Sweet Potato Casserole is a delightful dish that brings warmth and comfort to any table. With its rich flavors, especially from the candied pecans and golden marshmallows, this recipe is perfect for gatherings, holidays, or even a cozy family dinner. It’s oven-baked and can be prepared ahead of time, making it a go-to dish for those busy days. Let’s dive into this delicious recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Sweet Potato Casserole

This Sweet Potato Casserole is not just another side dish; it’s a culinary delight that combines sweet and savory in every bite. Here are some reasons why you’ll adore it:

It features a creamy texture that pairs wonderfully with crispy marshmallows.
Rich flavors from brown sugar and cinnamon create a comforting taste.
It’s a perfect sweet potato dish for Thanksgiving or any family gathering.
Easy to make, so perfect for even novice cooks.
Can be prepared in advance, making meal planning simple.
Offers healthy sweet potato casserole ideas with its nutritious ingredients.

Ingredients for Sweet Potato Casserole

Gather these items:

3 lbs. sweet potatoes
4 chicken bouillon cubes
3 teaspoons salt
5 tablespoons salted butter (at room temp)
1/3 cup brown sugar (packed)
½ teaspoon vanilla extract
½ teaspoon cinnamon
1 pinch nutmeg
¼ cup half and half
2 eggs (whisked)
1 cup pecans (roughly chopped)
¼ cup flour
4 tablespoons salted butter (melted)
2 tablespoons maple syrup
¼ teaspoon vanilla extract
1 ½ cups mini marshmallows (about ½ of a 10 oz. bag)

How to Make Sweet Potato Casserole Step-by-Step

Step 1: Preheat oven to 350° F.
Step 2: Peel the potatoes and cut into ¾-inch slices. Submerge them in cool water so that they’re covered by 1-2 inches. Gradually bring them to a gentle boil. Add the chicken bouillon cubes and salt once a gentle boil is reached. Cook for 20 minutes or until very fork tender. Drain and return them to the warm pot they cooked in.
Step 3: Add the butter and let it melt while the steam escapes from the potatoes for 5 minutes. Mash with a potato masher.
Step 4: Add the brown sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and nutmeg and stir to combine.
Step 5: Combine the whisked eggs and half and half and add it to the potatoes. Stir to combine, then mash a little more if desired, but leave some texture. Transfer to a lightly greased 9 x 13-inch baking dish.
Step 6: Combine the chopped pecans, flour, melted butter, syrup, and vanilla extract. Layer them evenly over the potatoes, then top with marshmallows.
Step 7: Bake, uncovered, for 20 minutes. From there, check on them every few minutes. Remove once the marshmallows begin to brown.
Step 8: Let it sit for 5-10 minutes prior to serving. This allows the filling to firm up and the topping to crisp even further.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Sweet Potato Casserole

Keep these in mind:

Use a mix of sweet potato varieties for more depth in flavor.
For a healthier twist, consider using less brown sugar or substituting with maple syrup.
Ensure that the sweet potatoes are well-cooked before mashing for a smoother texture.

Best Ways to Serve Sweet Potato Casserole

This dish pairs beautifully with:

Roasted turkey or chicken for a classic holiday meal.
As a side for a hearty beef dish, enhancing the meal with its sweetness.
Offer it alongside a fresh salad for a balanced dinner plate.

How to Store and Reheat Sweet Potato Casserole

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop it back into the oven at 350°F until warm, ensuring you cover it to retain moisture. This makes it ideal for meal prep and enjoying throughout the week.

Frequently Asked Questions About Sweet Potato Casserole

What is sweet potato casserole?

Sweet potato casserole is a baked dish made primarily from mashed sweet potatoes, often combined with ingredients like butter, sugar, and spices, topped with marshmallows or nuts, creating a sweet and savory blend.

Can I make sweet potato casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Just bake it before serving to enjoy its delicious flavors.

How do I avoid common mistakes with sweet potato casserole?

To avoid common pitfalls, make sure your sweet potatoes are well-cooked and avoid over-mixing to prevent a gummy texture. Follow the recipe closely for best results.

Variations of Sweet Potato Casserole You Can Try

Explore these creative twists:

For a vegan sweet potato casserole, replace eggs with flaxseed meal and use plant-based butter.
Try adding cream cheese for a richer texture.
Incorporate a layer of sweet potato pie spice for an aromatic twist.
Top with a walnut crumble instead of marshmallows for a different crunch.

Delicious Sweet Potato Casserole with Marshmallows - Sweet Potato Casserole - main visual representation

For more delicious recipes, check out our Thanksgiving Green Bean Casserole or Thanksgiving Cheese Board Ideas.

Delicious Sweet Potato Casserole with Marshmallows - Sweet Potato Casserole - additional detail

For more information on the health benefits of sweet potatoes, visit Healthline.