Southern Sweet Potato Casserole with Marshmallows

When it comes to comfort food, few dishes are as satisfying and heartwarming as a classic Southern Sweet Potato Casserole. This recipe has become a staple at holiday tables, family gatherings, and Sunday dinners across the South—and for good reason. The rich, velvety sweet potatoes combined with a hint of sweetness from brown sugar and vanilla make it an irresistible side dish. Topped with toasted marshmallows, it’s an unforgettable treat that strikes the perfect balance between savory and sweet.

Whether you’re preparing it for a Thanksgiving feast, a holiday dinner, or simply as a cozy meal for your family, Easy Southern Sweet Potato Casserole with Marshmallows is bound to impress. The comforting, smooth texture of mashed sweet potatoes, enhanced by a subtle cinnamon and nutmeg spice, creates a warm and inviting dish that will have everyone coming back for seconds. What makes this casserole even better is that it’s simple to make, and it doesn’t require any complicated steps or exotic ingredients. You can easily create this crowd-pleasing dish in no time at all.

If you’re craving the perfect sweet and savory side dish that will complement any meal, this Southern sweet potato casserole is your go-to. So, let’s dive into how you can make this delicious dish that is sure to be a hit with everyone at the table.

What You’ll Need

To prepare this delectable casserole, here’s what you’ll need. These ingredients are easy to find, and most of them are likely already in your kitchen.

For the Casserole:

• 4 large sweet potatoes (about 4 cups mashed)
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1/2 cup milk (you can use whole milk or a non-dairy option like almond or oat milk)
• 1/2 cup brown sugar (light or dark)
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 eggs, beaten
• 1/2 teaspoon salt

For the Topping:

• 2 cups mini marshmallows (for that perfectly sweet and golden brown topping)
• 1/4 cup chopped pecans (optional, but adds great texture and flavor)

This recipe is designed to serve 8-10 people, but you can easily adjust the quantities depending on the number of servings needed. The combination of these ingredients will create the perfect base for your casserole with just the right balance of sweetness and spice.

How to Make

Now that you have all your ingredients ready, it’s time to get started on this delicious Southern Sweet Potato Casserole with Marshmallows. Follow these steps for a foolproof recipe that will leave everyone asking for more.

Step 1: Prep the Sweet Potatoes

Start by peeling the sweet potatoes and cutting them into chunks. This will make them easier to cook and mash. Place the cut sweet potatoes into a large pot, cover them with water, and bring to a boil. Cook the sweet potatoes for about 15-20 minutes, or until they’re fork-tender. Once cooked, drain the water and let the sweet potatoes cool slightly.

Step 2: Mash the Sweet Potatoes

Using a potato masher or hand mixer, mash the cooked sweet potatoes until smooth. Make sure there are no large chunks left. For an extra creamy texture, you can also use a food processor.

Step 3: Mix the Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the mashed sweet potatoes with the melted butter, milk, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, vanilla extract, beaten eggs, and salt. Stir well until all ingredients are fully incorporated. The mixture should be smooth and creamy.

Step 4: Transfer to a Baking Dish

Once the sweet potato mixture is ready, transfer it to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Smooth the top of the casserole evenly with a spatula.

Step 5: Add the Marshmallows

Now for the fun part! Evenly spread the mini marshmallows over the top of the casserole. If you like a bit of crunch, you can sprinkle chopped pecans over the marshmallows before baking. This will give your casserole a beautiful texture contrast with the soft and fluffy sweet potatoes.

Step 6: Bake the Casserole

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake the casserole for 25-30 minutes, or until the marshmallows are golden brown and slightly toasted. Keep an eye on it toward the end of the baking time to prevent the marshmallows from burning. The sweet potato casserole should be bubbling and deliciously golden when it’s ready to serve.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. The marshmallow topping will set, giving it a beautiful golden color and a slightly crispy texture. Your Easy Southern Sweet Potato Casserole with Marshmallows is now ready to be enjoyed!

Serving and Storage Tips

This casserole is perfect for serving at family dinners, holiday gatherings, or as a side dish to complement your main course. Here are a few tips on how to serve and store your casserole:

Serving Tips:

• Serve the casserole warm. The contrast between the warm, creamy sweet potato filling and the gooey, toasted marshmallow topping is what makes this dish so irresistible.
• Garnish with a few extra chopped pecans or a light dusting of cinnamon for added flair. This will not only make the casserole more visually appealing but will also add a subtle flavor boost.
• This casserole pairs well with a variety of meats, especially roasted turkey, ham, or grilled chicken. It’s also a fantastic side for a vegetarian meal.

