There’s something undeniably heartwarming about a dish that combines creamy sweet potatoes and gooey marshmallows. This Classic Sweet Potato Casserole with Marshmallow Topping is the ultimate comfort food and a staple at holiday gatherings. It’s a delightful blend of sweet, spiced, and buttery flavors, all topped with a golden layer of marshmallows. Whether you’re making it for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or just because, this dish is guaranteed to steal the spotlight.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Imagine biting into a casserole where every forkful delivers velvety sweet potatoes with a hint of cinnamon and nutmeg, topped with perfectly toasted marshmallows. It’s like dessert and a side dish in one, evoking nostalgia with every bite. This recipe is simple enough for beginners yet impressive enough to wow your guests.
Ingredients for Classic Sweet Potato Casserole with Marshmallow Topping
Ingredient | Quantity |
---|---|
Sweet Potatoes | 4 large, skinned and diced |
Light Brown Sugar | 1 cup |
Ground Cinnamon | 1/2 teaspoon |
Ground Nutmeg | 1/4 teaspoon |
Salt | 1/2 teaspoon |
Vanilla Extract | 1 teaspoon |
Butter | 1/2 cup |
Mini Marshmallows | 10 oz |
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Sweet Potatoes
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Peel and dice the sweet potatoes into even chunks to ensure they cook evenly.
- Place the sweet potatoes in a large pot, cover with water, and bring to a boil.
- Cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes are tender enough to be pierced with a fork.
2. Mash the Sweet Potatoes
- Drain the sweet potatoes well and return them to the pot.
- Add the butter and mash until smooth and creamy. You can use a potato masher or an electric mixer for the best consistency.
3. Add the Flavors
- Mix in the light brown sugar, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, salt, and vanilla extract.
- Stir until all the ingredients are fully incorporated and the mixture is velvety smooth.
4. Transfer to Baking Dish
- Spread the sweet potato mixture evenly into a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Smooth the surface with a spatula to ensure an even layer.
5. Top with Marshmallows
- Generously sprinkle the mini marshmallows over the sweet potato layer.
- Spread them evenly to cover the surface completely for a gorgeous golden topping.
6. Bake
- Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes.
- Keep an eye on the marshmallows—they should melt and turn a lovely golden brown.
7. Serve and Enjoy
- Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 5-10 minutes.
- Serve warm, enjoying the combination of creamy sweet potatoes and gooey marshmallows in every bite.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
Nutrient | Amount |
---|---|
Calories | 320 kcal |
Protein | 3 g |
Carbohydrates | 47 g |
Fat | 13 g |
Sodium | 250 mg |
Fiber | 3 g |
Tips for Success
- Cut Evenly: Dice the sweet potatoes into uniform pieces to ensure they cook evenly.
- Watch the Marshmallows: Keep a close eye on the casserole while baking to avoid burning the marshmallow topping.
- Customize the Sweetness: Adjust the brown sugar to your taste. For less sweetness, reduce it to 3/4 cup.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with Savory Dishes: This casserole is the perfect accompaniment to roast turkey, ham, or beef tenderloin.
- Add Texture: For a crunchy contrast, sprinkle chopped pecans over the marshmallows before baking.
- Make It a Dessert: Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent treat.
FAQs About Classic Sweet Potato Casserole with Marshmallow Topping
1. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare the sweet potato mixture and spread it into the baking dish. Cover and refrigerate. Add the marshmallows and bake when you’re ready to serve.
2. What can I substitute for marshmallows?
If you prefer a different topping, use a pecan streusel made with brown sugar, butter, and chopped pecans.
3. How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.
4. Can I use canned sweet potatoes?
Yes, canned sweet potatoes (drained) can be used as a time-saving option. Reduce the brown sugar slightly, as canned sweet potatoes are often packed in syrup.
5. Is this dish gluten-free?
Yes, the recipe is naturally gluten-free. Just ensure your marshmallows and other ingredients are labeled gluten-free if needed.
6. How do I prevent the marshmallows from burning?
Check the casserole after 20 minutes. If the marshmallows are browning too quickly, cover the dish loosely with aluminum foil.
Final Thoughts
This Classic Sweet Potato Casserole with Marshmallow Topping is more than just a side dish—it’s a celebration of comforting flavors and nostalgia. Its creamy texture, sweet-spiced flavor, and gooey topping make it a favorite at any gathering. With simple ingredients and easy preparation, it’s the perfect addition to your holiday table or a cozy family meal.
PrintClassic Sweet Potato Casserole with Marshmallow Topping
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6-8 servings
Description
This Classic Sweet Potato Casserole with Marshmallow Topping is the perfect combination of sweet and savory. Creamy, spiced sweet potatoes meet a gooey, golden marshmallow topping for a side dish that feels like a warm hug. Whether you’re preparing for Thanksgiving or just want to add something special to a weeknight meal, this casserole will be an unforgettable addition to your table!
Ingredients
- 4 large sweet potatoes, skinned and diced into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup light brown sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup butter
- 10 oz mini marshmallows
Instructions
-
Prepare the Sweet Potatoes
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Peel and dice the sweet potatoes into even chunks to ensure uniform cooking.
- Place the sweet potatoes in a large pot of water and bring to a boil. Cook for 15-20 minutes, or until they’re fork-tender.
-
Mash the Sweet Potatoes
- Drain the sweet potatoes and return them to the pot.
- Add the butter and mash until smooth and creamy, using a potato masher or an electric mixer.
-
Add Flavor
- Stir in the brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and vanilla extract. Mix thoroughly until the ingredients are well combined.
-
Assemble the Casserole
- Spread the sweet potato mixture evenly into a 9×13-inch baking dish, smoothing the top with a spatula.
- Generously sprinkle mini marshmallows over the surface, covering it completely.
-
Bake the Casserole
- Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. Keep a close eye on the marshmallows, ensuring they melt and turn golden brown without burning.
-
Serve and Enjoy
- Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Serve warm and enjoy the perfect balance of creamy sweet potatoes and gooey marshmallows in every bite.
Notes
- Make Ahead: Prepare the sweet potato mixture the night before and store it in the refrigerator. Add the marshmallows and bake fresh.
- Customize the Topping: For a nutty crunch, add chopped pecans or walnuts along with the marshmallows.
- Alternative Sweetness: Swap light brown sugar with maple syrup or honey for a twist in flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American