Sweet Potato Casserole with Marshmallows Recipe | Creamy and Delicious Holiday Side

Sweet potato casserole with marshmallows has long held a cherished place on holiday tables and family dinners across the country.

Its combination of creamy, sweet potatoes and a golden, gooey marshmallow topping creates a comforting dish that feels both nostalgic and indulgent. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity paired with versatility. Sweet potatoes naturally offer a rich, earthy flavor that blends perfectly with warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg. When topped with marshmallows, the casserole transforms into a lightly caramelized, fluffy delight that captures the essence of festive cooking.

Ingredients Needed

Creating a sweet potato casserole with marshmallows requires simple, accessible ingredients. Using fresh sweet potatoes provides the best flavor, while classic spices and a small amount of butter enhance natural sweetness without overwhelming the dish. Below is a detailed table listing each ingredient and its approximate calorie count to help with planning.

Ingredient	Amount	Calories (approx)
Sweet potatoes	4 medium (about 2 pounds)	360
Unsalted butter	1/2 cup (1 stick)	810
Brown sugar	1/2 cup	215
Vanilla extract	1 teaspoon	12
Ground cinnamon	1 teaspoon	6
Ground nutmeg	1/4 teaspoon	3
Salt	1/2 teaspoon	0
Milk	1/4 cup	40
Large marshmallows	2 cups	400

The ingredients are easy to source, and many households already have them on hand. Using full-fat butter and marshmallows ensures the casserole achieves a golden, caramelized finish, while milk and vanilla help maintain a creamy, cohesive texture.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Perfecting sweet potato casserole with marshmallows involves a few careful steps. Each step ensures the flavors meld while the texture remains smooth and inviting.

1. Prepare the sweet potatoes
   Begin by peeling and cutting sweet potatoes into evenly sized chunks. Boil in a large pot of water for 15 to 20 minutes until tender. Test doneness by piercing with a fork; the sweet potatoes should yield easily without falling apart. Drain well and set aside.Don’t forget to explore Sweet potato pie for more inspiration.
2. Mash the sweet potatoes
   Transfer cooked sweet potatoes to a large mixing bowl. Add butter, brown sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and milk. Mash until smooth using a potato masher or electric mixer. Aim for a creamy, slightly thick consistency that will hold its shape in the casserole dish.
3. Preheat the oven
   Preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Grease a 9 by 13-inch baking dish with butter or nonstick spray to prevent sticking and encourage even browning.
4. Assemble the casserole
   Spread the mashed sweet potatoes evenly in the prepared baking dish. Smooth the top with a spatula for a flat surface, ensuring the marshmallows will toast evenly.
5. Add marshmallows
   Arrange marshmallows evenly over the sweet potato layer. For extra golden topping, slightly press marshmallows into the mash so they stick during baking.
6. Bake the casserole
   Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes until marshmallows are puffed and golden brown. Watch closely during the last 5 minutes to avoid burning.
7. Cool and serve
   Remove from the oven and allow the casserole to cool for 5 minutes before serving. The marshmallows will slightly firm up while maintaining a soft center.

Following these steps ensures a sweet potato casserole that balances rich sweetness, creamy texture, and a perfectly toasted marshmallow topping.

Tips for Customizing the Recipe

Sweet potato casserole with marshmallows is versatile and can be adapted to fit various tastes and dietary preferences.

• Nut topping: Adding chopped pecans or walnuts on top of the marshmallows adds crunch and a slightly nutty flavor. Toast the nuts lightly for extra aroma.
• Spice variations: Experiment with ginger, allspice, or cloves to create a deeper, more complex flavor profile. A pinch of ground cardamom can also add a unique warmth.
• Healthier options: Substitute butter with coconut oil and brown sugar with maple syrup for a slightly lighter version. Mini marshmallows or a reduced quantity can reduce overall sweetness.
• Vegan adaptation: Use plant-based butter, non-dairy milk, and vegan marshmallows to make the dish fully vegan without losing the signature flavor.
• Caramel drizzle: A light drizzle of caramel sauce over the marshmallows just before serving elevates the dish for special occasions.

These simple adjustments allow you to customize the casserole while maintaining its comforting appeal.

Nutritional Information

Sweet potato casserole with marshmallows is not only indulgent but also contains nutrients from its core ingredient. Sweet potatoes are rich in vitamin A, fiber, and potassium, supporting vision, digestion, and overall health. Marshmallows primarily contribute sugar, so moderation is key for balanced meals.

Approximate nutritional values per serving (1 cup):

The nutritional profile highlights that while this casserole is a treat, it also provides important vitamins and minerals that contribute to a wholesome holiday meal.

Serving Suggestions

Serving sweet potato casserole with marshmallows can be both traditional and creative. Pair it with roasted turkey, glazed ham, or baked chicken for a hearty holiday spread. For a vegetarian-friendly menu, it complements roasted vegetables and grain-based dishes such as wild rice pilaf.

Presentation matters: serve in a shallow casserole dish to highlight the toasted marshmallow layer. Adding a sprinkle of chopped pecans or a dusting of cinnamon before serving enhances both visual appeal and flavor. Leftovers can be gently reheated in the oven at 300 degrees Fahrenheit to preserve texture and warmth.

This casserole also works as a standalone side for casual dinners or potlucks, offering a sweet contrast to savory main dishes. Combining the creamy sweet potatoes with the caramelized marshmallow topping creates a universally loved dish.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make sweet potato casserole ahead of time?
Yes. Prepare the sweet potato mash and place it in the baking dish. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate up to 24 hours. Add marshmallows and bake before serving.

Can I use canned sweet potatoes?
Canned sweet potatoes are a convenient alternative. Drain well, mash, and follow the same recipe. Fresh sweet potatoes typically offer a richer flavor.

How do I prevent marshmallows from burning?
Keep an eye on the casserole during the last 5 minutes of baking. If the marshmallows brown too quickly, cover loosely with foil to prevent burning while the sweet potatoes continue to heat.

Is it possible to make this gluten-free?
Absolutely. The standard recipe contains no gluten, making it naturally gluten-free. Ensure any additional toppings or ingredients are also certified gluten-free.

Can I freeze sweet potato casserole with marshmallows?
Yes. Assemble the mash without marshmallows and freeze in an airtight container. Thaw in the refrigerator and add marshmallows before baking.

Conclusion

Sweet potato casserole with marshmallows is more than a side dish; it is a celebration of flavor, warmth, and comfort. Each bite combines creamy sweet potatoes, aromatic spices, and a sweet, golden marshmallow topping that melts in the mouth. Its adaptability allows for creative variations while maintaining the essence of tradition.