Storage Tips:

• Refrigerating: If you have leftovers, allow the casserole to cool completely before covering and refrigerating. It will keep in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: You can freeze the casserole before baking. After preparing the sweet potato mixture, transfer it to a freezer-safe dish, cover tightly with foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to bake, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator, top with marshmallows, and bake as usual.
• Reheating: To reheat, place the casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until it’s warmed through. If you’re reheating leftovers, you may need to give the marshmallows a quick broil for a minute or two to restore their golden, crispy texture.

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Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing a beloved dish like Southern Sweet Potato Casserole with Marshmallows, it’s easy to make a few mistakes. Here are some common pitfalls to avoid to ensure your casserole turns out perfectly every time.

1. Under-cooking the Sweet Potatoes

One of the most important steps in this recipe is ensuring the sweet potatoes are fully cooked and tender before mashing. If you undercook them, you’ll end up with a chunky, uneven texture that doesn’t blend well into the creamy filling. Be sure to cook your sweet potatoes until they are fork-tender. You can check this by inserting a fork into the pieces—if it easily slides through, they are ready.

2. Not Mashing the Potatoes Well Enough

Another mistake is not properly mashing the sweet potatoes. You want a smooth, creamy texture for the casserole. If you leave too many chunks, the final dish will lack that velvety consistency that makes this casserole so delightful. Using a potato masher, food processor, or hand mixer will help you achieve the perfect texture.

3. Using Warm or Room Temperature Butter

It’s crucial that the butter is melted before being mixed into the sweet potatoes. If you use room temperature butter, it may not fully incorporate into the potatoes, causing an uneven texture. Always melt the butter first to achieve a smooth, creamy mixture.

4. Overbaking the Marshmallows

While golden, toasted marshmallows are the star of this dish, overbaking them can cause them to burn. Keep a close eye on the casserole as it bakes, especially towards the end. Marshmallows can brown quickly, so if you see them getting too dark, you may want to take the casserole out earlier than the suggested time.

5. Not Adjusting the Sweetness

Sweet potatoes naturally have a lot of sweetness, but the brown sugar and marshmallows add even more. If you prefer a less sweet casserole, feel free to reduce the amount of sugar. Taste the sweet potato mixture before adding the marshmallows to ensure it’s to your liking.

6. Not Letting the Casserole Cool Before Serving

While it’s tempting to dig in right away, the casserole needs a few minutes to set after baking. Letting it cool slightly will allow the marshmallows to firm up a bit, making it easier to slice and serve. Additionally, it will give you a chance to avoid burning your mouth on piping hot marshmallows!

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Tips and Tricks

Want to elevate your Southern Sweet Potato Casserole with Marshmallows and make it even more irresistible? Check out these expert tips and tricks that can help you take this dish to the next level.

1. Use Brown Butter

For an extra layer of flavor, consider using brown butter instead of regular melted butter. Simply melt the butter in a pan and cook it over medium heat until it turns golden brown and develops a nutty aroma. This subtle change will add richness and depth to the dish, making your casserole stand out even more.

2. Add a Dash of Maple Syrup

If you’re looking for an extra hint of sweetness and a unique twist, add a tablespoon or two of maple syrup to the mashed sweet potatoes. This will give your casserole a warm, autumnal flavor that pairs beautifully with the marshmallows and cinnamon.

3. Spice it Up with a Touch of Cayenne

While this casserole is traditionally sweet, adding just a pinch of cayenne pepper can give it a subtle kick. The heat from the cayenne balances the sweetness of the dish and gives it an exciting depth of flavor. Be sure to start with a small amount—remember, a little goes a long way!

4. Use Freshly Ground Cinnamon and Nutmeg

For the best flavor, try using freshly ground cinnamon and nutmeg. Pre-ground spices can lose their flavor over time, so grinding them yourself ensures you get the fullest, most vibrant taste. The warmth of these spices will complement the sweetness of the sweet potatoes perfectly.

