Ultimate Sweet Potato Casserole with Marshmallows: A Perfect Holiday Side Dish

There’s nothing quite like a classic Sweet Potato Casserole with Marshmallows to bring warmth and sweetness to your holiday table. This beloved dish combines creamy sweet potatoes, a crunchy pecan topping, and gooey toasted marshmallows for the ultimate comfort food experience. Whether you’re serving it for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any festive gathering, this recipe is guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through every step of making the best Sweet Potato Casserole with Marshmallows, along with expert tips, variations, and answers to frequently asked questions.

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Why You’ll Love This Sweet Potato Casserole with Marshmallows

✅ Creamy & Fluffy Sweet Potatoes – Perfectly spiced and sweetened for a rich, velvety texture.
✅ Crunchy Pecan Topping – Adds a buttery, nutty contrast to the soft filling.
✅ Golden Toasted Marshmallows – The star of the show, creating a gooey, caramelized layer.
✅ Make-Ahead Friendly – Prepare parts of the dish in advance for easy holiday cooking.
✅ Crowd-Pleasing Favorite – A must-have side dish that disappears fast!

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Ingredients for Sweet Potato Casserole with Marshmallows

To make this decadent Sweet Potato Casserole with Marshmallows, you’ll need the following ingredients:

For the Sweet Potato Filling

• 4 large sweet potatoes (about 9 cups), peeled and chopped
• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 cup brown sugar (light or dark)
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ¼ teaspoon nutmeg

For the Pecan Topping

• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• ⅓ cup brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 ¼ cups finely chopped pecans

For the Marshmallow Layer

• 10 oz mini marshmallows (or large marshmallows, halved)

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Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Sweet Potatoes

1. Peel and chop the sweet potatoes into large chunks.
2. Place them in a large pot, cover with water, and bring to a boil.
3. Cook for 15-20 minutes, or until fork-tender.
4. Drain well and return to the pot.

Step 2: Mash & Season the Sweet Potatoes

1. Use a potato masher to break down the sweet potatoes until smooth.
2. Add the melted butter, brown sugar, salt, cinnamon, vanilla, and nutmeg.
3. Mix until fully combined and creamy.

Step 3: Make the Pecan Topping

1. In a bowl, combine melted butter, brown sugar, flour, salt, and chopped pecans.
2. Stir until the mixture is crumbly and well mixed.

Step 4: Assemble the Casserole

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter.
3. Spread the sweet potato mixture evenly in the dish.
4. Sprinkle the pecan topping over the sweet potatoes.
5. Top with an even layer of mini marshmallows.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

1. Bake for 25-35 minutes, or until the marshmallows are golden brown and the filling is bubbly.
2. Watch closely during the last 10 minutes to prevent burning.

Step 6: Serve & Enjoy!

Let the casserole cool for 5-10 minutes before serving. The marshmallows will be gooey and delicious!

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The History and Cultural Significance of Sweet Potato Casserole with Marshmallows

Sweet potato casserole with marshmallows is a quintessential American dish, especially popular during Thanksgiving and Christmas. But how did this unique combination of sweet potatoes and marshmallows become a holiday staple?

Origins of Sweet Potato Casserole

Sweet potatoes have been cultivated for thousands of years, originating in Central and South America before spreading worldwide. In the United States, they became a Southern favorite due to their adaptability to warm climates. Early versions of sweet potato casseroles were simpler, often just mashed sweet potatoes with butter, sugar, and spices.

The idea of adding marshmallows came later. Marshmallows were once a luxury item, made from the sap of the marshmallow plant (Althaea officinalis) and reserved for the wealthy. By the early 20th century, marshmallows became more accessible thanks to mass production, and creative cooks began using them in desserts.

The Marshmallow Topping Trend

The first known recipe pairing sweet potatoes and marshmallows appeared in a 1917 cookbook by the Angelus Marshmallow Company as a marketing strategy. The dish gained popularity in the 1920s and 1930s, appearing in women’s magazines and community cookbooks. By the 1950s, it was a Thanksgiving staple, thanks to its ease of preparation and crowd-pleasing sweetness.

Cultural Significance

Today, sweet potato casserole with marshmallows is deeply embedded in American holiday traditions, particularly in the South. Some families prefer a pecan streusel topping instead, leading to friendly debates over which version is best. Regardless of preference, this dish symbolizes comfort, nostalgia, and celebration.

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 Health Benefits and Nutritional Value of Sweet Potatoes

While sweet potato casserole with marshmallows is undeniably indulgent, sweet potatoes themselves are packed with nutrients. Understanding their health benefits can help you enjoy this dish guilt-free (in moderation, of course!).

Rich in Vitamins and Minerals

Sweet potatoes are an excellent source of:

• Vitamin A (in the form of beta-carotene) – Supports vision, immune function, and skin health.
• Vitamin C – Boosts immunity and collagen production.
• Potassium – Helps regulate blood pressure.
• Fiber – Aids digestion and promotes gut health.

