole with Marshmallows is the ultimate comfort food that transforms any holiday meal into a celebration. The combination of creamy mashed sweet potatoes, a crunchy pecan topping, and the gooey, golden-brown marshmallows on top makes this dish a family favorite. Whether it’s Thanksgiving, Christmas, or a special dinner, this dish is sure to become a staple on your holiday table. In this recipe, we’ve perfected the balance of flavors and textures to create a casserole that everyone will love.

Why Sweet Potato Casserole with Marshmallows Is a Must-Try

This Sweet Potato Casserole with Marshmallows isn’t just a side dish—it’s a standout. With its smooth sweet potato filling, rich brown sugar pecan crumble, and perfectly toasted marshmallows, it strikes the perfect balance between savory and sweet. The layers of flavor make it ideal for family dinners, holiday gatherings, or even as a sweet treat during a cozy fall evening.

The secret to this dish’s success is the marshmallows. As they bake, they melt into a sticky-sweet topping that pairs beautifully with the roasted pecans. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to make, ensuring you can enjoy a delicious dish without spending hours in the kitchen.

Ingredients for Sweet Potato Casserole with Marshmallows

For the Sweet Potato Filling:

• Sweet Potatoes: The base of this dish, providing a smooth texture and a sweet flavor that pairs perfectly with the marshmallows.
• Brown Sugar: Adds a rich sweetness that balances the earthy flavor of the sweet potatoes.
• Butter: For a creamy texture and a savory flavor that elevates the dish.
• Cinnamon & Nutmeg: These warm spices enhance the sweetness of the sweet potatoes and add comfort-food appeal.
• Salt: To bring out the natural flavors of the sweet potatoes.
• Vanilla Extract: Adds a touch of warmth and depth to the flavor profile.

For the Pecan Topping:

• Pecan Pieces: Offer a crunchy, slightly salty texture that contrasts beautifully with the sweet potatoes.
• Brown Sugar: Sweetens the pecans and creates a crunchy topping.
• Flour: Helps bind the pecans together to form the perfect crumble.
• Butter: Combines with the brown sugar to form a rich, golden topping.

For the Marshmallow Layer:

• Mini Marshmallows: These melt to form a gooey, sweet layer on top, creating that classic marshmallow topping everyone loves.

Alternative Ingredient Suggestions

If you’re looking to adjust this recipe for dietary preferences, consider these swaps:

• Dairy-Free Option: Substitute the butter with a plant-based alternative like coconut oil or dairy-free margarine.
• Vegan Marshmallows: Use marshmallows made without gelatin for a vegan-friendly version of this casserole.
• Nut-Free: Replace the pecans with crushed graham crackers or a mix of seeds like pumpkin and sunflower for a crunchy topping.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Sweet Potato Casserole with Marshmallows

1. Prepare the Sweet Potatoes: Begin by peeling and cutting the sweet potatoes into large chunks. Place them in a large pot and cover them with water. Bring the water to a boil and cook the sweet potatoes until they are fork-tender, about 15-20 minutes. Drain them and return the sweet potatoes to the pot.
2. Mash the Sweet Potatoes: Mash the sweet potatoes using a potato masher. Once mashed, add the melted butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, vanilla extract, and salt. Mix until smooth and well-combined.
3. Make the Pecan Topping: In a separate bowl, combine the melted butter, brown sugar, flour, salt, and chopped pecans. Stir until everything is evenly mixed, forming a crumbly texture.
4. Assemble the Casserole: Grease a 9×13 baking dish with cooking spray. Spread the mashed sweet potato mixture evenly in the dish. Sprinkle the pecan topping over the mashed sweet potatoes, ensuring an even layer.
5. Add the Marshmallows: Top the casserole with an even layer of mini marshmallows. Be sure to cover the entire surface with marshmallows for that golden, toasty topping.
6. Bake the Casserole: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the casserole for 25-35 minutes, or until the marshmallows are golden brown and the casserole is bubbly. Keep a close eye on the marshmallows towards the end to ensure they toast perfectly without burning.
7. Serve and Enjoy: Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and allow it to cool slightly before serving. This dish is best enjoyed warm, with its gooey marshmallows and crunchy pecan topping.

Tips & Tricks for the Perfect Sweet Potato Casserole with Marshmallows

• Watch the Marshmallows: Marshmallows can burn quickly, so keep an eye on them as they bake. If they start to brown too fast, you can cover the casserole with foil and continue baking.
• Smooth Sweet Potato Filling: For an ultra-smooth filling, use a hand mixer or stand mixer to blend the sweet potatoes after mashing. This will ensure a creamy texture.
• Make Ahead: You can prep the casserole the night before by assembling the sweet potato filling and topping. Store it in the fridge overnight, and add the marshmallows just before baking.

Pairing Ideas and Variations for Sweet Potato Casserole with Marshmallows

Sweet Potato Casserole with Marshmallows is versatile enough to pair with a variety of main dishes. Here are some great pairing ideas:

• Main Dishes: Serve this casserole alongside roasted turkey, glazed ham, or a succulent roast chicken for a complete holiday meal.
• Side Dishes: Complement the casserole with green bean almondine, roasted Brussels sprouts, or a fresh cranberry sauce for balance.
• Sauces: A drizzle of caramel or maple syrup on top can enhance the sweetness and add an extra layer of flavor.

For variations, consider swapping the marshmallows for toasted coconut flakes or adding a sprinkle of cinnamon on top before baking for added warmth. For a more decadent version, you can add a layer of crushed graham crackers between the sweet potatoes and marshmallows.

Seasonal & Health Benefits of Sweet Potato Casserole with Marshmallows

Sweet Potato Casserole with Marshmallows is perfect for fall and winter gatherings, especially during the holidays when sweet potatoes are in season. Not only do sweet potatoes provide a comforting and familiar flavor, but they are also a nutritious root vegetable packed with fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants like beta-carotene. This casserole is a delicious way to sneak some veggies into a festive dish, making it a win-win for both taste and nutrition.

Sweet potatoes are known for their high vitamin A content, which supports healthy vision and immune function. Plus, they are rich in fiber, which helps support digestive health. While this dish is a treat with its sweet marshmallow topping, the nutritional benefits of sweet potatoes make it a much healthier option than other sugary side dishes.

Conclusion

Sweet Potato Casserole with Marshmallows is the ultimate comfort dish for your holiday celebrations. Its combination of creamy sweet potatoes, crunchy pecans, and gooey, golden-brown marshmallows creates the perfect balance of flavors and textures. This dish not only adds a festive touch to any meal but also provides a nostalgic taste that will remind you of family gatherings and holiday feasts. Whether you’re serving it for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any special occasion, this casserole will quickly become a favorite. Easy to make, full of flavor, and loved by all ages, it’s truly a dish that brings everyone together at the table.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

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