Sweet Potato Casserole with Marshmallows

Few dishes say “holiday comfort” quite like sweet potato casserole. Its silky, naturally sweet base and the golden, toasted marshmallow topping create the perfect balance of creamy, fluffy, and slightly caramelized textures. This nostalgic dish has been gracing Thanksgiving and Christmas tables for generations, and for good reason — it’s both simple and spectacular.

This recipe is your go-to version: sweet, rich, and melt-in-your-mouth soft, with just the right amount of spice and sweetness. It’s easy enough for weeknight dinners but elegant enough for the holiday table.

Whether you serve it next to roast turkey, glazed chicken, or a hearty vegetarian main, this sweet potato casserole is pure comfort in every bite.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Classic flavor: The perfect combination of creamy sweet potatoes and gooey toasted marshmallows.

• Holiday staple: A must-have for Thanksgiving, Christmas, and other festive dinners.

• Make-ahead friendly: Prepare the base in advance and bake just before serving.

• Family-approved: Sweet, warm, and perfectly balanced — everyone from kids to grandparents will love it.

• Customizable: Swap the marshmallows for pecan crumble or keep it simple and traditional.

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Ingredients

For the Sweet Potato Base

• 4 large sweet potatoes (about 3 pounds)

• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened

• ⅓ cup brown sugar (light or dark, to taste)

• ¼ cup maple syrup or honey

• ½ cup milk (dairy or almond for dairy-free)

• 2 large eggs

• 1 tsp pure vanilla extract

• ½ tsp ground cinnamon

• ¼ tsp nutmeg

• ¼ tsp salt

For the Topping

• 3–4 cups mini marshmallows (enough to fully cover the top)

Optional Add-Ons:

• ½ cup chopped pecans (for crunch)

• A pinch of allspice or cloves for deeper warmth

• Dash of orange zest for a citrus twist

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Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Sweet Potatoes

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

2. Wash and scrub the sweet potatoes well. Pierce each one several times with a fork.

3. Place on a lined baking sheet and roast for 45–55 minutes, or until very tender when pierced.

4. Let them cool slightly, then peel and discard the skins.

Tip: You can also boil the potatoes for 20–25 minutes, but roasting deepens the flavor and brings out their natural sweetness.

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Step 2: Mash and Mix the Base

1. Place peeled sweet potatoes in a large mixing bowl. Mash until smooth and creamy.

2. Add softened butter, brown sugar, maple syrup (or honey), milk, eggs, vanilla, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.

3. Whip with a hand mixer or whisk until the mixture is light, fluffy, and uniform.

The eggs make the casserole slightly soufflé-like — soft and airy, not dense.

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Step 3: Assemble the Casserole

1. Reduce oven temperature to 350°F (175°C).

2. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray.

3. Spread the sweet potato mixture evenly into the dish, smoothing the top.

4. Sprinkle chopped pecans if using.

5. Layer the mini marshmallows evenly over the top.

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Step 4: Bake to Perfection

1. Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes, until the marshmallows are puffed and golden brown.

2. For extra toasting, switch the oven to broil for 30–60 seconds — watch closely so it doesn’t burn!

You’ll know it’s done when the marshmallows form a golden, slightly crisp shell and the casserole underneath is hot and bubbly.

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Serving Suggestions

Serve warm as a side dish or even a dessert-style treat. Sweet potato casserole pairs beautifully with:

• Roast turkey or chicken

• Green bean casserole

• Cranberry sauce

• Garlic mashed potatoes

• Roasted vegetables

You can also serve smaller portions as part of a holiday buffet, where guests can help themselves.

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Make-Ahead Tips

To prepare in advance:

• Assemble the sweet potato mixture up to 2 days ahead.

• Store in an airtight container or covered casserole dish in the refrigerator.

• When ready to bake, add the marshmallows on top and bake as directed.

To freeze:

• You can freeze the mashed sweet potato base (without toppings) for up to 2 months.

• Thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then top with marshmallows and bake.

To reheat leftovers:

• Cover loosely with foil and bake at 325°F (160°C) for 15–20 minutes.

• If reheating individual servings, microwave for 45–60 seconds.

