Sweet Potato Casserole with Marshmallows – A Classic Holiday Favorite

Sweet potato casserole with marshmallows is a warm, comforting dish that has become a staple of holiday tables across America. With its creamy sweet potato base, rich spices, and a gooey toasted marshmallow topping, it’s the perfect blend of sweet and savory. Whether you’re making it for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or just a cozy family dinner, this dish is guaranteed to impress.

Let’s dive into everything you need to know about this beloved side—its history, ingredients, variations, cooking methods, serving ideas, and expert tips.

1. What is Sweet Potato Casserole with Marshmallows?

Sweet potato casserole is a baked dish made with mashed sweet potatoes, butter, sugar, eggs, and warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg. The signature element is the toasted marshmallow topping, which adds a rich, caramelized finish.

Why Do People Love It?

• Sweet & Savory Balance – A perfect combination of flavors.
• A Holiday Favorite – Essential for Thanksgiving and Christmas.
• Easy to Make – Simple ingredients and minimal effort.
• Comfort Food at Its Best – Rich, creamy, and nostalgic.

A Brief History of Sweet Potato Casserole

The dish dates back to early American cuisine, particularly in the South, where sweet potatoes were widely grown. The addition of marshmallows came in 1917, when the Angelus Marshmallow company promoted their product as a way to elevate everyday dishes. Since then, sweet potato casserole with marshmallows has become a holiday tradition.

2. Ingredients and Variations

Classic Ingredients

To make a traditional sweet potato casserole, you’ll need:

• Sweet Potatoes – Naturally sweet and creamy.
• Butter – Adds richness and enhances flavor.
• Brown Sugar – Provides a caramel-like sweetness.
• Eggs – Helps bind the casserole and create a fluffy texture.
• Milk or Cream – Adds moisture and creaminess.
• Cinnamon & Nutmeg – Warm, comforting spices.
• Vanilla Extract – Enhances the overall sweetness.
• Marshmallows – The classic topping that makes this dish famous.

Creative Variations

Want to put a twist on the traditional recipe? Try these fun variations:

• Pecan Streusel Topping – Swap marshmallows for a crunchy pecan crumble.
• Bourbon Sweet Potato Casserole – Add a splash of bourbon for depth and warmth.
• Vegan Version – Use coconut milk and dairy-free marshmallows.
• Spicy Sweet Potato Casserole – Add a pinch of cayenne for a little heat.
• Savory Twist – Skip the sugar and add parmesan cheese and garlic for a more savory dish.

3. How to Make Sweet Potato Casserole with Marshmallows

Making this dish is easy! Just follow these steps.

Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients

You’ll need:

• 4 large sweet potatoes (about 4 cups mashed)
• ½ cup butter, melted
• ½ cup brown sugar
• ¼ cup milk
• 2 eggs, beaten
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• ½ teaspoon nutmeg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 cups mini marshmallows

Step 2: Prepare the Sweet Potatoes

• Peel and chop sweet potatoes into cubes.
• Boil them for 15-20 minutes until fork-tender.
• Drain and mash until smooth.

Step 3: Mix the Ingredients

• In a large bowl, combine mashed sweet potatoes, melted butter, brown sugar, milk, eggs, cinnamon, nutmeg, and vanilla extract.
• Stir until smooth and creamy.

Step 4: Assemble the Casserole

• Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Spread the sweet potato mixture evenly in a greased baking dish.

Step 5: Bake and Add Marshmallows

• Bake uncovered for 25 minutes.
• Remove from oven and sprinkle mini marshmallows on top.
• Return to oven and bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the marshmallows are golden brown.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Let the casserole cool slightly before serving. The marshmallow topping should be lightly toasted and gooey!

4. Tips for the Best Sweet Potato Casserole

Use Fresh Sweet Potatoes

• Fresh sweet potatoes have a better texture and natural sweetness than canned ones.

Don’t Overmix

• Overmixing can make the casserole dense. Stir just until combined.

Get the Perfect Marshmallow Topping

• Use mini marshmallows for even toasting.
• Broil for 1-2 minutes at the end for extra crispiness.

Make it Extra Creamy

• Use half-and-half or heavy cream instead of milk for richness.

Prep Ahead for Convenience

• Assemble the casserole a day in advance and refrigerate.
• Add marshmallows just before baking.

5. What to Serve with Sweet Potato Casserole?

Sweet potato casserole is a perfect holiday side dish. It pairs well with:

• Roast Turkey – The classic Thanksgiving combo.
• Glazed Ham – Sweet and salty flavors complement each other.
• Prime Rib – A rich pairing for a special occasion.
• Green Bean Casserole – A great contrast in texture.
• Mashed Potatoes – Because two types of potatoes are better than one.
• Cranberry Sauce – The tartness balances the sweetness of the casserole.

6. Storing and Reheating Sweet Potato Casserole

Refrigerating

• Store leftovers in an airtight container for 3-4 days.

Freezing

• Freeze without marshmallows for up to 2 months.
• Add fresh marshmallows when reheating.

Reheating

• Oven: Bake at 350°F for 20 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat in 30-second intervals until warmed through.

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FAQs

1. Can I make sweet potato casserole ahead of time?

Yes! Prepare and refrigerate the mixture a day in advance. Add marshmallows before baking.

2. Can I use canned sweet potatoes?

Yes, but fresh sweet potatoes have better texture and flavor.

3. How do I make sweet potato casserole without eggs?

Use a flax egg (1 tbsp flaxseed + 3 tbsp water) as a substitute.

4. What can I use instead of marshmallows?

Try a pecan streusel topping made with brown sugar, butter, and chopped pecans.

5. Can I make this casserole less sweet?

Reduce or omit the brown sugar and let the sweet potatoes’ natural flavor shine.

6. How do I make it dairy-free?

Use coconut milk or almond milk, and replace butter with a dairy-free alternative.

7. Can I add nuts to the casserole?

Yes! Pecans or walnuts add a delicious crunch.

8. What’s the best dish to bake sweet potato casserole in?

A ceramic or glass baking dish ensures even baking and retains heat well.

9. Can I use maple syrup instead of brown sugar?

Yes! Maple syrup adds a rich, natural sweetness.

10. How do I prevent the marshmallows from burning?

Watch closely in the last few minutes and use broil mode cautiously.

Sweet potato casserole with marshmallows is the perfect blend of nostalgia, comfort, and holiday cheer. Give it a try and make your celebrations even sweeter!