Sweet Potato Casserole With Marshmallows Recipe

Sweet potato casserole with marshmallows is the quintessential dish that brings a comforting, nostalgic flavor to the holiday table. Creamy sweet potatoes, a hint of spice, and a blanket of toasty, golden marshmallows—this is the recipe that's sure to win over every guest, from the pickiest eater to the biggest food critic. Whether you're hosting Thanksgiving, a family gathering, or a potluck, this dish is a showstopper built for celebration.

In this recipe, we’ll walk you through the key steps to making a perfect sweet potato casserole topped with marshmallows. You'll also find tips on preparation and storage, ensuring it’s always as convenient as it is delicious.

Why Sweet Potato Casserole Is a Must-Have for Holidays

Sweet potato casserole has earned its reputation as a classic side dish for good reason. The natural sweetness of sweet potatoes combined with the gooey texture of marshmallows adds a unique element to any spread. Beyond its universally loved taste, this dish is incredibly easy to prepare, making it an ideal choice when juggling multiple holiday recipes.

Key Features of This Recipe

• Rich and Creamy Texture: Mashed sweet potatoes bring a buttery smooth base that contrasts beautifully with the crispy marshmallow topping.
• Balanced Sweetness: The flavors are subtle and thoughtfully balanced, with cinnamon and vanilla enhancing rather than overpowering the natural sweetness of the potatoes.
• Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Few dishes can evoke such widespread smiles—from kids who love marshmallows to adults nostalgic for holiday flavors.

Now, let's get into the recipe!

Ingredients

For the filling:

• 4 large sweet potatoes (about 4 lbs), peeled and cubed
• 1/3 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1/2 cup brown sugar (or adjust to taste)
• 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
• 1/2 cup whole milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
• A pinch of salt

For the topping:

• 2 cups mini marshmallows
• Optional extras (for adventurous cooks): Crushed pecans or granola for more texture

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray and set it aside.

2. Cook and Mash the Sweet Potatoes

Place the peeled, cubed sweet potatoes in a large pot. Fill with water until the potatoes are completely submerged and add a pinch of salt. Bring the water to a boil, then reduce to a simmer and cook for about 20 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender.

Drain the potatoes and return them to the warm pot. Mash them thoroughly using a potato masher or a hand mixer until smooth.

3. Prepare the Sweet Potato Mixture

Transfer the mashed sweet potatoes to a large mixing bowl. Stir in the melted butter, brown sugar, beaten eggs, milk, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg (if using), and salt. Mix until well combined and smooth.

4. Assemble the Casserole

Pour the sweet potato mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly. Smooth the top with the back of a spoon or spatula.

5. Add the Marshmallow Topping

Sprinkle the mini marshmallows evenly over the top of the sweet potato base. If desired, mix in crushed pecans or granola for some extra crunch around the edges.

6. Bake to Perfection

Bake the casserole in your preheated oven for 15–20 minutes, or until the marshmallows are perfectly melted and golden brown on top. Keep a close eye on them—marshmallows can brown quickly!

7. Serve and Enjoy

Remove from the oven and allow the dish to cool for 5–10 minutes before serving. This dish is best enjoyed warm, and it pairs beautifully with turkey, stuffing, and other holiday classics.

Tips for the Perfect Sweet Potato Casserole

• Prepare Ahead: To save time, you can prepare the mashed sweet potato filling a day in advance. Simply store it in the refrigerator, cover it, and add the marshmallows just before baking.
• Adjust the Sweetness: If you prefer a slightly less sweet dish, reduce the amount of brown sugar or substitute it with honey or maple syrup for a different flavor profile.
• Add Texture: For extra depth, try topping with crushed nuts alongside the marshmallows. Pecans and walnuts work particularly well.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

• Storage: Cover the casserole with plastic wrap or transfer leftovers to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave.
• Freezing: You can freeze the sweet potato base (without marshmallows) for up to 1 month. Add the topping fresh when ready to bake.

Why This Recipe Is a Crowd Favorite

This sweet potato casserole recipe strikes the perfect balance between tradition and taste. The marshmallow topping provides an irresistible contrast to the creamy, spiced filling, making it a memorable addition to any holiday meal. It’s a dish that evokes memories of family gatherings, laughter, and warm, comforting flavors.

Make Your Holiday Menu Shine

Sweet potato casserole with marshmallows is more than a recipe—it’s a celebration of flavor and tradition. Whether you're hosting a small family gathering or a large holiday feast, this dish is an irreplaceable centerpiece. Use this recipe as your guide, and get ready to delight your guests with one of the most cherished dishes of the season.

Looking for more festive dishes or tips on how to wow your guests? Stay tuned to our blog for more expert recipes and holiday inspiration.