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Flavor Variations

1. Pecan Streusel Topping:
   Mix ½ cup brown sugar, ⅓ cup flour, 3 tbsp butter, and ½ cup chopped pecans. Sprinkle on top before baking for a crunchy twist.

2. Mini Marshmallows + Streusel Combo:
   Layer streusel first, then marshmallows — the ultimate texture balance!

3. Vegan Version:

   • Substitute butter with coconut oil or vegan butter.

   • Use almond milk or oat milk.

   • Swap regular marshmallows for vegan marshmallows (gelatin-free).

4. Less Sweet Version:
   Reduce the sugar and skip the marshmallows. Top with pecans, oats, or even roasted pumpkin seeds.

5. Spiced Orange Version:
   Add orange zest and a splash of orange juice to the base for a bright, citrusy note that complements the sweetness.

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Tips for Perfect Texture

• Don’t over-mix once you add eggs; just combine until smooth to keep it airy.

• Roast instead of boil for richer flavor and less watery texture.

• Use room temperature ingredients so the mixture blends evenly.

• Add marshmallows last minute if baking ahead — they’ll stay soft and fresh.

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Nutritional Benefits

Even though this dish feels indulgent, it offers wholesome nutrition from its main ingredient: the sweet potato.

• High in Vitamin A: Supports eye and immune health.

• Rich in Fiber: Aids digestion and promotes fullness.

• Good Source of Antioxidants: Protects against oxidative stress.

• Contains Potassium and Magnesium: Helps regulate muscle and nerve function.

By moderating sugar and butter, you can make this a balanced treat that nourishes as it comforts.

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Sweet Potato Casserole vs. Sweet Potato Pie

Many confuse these two Southern favorites, but here’s the difference:

• Casserole: Served as a side dish with savory mains, topped with marshmallows or nuts.

• Pie: Served as dessert, baked in a crust and sweetened more heavily.

This recipe lands somewhere between the two — sweet enough for dessert lovers, but balanced for the dinner table.

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How to Serve It Beautifully

• Garnish with a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg before serving.

• Add a few extra toasted pecans for visual appeal.

• Serve straight from the baking dish — it’s rustic, homey, and festive.

For special occasions, bake individual portions in small ramekins for a personal touch.

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Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Burning the marshmallows: Always watch closely near the end — they brown fast!

• Watery potatoes: Avoid over-boiling; roasting gives better consistency.

• Over-sweetening: Remember, the marshmallows add sweetness. Taste the filling before baking.

• Undermixing: Ensure a smooth, creamy base by thoroughly mashing and whisking.

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Pairing Ideas for a Complete Holiday Menu

Main Dishes:

• Roast turkey with herbs

• Baked chicken breast with garlic butter

• Lentil loaf (vegetarian)

Sides:

• Green beans with almonds

• Savory cornbread

• Cranberry-orange relish

Desserts:

• Apple crisp

• Pumpkin pie

• Pecan tarts

This casserole ties the meal together with its perfect balance of sweet and savory warmth.

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How to Make It Kid-Friendly

Kids love this dish for its marshmallow topping! Involve them by:

• Letting them mash the sweet potatoes

• Sprinkling marshmallows on top before baking

• Helping mix the spices

It’s a fun, family-centered recipe that teaches them the joy of homemade holiday food.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make it without eggs?
Yes, replace eggs with 2 tbsp cornstarch or 2 tbsp flaxseed meal mixed with 5 tbsp water.

Can I use canned sweet potatoes?
You can! Drain well and skip additional sugar if the canned variety is already sweetened.

Why is my casserole watery?
Overcooked or boiled potatoes retain too much water. Roasting helps avoid this.

Can I use large marshmallows?
Yes, just cut them in half. Mini marshmallows, however, toast more evenly.

Can this be served cold?
It’s best enjoyed warm, but chilled leftovers taste great too — almost like dessert.

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The Heart of the Holiday Table

Sweet potato casserole with marshmallows isn’t just a side dish — it’s a piece of tradition. It carries nostalgia, warmth, and joy, reminding everyone at the table of family gatherings, laughter, and second servings.

It’s the dish that bridges savory and sweet, the one that turns a simple vegetable into a holiday masterpiece. Whether you make it once a year or as a special comfort meal in winter, it’s guaranteed to bring smiles and satisfaction.