Sweet Potato Casserole with Marshmallows and Pecans is a classic dish that many people love. It is warm, sweet, and creamy, making it a perfect addition to any meal, especially during the holidays. This casserole brings together the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with the gooey goodness of mini marshmallows and the crunch of pecans. It is a comforting dish that can be enjoyed by everyone.
This recipe is simple, and it only uses a few key ingredients. You can easily prepare it ahead of time, which makes it even more convenient. As you follow this guide, you will learn how to make this delicious casserole step by step. Let’s dive deeper into why this recipe is so special and how you can prepare it at home.
WHY YOU WILL LOVE THIS RECIPE
This Sweet Potato Casserole is not just any dish. Here are some reasons why you will love making it:
- Delicious Flavor: The sweet potatoes provide a warm sweetness, and the toasted marshmallows give a delightful contrast. The pecans add a nice crunch that enhances the texture of the dish.
- Simple Ingredients: You only need a few ingredients to make this casserole. Most of the items you might already have at home. This makes it easy to prepare.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s Thanksgiving, Christmas, or a family gathering, this dish will be a showstopper. It’s an excellent way to impress your guests.
- Comfort Food: With each bite, you’ll feel cozy and satisfied. This dish is the essence of comfort food and is great for warming you up on a chilly day.
- Versatile: You can adjust and add your favorite nuts or toppings. It’s a great base recipe that allows for creativity.
Now that you understand why this casserole is such a hit, let’s learn how to make it.
HOW TO MAKE Sweet Potato Casserole with Marshmallows and Pecans
Making Sweet Potato Casserole with Marshmallows and Pecans is fun and easy. You will enjoy the cooking process and the delicious result.
EQUIPMENT NEEDED
Before you start cooking, gather these items:
- A large mixing bowl
- A baking dish (9×13 inches works well)
- A mixing spoon
- Measuring cups and spoons
- A blender or potato masher (for the sweet potatoes)
- An oven
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 cups mashed sweet potatoes
- 1 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 cup butter, melted
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup pecans, chopped
- 2 cups mini marshmallows
STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS
- Preheat the oven: Set the temperature to 350°F (175°C) so it’s ready when you need it.
- Mix the ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the mashed sweet potatoes, sugar, milk, melted butter, beaten eggs, and vanilla extract. Stir everything together thoroughly until the mixture is smooth.
- Pour into the baking dish: Take a greased baking dish and pour the sweet potato mixture into it. Spread it evenly.
- Prepare the marshmallow-pecan topping: In a separate bowl, mix the chopped pecans with half of the mini marshmallows. Sprinkle this mixture over the sweet potato layer in the baking dish.
- Bake the casserole: Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for 25 minutes.
- Add more marshmallows: After 25 minutes, take the casserole out and add the rest of the mini marshmallows on top.
- Finish baking: Return the dish to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the marshmallows on top are golden brown.
Once done, carefully remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Now it’s ready to be served!
HOW TO SERVE Sweet Potato Casserole with Marshmallows and Pecans
Serving your Sweet Potato Casserole is simple. You can scoop it directly from the baking dish into plates. It pairs wonderfully with savory main dishes like turkey or ham. The sweet flavor will balance out hearty and rich flavors, making it an ideal side dish for any meal.
STORAGE & FREEZING: Sweet Potato Casserole with Marshmallows and Pecans
If you need to store leftovers, keep them in the refrigerator. Place the casserole in an airtight container or cover it tightly with plastic wrap. It will stay good for about 3-5 days in the fridge.
If you want to freeze it, let it cool completely. Then, wrap it well in aluminum foil or place it in a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to three months. When you are ready to eat it, thaw it in the fridge overnight, and reheat it in the oven until warm.
SERVING SUGGESTIONS
Here are some ideas for serving your Sweet Potato Casserole:
- With Turkey: It’s a great side dish for Thanksgiving turkey.
- With Ham: This casserole pairs well with a glazed ham for Easter or any festive feast.
- As a Lunch Item: You can have it with a mixed green salad for a wholesome lunch.
- For Breakfast: Enjoy it alone or paired with a smoothie for a delightful breakfast.
Feel free to get creative with your serving choices!
VARIATIONS
You can make this casserole your own! Here are some variations you can try:
- Add Spices: Consider adding cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm spice flavor.
- Use Different Nuts: Instead of pecans, you can use walnuts or almonds for a different texture and taste.
- Make It Healthier: Substitute some of the sugar with honey or maple syrup.
- Sweet Potato and Pumpkin Mix: For a different twist, use half sweet potatoes and half canned pumpkin.
More Relevant Recipes
Looking for more delicious Thanksgiving sides to complete your holiday spread? Try our Southern Maple Sweet Potato Casserole for a different sweet potato twist, or explore our Cranberry Apple Twice Baked Sweet Potatoes for an elegant individual serving option. Round out your menu with Crispy Garlic Rosemary Roast Potatoes and Honey Glazed Carrots and Green Beans for a colorful, crowd-pleasing table.
FAQs
- Can I use canned sweet potatoes?
- Yes, you can use canned sweet potatoes. Just make sure to drain them well and mash them before mixing.
- Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
- Absolutely! You can prepare it a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Just bake it on the day you plan to serve it.
- Is it gluten-free?
- Yes, all the ingredients in this recipe are gluten-free, making it safe for those with gluten intolerance.
- What can I do if I don’t have mini marshmallows?
- You can use regular marshmallows cut into smaller pieces instead.
MAKE-AHEAD TIPS FOR Sweet Potato Casserole with Marshmallows and Pecans
Making this casserole ahead of time is a smart idea, especially during busy holiday seasons. Here are some tips:
- Prepare the Sweet Potatoes: You can boil and mash the sweet potatoes a day before. Store them in the fridge in an airtight container.
- Assemble the Casserole: You can mix all the ingredients and layer them in the baking dish ahead of time. Cover it well and place it in the fridge overnight.
- Bake Just Before Serving: The next day, just throw it in the oven to bake when you are ready to serve. This helps save time on the day of your gathering.
This Sweet Potato Casserole with Marshmallows and Pecans is truly a delightful dish. With its rich flavors and comforting texture, it’s a dish that will surely stand out. Enjoy making and sharing it with your friends and family!
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Sweet Potato Casserole with Marshmallows and Pecans
A warm, sweet, and creamy casserole featuring mashed sweet potatoes topped with gooey marshmallows and crunchy pecans, perfect for holidays.
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 4 cups mashed sweet potatoes
- 1 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 cup butter, melted
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup pecans, chopped
- 2 cups mini marshmallows
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, combine the mashed sweet potatoes, sugar, milk, melted butter, beaten eggs, and vanilla extract. Stir until smooth.
- Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish and spread evenly.
- In a separate bowl, mix chopped pecans with half of the mini marshmallows. Sprinkle over the sweet potato layer.
- Bake in the oven for 25 minutes.
- Add the remaining mini marshmallows on top and return to the oven, baking for an additional 10-15 minutes until golden brown.
- Remove from oven, let cool briefly, and serve.
Notes
This casserole can be prepared a day ahead and stored in the fridge. Reheat in the oven before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 30g
- Sodium: 210mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 60g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
Keywords: sweet potato, casserole, marshmallows, pecans, holiday recipe, comfort food
