Classic Sweet Potato Casserole with Marshmallows Recipe
Sweet Potato Casserole with Marshmallows is a classic holiday side dish that perfectly balances the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with the gooey, caramelized goodness of toasted marshmallows. This dish has been a Thanksgiving and Christmas staple in American households for generations. The combination of creamy mashed sweet potatoes, brown sugar, butter, and warm spices makes this a comforting and irresistible treat. Whether you’re making it for a holiday dinner or a special occasion, this recipe will bring nostalgia and joy to your table.
Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 52g
- Protein: 3g
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fiber: 5g
- Sugar: 28g
Recipe Details
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Active Time: 20 minutes
- Resting Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Cuisine: American
- Course: Side Dish
- Servings: 8
Equipment Needed
- Large pot
- Potato masher or electric mixer
- Large mixing bowl
- 9×13-inch baking dish
- Whisk
- Rubber spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
Ingredients
- 4 large sweet potatoes (about 3 pounds), peeled and cubed
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/4 cup maple syrup (optional)
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 cups mini marshmallows
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans (optional, for topping)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Sweet Potatoes
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large pot, add cubed sweet potatoes and cover them with water.
- Bring the water to a boil and cook for about 15 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes are fork-tender.
- Drain the sweet potatoes and transfer them to a large mixing bowl.
Step 2: Mash the Sweet Potatoes
- Using a potato masher or an electric mixer, mash the sweet potatoes until smooth and creamy.
- Add melted butter, brown sugar, maple syrup (if using), milk, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Mix until well combined.
Step 3: Assemble the Casserole
- Transfer the sweet potato mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it evenly.
- Sprinkle chopped pecans over the top (if using).
- Evenly distribute mini marshmallows over the casserole.
Step 4: Bake and Serve
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, or until the marshmallows are golden brown and slightly toasted.
- Remove from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before serving.
- Serve warm and enjoy!
Tips for the Best Sweet Potato Casserole
- Make Ahead Option: You can prepare the sweet potato mixture a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, top with marshmallows and bake as instructed.
- Add a Crunchy Topping: If you love a bit of crunch, consider adding a pecan streusel topping instead of just marshmallows.
- Use Fresh Sweet Potatoes: While canned sweet potatoes can be used, fresh sweet potatoes provide a richer flavor and better texture.
Conclusion
Sweet Potato Casserole with Marshmallows is a must-have dish for any holiday meal. Its delightful combination of creamy sweet potatoes, warm spices, and gooey marshmallows makes it a family favorite. Whether you’re preparing it for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or a cozy dinner, this dish is guaranteed to be a hit. Try this easy recipe, and let the sweet aroma of baked marshmallows fill your home!
I am Ashley Doyle, Senior Specialist in Food & Policy at The Humane Society of the United States and editor at airfryermama.com. I am passionate about transforming our global food system by promoting delicious, climate-friendly, plant-based foods. After transitioning from law to food and public policy, I now work with major food service companies to develop plant-based initiatives and animal welfare policies. My goal is to drive institutional change to combat climate change and improve our food system.