Sweet Potato Casserole with Marshmallows – Classic Holiday Comfort Dish

If there’s one dish that embodies the cozy, nostalgic charm of the holidays, it’s Sweet Potato Casserole with Marshmallows. The combination of silky mashed sweet potatoes, warm cinnamon and vanilla, and a golden, gooey marshmallow topping is nothing short of magical. It walks the line between side dish and dessert, bringing a sense of indulgence to any festive table.

I grew up watching my grandmother make this casserole every Thanksgiving. She never used a written recipe — just a memory honed by decades of family dinners. I remember sitting at the kitchen counter, watching her whip the potatoes until they were cloud-like, then carefully scatter marshmallows across the top. As the casserole baked, the marshmallows would puff and caramelize, filling the kitchen with an aroma so inviting that we could barely wait for dinner to start.

This updated version stays true to that traditional flavor while offering a few smart upgrades for modern cooks — including time-saving tips, make-ahead tricks, and optional twists that keep it fresh and exciting.

Why Make This Sweet Potato Casserole with Marshmallows?

There are countless ways to serve sweet potatoes, but this casserole captures their essence better than almost any other dish. Here’s why it deserves a spot on your menu — not just for the holidays, but any time you crave something comforting and wholesome.

1. It’s the ultimate crowd-pleaser. Creamy, buttery sweet potatoes paired with toasted marshmallows? Everyone — kids and adults alike — will be asking for seconds.

2. Packed with nutrition. Sweet potatoes are rich in vitamin A, vitamin C, potassium, and fiber, making this casserole far more nourishing than most desserts.

3. Perfect make-ahead dish. You can prepare it in advance, refrigerate overnight, and bake before serving — ideal for holiday chaos.

4. Customizable sweetness. Adjust the sugar level, swap toppings, or add spices to tailor it exactly to your taste.

5. It brings nostalgia and joy. Beyond flavor, it carries memories of family, tradition, and celebration — a comforting ritual in every bite.

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Ingredients List

For the Sweet Potato Mixture

• 4 large sweet potatoes (about 3 pounds), peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes

• ½ cup brown sugar (light for mild sweetness, dark for deeper caramel flavor)

• ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled

• ¼ cup milk (or half-and-half for extra richness)

• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

• ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon

• ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg

• ½ teaspoon salt

• 2 large eggs, lightly beaten (binds the mixture and adds structure)

For the Topping

• 2 cups mini marshmallows

• ½ cup chopped pecans (optional, for crunch and flavor contrast)

• 2 tablespoons brown sugar

• 1 tablespoon melted butter

Substitution Notes

• Use coconut milk or almond milk for dairy-free versions.

• Replace butter with vegan butter or coconut oil.

• Substitute walnuts or hazelnuts for pecans if desired.

• For a refined-sugar-free variation, use maple syrup or honey instead of brown sugar.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Sweet Potatoes

Peel the sweet potatoes and cut them into evenly sized cubes — about one inch each. Uniform size ensures they cook evenly. Place the cubes in a large pot, cover with cold water, and add a generous pinch of salt.
Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce to a simmer. Cook for 15–18 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender and easily mashable. Drain thoroughly, allowing steam to escape for a few minutes — excess moisture can make the casserole watery.

Step 2: Mash Until Creamy

Transfer the hot sweet potatoes to a large mixing bowl. Use a potato masher or hand mixer to mash until smooth. If you prefer a fluffier texture, a hand mixer will aerate the potatoes beautifully.

Add the melted butter, brown sugar, milk, vanilla, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Stir until fully combined. Then mix in the beaten eggs (adding them last ensures they don’t scramble from the heat). The mixture should be creamy, fragrant, and slightly thick — similar to mashed pumpkin pie filling.

Step 3: Prepare the Baking Dish

Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or oil spray. Spread the sweet potato mixture evenly, smoothing the top with a spatula so the surface is level for the topping.

Step 4: Make the Crunchy Topping

In a small bowl, combine chopped pecans, brown sugar, and melted butter. Stir until the pecans are evenly coated and slightly glossy. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the sweet potatoes, covering the surface.

Step 5: Add the Marshmallows

Scatter mini marshmallows evenly on top. Don’t overcrowd — they’ll expand while baking. A thin, even layer ensures every bite has a mix of fluffy sweetness and creamy filling beneath.

Step 6: Bake to Golden Perfection

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the casserole uncovered for 25–30 minutes, or until the marshmallows are lightly golden and toasted. For extra caramelization, you can broil it for 1–2 minutes at the end — just watch closely to prevent burning.

