This classic Sweet Potato Casserole with Marshmallows is the perfect balance of creamy, sweet, and crunchy. Learn how to make this Southern-inspired holiday side dish everyone will love!
🧡 Why You’ll Love This Sweet Potato Casserole
There’s something magical about a sweet potato casserole topped with gooey marshmallows. The creamy sweet potatoes, warm spices, and golden-brown topping make it the star of any holiday table — from Thanksgiving to Christmas.
It’s nostalgic, crowd-pleasing, and surprisingly easy to make from scratch!
🥘 Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Sweet Potato Base:
- 4 large sweet potatoes (about 3 pounds)
- ½ cup brown sugar
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup melted butter
- ½ cup milk (whole or 2%)
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon nutmeg
For the Topping:
- 2 cups mini marshmallows
- Optional: ½ cup chopped pecans or a brown sugar streusel for extra crunch
🔥 Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Sweet Potatoes
Peel and cube sweet potatoes. Boil them in salted water for about 15–20 minutes, or until fork-tender. Drain well.
Step 2: Mash and Mix
In a large bowl, mash the sweet potatoes until smooth. Add brown sugar, granulated sugar, melted butter, milk, eggs, vanilla, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Stir until fully combined.
Step 3: Assemble the Casserole
Spread the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Smooth the top with a spatula.
Step 4: Add the Marshmallows
Sprinkle mini marshmallows evenly across the top. (For a little twist, mix in chopped pecans for added crunch.)
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20–25 minutes, or until the marshmallows are golden brown and slightly toasted.
🧂 Tips for the Best Sweet Potato Casserole
- Make it ahead: Assemble up to 2 days in advance (without the marshmallows). Add them just before baking.
- Add a crumble topping: Mix ½ cup flour, ½ cup brown sugar, ¼ cup butter, and ½ cup chopped pecans for a streusel-style finish.
- For extra flavor: Add a dash of orange zest or a splash of bourbon for a Southern twist.
🍽️ How to Serve It
Serve warm alongside your roast turkey, glazed ham, or green bean casserole. The sweetness pairs beautifully with savory holiday dishes.
🧊 Storage & Reheating
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Reheat: Warm in the oven at 350°F until heated through (about 15 minutes).
- Freeze: You can freeze the mashed sweet potato base (without marshmallows) for up to 3 months.
⭐ FAQs
Can I use canned sweet potatoes?
Yes! Drain them well before mashing. The flavor is slightly different but still delicious.
Can I use large marshmallows?
Absolutely. Just cut them in half and watch closely — they toast quickly!
Can this be made vegan?
Yes! Use plant-based butter, almond milk, and vegan marshmallows.
❤️ Final Thoughts
This Sweet Potato Casserole with Marshmallows is more than a side dish — it’s a warm hug on a plate. Whether you grew up with this classic or are trying it for the first time, it’s guaranteed to bring smiles around your table.
So preheat that oven, grab some sweet potatoes, and get ready to create holiday magic in every bite.