5. Top with Chopped Pecans or Walnuts

If you like a bit of crunch, add some chopped pecans or walnuts on top of the marshmallows before baking. The nuts will toast as the casserole bakes, adding a lovely texture and a hint of nutty flavor to balance the creamy sweet potatoes and gooey marshmallows.

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Suggestions

Southern Sweet Potato Casserole with Marshmallows is a versatile dish that pairs wonderfully with a variety of meals and can be easily customized to suit your preferences. Here are a few suggestions on how you can adapt or serve this casserole:

1. Pair with a Protein

While this casserole is traditionally served as a side dish, it can also be a great complement to a main protein. It pairs beautifully with roasted chicken, baked ham, or even grilled steaks. The sweet, creamy texture of the casserole is the perfect counterbalance to the savory flavors of your main dish. For a festive dinner, serve it alongside turkey or roast beef for a complete meal.

2. Make It a Meal

If you’re looking for a more filling dish, consider adding a protein directly into the casserole. Cooked, crumbled sausage or chicken can be mixed into the sweet potato base, adding flavor and making it even more hearty. This is especially helpful for busy weeknights when you want a one-pot meal.

3. Add Vegetables for Extra Nutrients

For a more balanced side dish, you can add some vegetables to the casserole. Sautéed spinach or kale would blend seamlessly into the sweet potato mixture, adding color and nutrients without compromising the flavor. Just be sure to chop the greens finely to ensure they mix well with the other ingredients.

4. Make a Sweet Potato Pie Version

If you love the idea of sweet potato pie but want something a little easier to prepare, try turning this casserole into a pie version. Use a pie crust and fill it with the mashed sweet potato mixture. Bake as directed and top with marshmallows for that classic toasted topping. It’s a wonderful twist for the holidays or any special occasion.

5. Perfect for Potlucks

This casserole is an ideal dish for potlucks, holiday meals, or family gatherings. It’s easy to make in large quantities, and the combination of sweet potatoes and marshmallows always goes over well with a crowd. If you’re transporting it, bake it in a disposable foil pan to make cleanup easier.

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FAQ

Q: Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the sweet potato base up to a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to bake, add the marshmallows on top and bake as directed. This makes it a great option for holiday meals or busy weeknights when you want to minimize the work on the day of serving.

Q: Can I use canned sweet potatoes instead of fresh ones?

Yes, canned sweet potatoes can be used as a substitute for fresh ones. Be sure to drain them well to avoid excess liquid in the casserole. While fresh sweet potatoes provide a bit more texture and flavor, canned sweet potatoes can save you time and still produce a tasty dish.

Q: How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days. You can also freeze leftovers for up to 3 months. If freezing, be sure to wrap the casserole tightly with plastic wrap or foil before placing it in a freezer-safe container. Reheat in the oven or microwave until hot.

Q: Can I use regular marshmallows instead of mini ones?

Yes, you can use regular marshmallows if that’s what you have on hand. However, mini marshmallows tend to melt more evenly and give you that perfect toasted layer. If you’re using regular-sized marshmallows, be sure to watch them closely while baking to prevent burning.

Q: Can I reduce the sugar in this recipe?

Absolutely! If you prefer a less sweet casserole, you can reduce the amount of sugar. Start by cutting it in half and tasting the sweet potato mixture before baking. You can always add a bit more sugar or maple syrup to your liking.

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Conclusion

Easy Southern Sweet Potato Casserole with Marshmallows is a comforting, crowd-pleasing dish that brings a touch of Southern charm to any meal. Whether you’re making it for a special holiday dinner or a weeknight family gathering, its smooth and sweet flavor is sure to delight. The marshmallow topping adds a perfect balance of sweetness and texture, making it an irresistible addition to your recipe collection.

This dish not only satisfies your cravings for something warm and comforting, but it also offers endless opportunities for customization. You can adjust the sweetness, mix in extra veggies, or even turn it into a one-pot meal by adding protein. With simple ingredients and minimal prep time, it’s a recipe that anyone can whip up with ease.

Whether you serve it with a holiday feast or a casual dinner, this sweet potato casserole will become a staple in your kitchen. The combination of sweet potatoes and marshmallows will keep your guests coming back for more, making it a memorable dish every time you make it.

So, next time you’re planning a dinner or potluck, consider preparing this easy Southern sweet potato casserole—it’s sure to be the star of the show!

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