Step 7: Rest and Serve

Remove from the oven and let the casserole rest for about 10 minutes. This cooling period allows the filling to set slightly, making it easier to slice and serve. Serve warm as a side or dessert-style dish.

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Tips and Substitutions

1. Texture Control: For a chunkier casserole, mash only half the sweet potatoes and leave the rest in small chunks. This adds rustic texture and visual appeal.

2. Enhance Flavor Depth: Add a splash of orange juice or a teaspoon of orange zest to the mixture. The citrus brightens the dish and balances the sweetness beautifully.

3. Boost the Aroma: A pinch of ground ginger or allspice can create a more complex spice profile.

4. Nut-Free Alternative: Replace nuts with a crumble topping made from oats, flour, and butter for a similar crunch.

5. Make It Vegan: Swap the eggs for flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed + 2½ tablespoons water per egg) and use vegan marshmallows.

6. Lower Sugar Version: Replace half the brown sugar with unsweetened applesauce or mashed ripe banana. You’ll still get sweetness and moisture, but with less refined sugar.

7. Make Ahead: Assemble the casserole (without the marshmallows), cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, let it come to room temperature, add the marshmallows, and bake as directed.

8. Freezer Friendly: After baking, let it cool completely. Wrap tightly with plastic wrap and foil. It will keep for up to 2 months. Reheat covered at 350°F until hot.

Recipe Variations

1. Maple-Pecan Sweet Potato Casserole

Swap the brown sugar with ¼ cup of pure maple syrup in the filling and topping. The natural maple flavor complements the marshmallows perfectly and adds a caramel-like richness.

2. Coconut-Pecan Holiday Casserole

Use coconut milk instead of dairy milk and sprinkle shredded coconut into the pecan topping. The result is a tropical twist that still feels indulgent and comforting.

3. Savory Sweet Potato Bake

Skip the marshmallows entirely and instead top the casserole with a blend of grated Parmesan, breadcrumbs, and fresh thyme. Perfect for those who prefer a less-sweet side dish.

4. Cranberry-Orange Sweet Potato Casserole

Fold in ½ cup dried cranberries and 1 tablespoon orange zest into the sweet potato mixture before baking. The cranberries add tart bursts of flavor, and the orange zest lifts the entire dish with freshness.

5. Mini Individual Servings

For dinner parties or potlucks, bake the casserole in individual ramekins. Each guest gets their own personal serving with the same caramelized top — elegant and practical.

6. Marshmallow-Free Nut Crumble

Replace marshmallows with a crumble of oats, butter, chopped nuts, and a drizzle of honey. This alternative provides a crispy, granola-like top layer that’s both wholesome and satisfying.

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Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Sweet potatoes are one of nature’s top sources of beta-carotene, a powerful antioxidant that supports immune health and skin vitality. The moderate fat content from butter and nuts helps your body absorb these fat-soluble vitamins efficiently, turning this cozy dish into a nutrient-packed powerhouse.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

Storage:

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

• Freezer: Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

• Reheat: Warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15–20 minutes uncovered to keep the marshmallows crisp.

Serving Suggestions:

• Serve it hot alongside roast turkey, glazed ham, or herb-crusted chicken for the holidays.

• For brunch, pair it with scrambled eggs and a crisp green salad to balance the sweetness.

• Drizzle with a bit of maple syrup or honey for a dessert-style presentation.

• Garnish with a sprinkle of chopped toasted nuts or a dusting of cinnamon for a restaurant-quality finish.

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Common Questions

1. Can I use canned sweet potatoes?
Yes. Drain them well and slightly reduce the sugar, since canned varieties often contain syrup.

2. How do I prevent marshmallows from burning?
Add them halfway through baking or cover the dish loosely with foil if they brown too quickly.

3. Can I make this without eggs?
Absolutely. Substitute 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water per egg, or use flax eggs for a plant-based option.

4. How can I make it less sweet?
Reduce the sugar in the filling, use fewer marshmallows, or switch to the savory variation with herbs and cheese.

5. Can I double the recipe for a crowd?
Yes. Use a larger baking dish or two 9×13-inch pans. The baking time may increase by about 10 minutes.

Conclusion

A Sweet Potato Casserole with Marshmallows is more than just a dish — it’s a memory in every bite. Creamy, golden, and decadently sweet, it brings a comforting sense of nostalgia and warmth to the table. Yet beneath that indulgent flavor lies the surprising power of sweet potatoes — a nutrient-rich food that fuels your body and soothes your soul.

Whether you serve it at Thanksgiving, Christmas, or a simple family dinner, this casserole always delivers joy. And with the variations and tips above, you can make it uniquely your own.