This Sweet Potato Casserole is a warm and cozy side dish. It’s made with creamy sweet potatoes, sugar, and a crunchy topping that makes every bite a treat!
The best part? That crunchy topping is like a sweet surprise! I always love serving this at holiday gatherings, and it disappears faster than I can say “yum!” 😄
Making it is super easy—I just mash sweet potatoes, mix in a few ingredients, and bake! It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser at any meal.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Sweet Potatoes: Sweet potatoes are the star here! You want to use the orange-fleshed variety for that lovely sweetness and creaminess. If you’re out of sweet potatoes, you can swap in butternut squash, which adds a similar texture and taste.
Sugar: Granulated sugar gives the casserole its sweetness. If you’re looking for a healthier option, try using maple syrup or honey as a substitute. Just adjust the amount of milk slightly since these are liquids!
Eggs: Eggs help set the filling but can be left out for a vegan option. You could use flax eggs—mix 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed with 3 tablespoons of water for each egg. Let it sit for a few minutes before using it!
Milk: Regular milk works well, but you can easily use almond milk or oat milk for a dairy-free version. Just ensure that the milk you pick is unsweetened if you’re going that route.
Marshmallows: Mini marshmallows are classic, but you could replace them with vegan marshmallows if you’re avoiding animal products. You can also use a sprinkle of chopped chocolate for a unique twist!
How Do I Get My Sweet Potatoes Extra Creamy?
For the best texture, always use fresh, tender sweet potatoes. After boiling, mash them while they’re hot to ensure a creamy consistency. If you want an even smoother mix, use a hand mixer or a food processor. This may take a little extra time but is totally worth it!
- Boil until tender—don’t overcook as they can become watery.
- Mash while hot, ensuring no lumps survive!
- Mix ingredients in a large bowl until fully combined, ensuring everything blends well.
By doing these steps, you’ll achieve that velvety smooth casserole that everyone loves! Enjoy making it! 🍠
Sweet Potato Casserole with Marshmallow and Pecan Topping
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 cups mashed sweet potatoes (about 4 large sweet potatoes)
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/3 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 1/2 cups mini marshmallows
- 1 cup chopped pecans
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful Sweet Potato Casserole takes about 15 minutes to prepare and approximately 25-30 minutes to bake in the oven. From start to finish, expect to spend about 45-50 minutes until it’s ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This temperature is perfect for baking the casserole evenly and giving the marshmallows that lovely golden color.
2. Prepare the Sweet Potatoes:
Start by peeling and dicing your sweet potatoes into chunks. Place them in a pot of boiling water and let them cook for about 15-20 minutes until they’re tender. Once they’re soft, drain the water and mash them until smooth. Set aside to cool slightly.
3. Mix the Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed sweet potatoes, granulated sugar, eggs, milk, melted butter, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and salt. Use a whisk or electric mixer to blend everything together until it’s smooth and creamy!
4. Assemble the Casserole:
Pour your sweet potato mixture into the greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Spread it out evenly using a spatula.
5. Add the Toppings:
Evenly sprinkle the chopped pecans over the sweet potato layer. Then, top it all off with a generous layer of mini marshmallows for that delicious sweet contrast!
6. Bake to Perfection:
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes. Keep an eye on the casserole, and once the marshmallows are lightly browned and the casserole is hot, it’s ready to come out!
7. Cool and Serve:
Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before serving. This gives the flavors a chance to meld together. Serve warm as a cozy side dish at your next meal!
Enjoy this creamy, sweet, and crunchy delight as a perfect addition to your dinner table! It’s sure to be a hit. 😊
Can I Use Canned Sweet Potatoes Instead?
Absolutely! If you’re short on time, you can use canned sweet potatoes. Just make sure to drain them well and mash them before mixing with the other ingredients. It’ll save you some prep time!
Can I Make This Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the sweet potato mixture a day ahead. Just cover it tightly and refrigerate. When you’re ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before adding the toppings and baking as directed.
What Other Toppings Can I Use?
If you’re not a fan of marshmallows, consider topping with a crumble made from oats and brown sugar, or simply more nuts for added crunch. You could even add a sprinkle of chocolate chips for a sweet twist!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. You can reheat it in the microwave or bake in the oven until warmed through. Add a few extra marshmallows on top if you’d like to toast them again for added flavor!