If you’re looking for a comforting, crowd-pleasing side dish, this Sweet Potato Casserole with Marshmallow Topping is a must-try! Perfect for holiday dinners or any family gathering, this dish combines the rich, natural sweetness of baked sweet potatoes with a light, fluffy marshmallow topping that will have everyone coming back for seconds. Whether you’re hosting a Thanksgiving feast or a cozy weekend meal, this sweet potato casserole will become a favorite on your dinner table.
Ingredients for Sweet Potato Casserole
For the Casserole:
- 4 medium-sized sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 1/2 cup milk (or use coconut milk for a dairy-free option)
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 egg (lightly beaten)
For the Marshmallow Topping:
- 3 cups mini marshmallows
- 1 tablespoon butter (optional, for added richness)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Sweet Potatoes
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large pot, bring water to a boil and add the cubed sweet potatoes. Boil the sweet potatoes until they are fork-tender, about 15-20 minutes. Drain the water and allow the potatoes to cool for a few minutes.
Step 2: Mash and Mix
Once the sweet potatoes are cool enough to handle, transfer them to a large mixing bowl and mash them with a potato masher until smooth. Stir in the milk, melted butter, brown sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and beaten egg. Mix everything together until well combined and creamy.
Step 3: Assemble the Casserole
Transfer the mashed sweet potato mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread it out evenly and smooth the top with a spatula.
Step 4: Add the Marshmallow Topping
Top the casserole with a generous layer of mini marshmallows. For an extra touch of flavor and richness, you can dot the marshmallows with small bits of butter, but this step is optional.
Step 5: Bake the Casserole
Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the marshmallows are golden brown and slightly puffed. Keep an eye on it to ensure the marshmallows don’t burn.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. This dish is best enjoyed warm, and it pairs wonderfully with roasted meats, savory stuffing, or any of your favorite holiday sides.
Tips for the Best Sweet Potato Casserole
- For a Crunchy Topping: If you prefer a bit of crunch, swap the marshmallows for a mixture of chopped pecans, brown sugar, and butter for a crunchy topping. You can also mix marshmallows with nuts for added texture.
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the casserole up to a day in advance. Simply assemble it (without the marshmallows), cover it tightly, and refrigerate. When ready to serve, top with marshmallows and bake as directed.
- Dairy-Free Option: To make this casserole dairy-free, use plant-based milk like almond or coconut milk, and substitute the butter with coconut oil or vegan butter.
Why You’ll Love This Sweet Potato Casserole?
This sweet potato casserole is the perfect blend of sweet and savory. The fluffy, velvety texture of the mashed sweet potatoes pairs beautifully with the toasted, gooey marshmallows on top, creating a mouthwatering contrast. It’s simple enough to make but fancy enough to impress your guests.
Whether you’re celebrating Thanksgiving or just craving a delicious, comforting dish, this Sweet Potato Casserole with Marshmallow Topping is sure to become a staple on your dinner table. It’s sweet, satisfying, and downright irresistible!
Perfect Pairings
- Roast Turkey: The creamy texture of the casserole is a perfect complement to a savory turkey.
- Green Beans Almondine: A fresh, crunchy green bean dish pairs nicely with the sweetness of the casserole.
- Cranberry Sauce: The tartness of cranberry sauce balances the richness of the sweet potatoes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Certainly! Here are some expanded and additional FAQs to enhance the content:
Can I Freeze Sweet Potato Casserole?
Yes, you can freeze sweet potato casserole for later use! To freeze, prepare the casserole (up until the baking step), and then cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Store it in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to bake, allow the casserole to thaw overnight in the refrigerator. Once thawed, top with marshmallows and bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 30 minutes or until heated through. Freezing may slightly affect the texture of the marshmallows, but the sweet potatoes will still be delicious.
Can I Make Sweet Potato Casserole in Advance?
Absolutely! Making sweet potato casserole in advance is a great time-saver, especially for holidays. You can assemble the entire casserole (without the marshmallows) and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days before baking. Just make sure to cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil. When you’re ready to serve, top with marshmallows and bake as directed. This will ensure that the casserole is fresh and ready to enjoy without the stress of last-minute preparation.
How to Make Sweet Potato Casserole?
Making sweet potato casserole is easy! Start by boiling cubed sweet potatoes until fork-tender. Then, mash them with butter, milk, brown sugar, vanilla, and spices like cinnamon and nutmeg. Add an egg to bind everything together. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish, top with marshmallows, and bake until golden and bubbly. The key to a delicious casserole is balancing the sweetness of the potatoes with a creamy texture and a crispy, golden marshmallow topping.
Can You Make Sweet Potato Casserole the Night Before?
Yes, making sweet potato casserole the night before is a great option, especially if you’re preparing for a big holiday meal. After assembling the casserole (without the marshmallow topping), cover it with plastic wrap or foil and store it in the refrigerator overnight. The next day, simply top it with marshmallows and bake as usual. This will save you time on the day of the meal, and the casserole will taste just as delicious!
Can You Make Sweet Potato Casserole Ahead of Time and Freeze It?
Yes, you can make sweet potato casserole ahead of time and freeze it. Prepare the casserole as you would for baking, but stop before adding the marshmallows. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or foil and freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to bake, let the casserole thaw in the refrigerator overnight. Once thawed, top with marshmallows and bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 30 minutes. Freezing may slightly change the texture of the marshmallows, but the sweet potatoes will still be creamy and delicious.
How Do You Reheat Leftover Sweet Potato Casserole?
To reheat leftover sweet potato casserole, simply place it in an oven-safe dish and cover it with foil. Heat it in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 15-20 minutes, or until warmed through. If the marshmallows have lost their puffiness, you can broil the casserole for a few minutes to restore some color and texture. Alternatively, you can microwave individual servings in short intervals, stirring between each, until heated through.
Can You Make Sweet Potato Casserole Without Marshmallows?
While marshmallows are a traditional topping for sweet potato casserole, you can absolutely make the casserole without them. Instead, consider using a nut topping, such as chopped pecans, walnuts, or almonds mixed with brown sugar and butter. This adds a delicious crunch and richness to the casserole. You could also try a streusel topping with oats and butter for a more textured finish.
How Long Does Sweet Potato Casserole Last?
Leftover sweet potato casserole will last for 3-4 days in the refrigerator if stored in an airtight container. If you’re unsure whether it will be consumed within that time frame, it’s a good idea to freeze it (as discussed above) to extend its shelf life. When properly stored, the casserole can last for up to 3 months in the freezer.
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Delicious Sweet Potato Casserole with Marshmallow Topping
Description
This classic Sweet Potato Casserole is the perfect balance of creamy, sweet, and savory flavors. Made with mashed sweet potatoes, butter, brown sugar, and vanilla, it’s baked to perfection and topped with a golden, gooey layer of marshmallows. Ideal for family gatherings, holiday feasts, or any special occasion, this dish is sure to be a crowd favorite with its rich flavor and comforting texture. A true seasonal treat that brings warmth and joy to any table!