Antioxidant Properties

The orange flesh of sweet potatoes indicates high levels of beta-carotene, a powerful antioxidant that reduces inflammation and lowers the risk of chronic diseases. Purple sweet potatoes contain anthocyanins, which have additional heart and brain benefits.

Blood Sugar Regulation

Despite their sweetness, sweet potatoes have a lower glycemic index than white potatoes, meaning they cause a slower rise in blood sugar. Pairing them with protein or healthy fats (like pecans in this casserole) can further stabilize blood sugar levels.

Balancing Indulgence with Nutrition

While marshmallows and brown sugar add extra calories, you can make healthier tweaks:

• Use less sugar or substitute with maple syrup or honey.
• Opt for toasted coconut flakes instead of marshmallows for a lower-sugar option.
• Increase the pecan topping for added healthy fats and protein.

Even in its classic form, this dish provides more nutrients than many traditional holiday desserts!

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 Tips for Perfecting Your Sweet Potato Casserole with Marshmallows

A great sweet potato casserole balances creamy filling, crunchy topping, and perfectly toasted marshmallows. Here’s how to avoid common pitfalls and make the best version every time.

Choosing the Right Sweet Potatoes

• Variety Matters: Opt for orange-fleshed sweet potatoes (like Beauregard or Jewel) for natural sweetness and smooth texture.
• Avoid Overcooking: Boil just until fork-tender to prevent waterlogged potatoes.

Achieving the Perfect Texture

• Mash Thoroughly: Use a potato masher or hand mixer for a lump-free base.
• Creamy Add-Ins: For extra richness, stir in heavy cream, Greek yogurt, or coconut milk.

Mastering the Marshmallow Layer

• Mini vs. Large Marshmallows: Mini marshmallows distribute evenly, while large ones create dramatic, gooey pockets.
• Prevent Burning: Bake at 350°F (175°C) and tent with foil if browning too quickly.
• Broiler Trick: For extra toasting, broil for 1-2 minutes at the end (watch closely!).

Make-Ahead Strategies

• Prep Filling in Advance: Store mashed sweet potatoes (without toppings) in the fridge for up to 2 days.
• Freeze for Later: Assemble without marshmallows, freeze, then add marshmallows before baking.

Serving Suggestions

• Garnish: A sprinkle of cinnamon or chopped rosemary adds festive flair.
• Pairings: Serve alongside savory dishes like turkey or ham to balance the sweetness.

With these tips, your Sweet Potato Casserole with Marshmallows will be the star of the holiday table!

Expert Tips for the Best Sweet Potato Casserole with Marshmallows

🔹 Choose the Right Sweet Potatoes – Look for orange-fleshed sweet potatoes (like Beauregard or Jewel varieties) for the best flavor and texture.

🔹 Avoid Overcooking Marshmallows – Bake just until golden; they can burn quickly!

🔹 Make It Ahead – Prepare the sweet potato filling and pecan topping 1-2 days in advance, then assemble and bake before serving.

🔹 Add a Flavor Boost – A splash of orange juice or bourbon enhances the sweetness.

🔹 For Extra Crunch – Toast the pecans before adding them to the topping.

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Variations to Try

1. Brown Sugar Streusel Topping

Replace the pecan topping with a buttery streusel made from flour, brown sugar, oats, and cinnamon.

2. Maple Glazed Sweet Potatoes

Swap brown sugar for pure maple syrup for a deeper, caramelized flavor.

3. Nut-Free Option

Skip the pecans and use granola or crushed graham crackers for crunch.

4. Vegan & Dairy-Free Version

• Use plant-based butter and vegan marshmallows.
• Replace brown sugar with coconut sugar.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use canned sweet potatoes?

Yes, but fresh sweet potatoes have better flavor and texture. If using canned, drain well and reduce added sugar.

2. How do I prevent the marshmallows from burning?

• Bake at 350°F (175°C).
• Cover with foil for the first 20 minutes, then uncover to toast.

3. Can I freeze sweet potato casserole?

Yes, but freeze before adding marshmallows. Thaw, add marshmallows, and bake before serving.

4. What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?

Reheat in the oven at 300°F (150°C) until warm. Microwaving can make marshmallows too sticky.

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Nutrition Information (Per Serving)

Calories	418kcal
Carbohydrates	61g
Protein	3g
Fat	20g
Saturated Fat	8g
Cholesterol	30mg
Sodium	263mg
Fiber	3g
Sugar	41g

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Final Thoughts

This Sweet Potato Casserole with Marshmallows is the ultimate holiday side dish—creamy, crunchy, and irresistibly sweet. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or try a fun variation, it’s sure to become a family favorite.