Nothing says comfort like a warm, gooey Sweet Potato Casserole with Marshmallows fresh out of the oven. This classic Southern-inspired side dish perfectly blends rich mashed sweet potatoes, buttery brown sugar, crunchy pecans, and a golden layer of toasted marshmallows. Whether it’s Thanksgiving, Christmas, or a cozy family dinner, this casserole brings nostalgia, sweetness, and a touch of elegance to your holiday table.
In this recipe, we’ll explore every detail—from selecting the perfect sweet potatoes to achieving that irresistible golden marshmallow topping—so your casserole turns out as beautiful and delicious as the one you see above.
Let’s dig in!
A Cozy Holiday Classic
The Sweet Potato Casserole with Marshmallows has been a cherished holiday tradition for generations. It’s the perfect marriage of savory and sweet, creamy and crunchy, comfort and celebration. Each bite melts in your mouth—the silky sweet potatoes complemented by buttery brown sugar pecans and those perfectly golden, fluffy marshmallows on top.
Originally introduced in American cookbooks in the early 1900s, this dish became a staple during the holidays for its balance of flavors and ease of preparation. It’s one of those rare recipes that feels like dessert but earns its place next to the turkey and stuffing.
Imagine it warm out of the oven—the marshmallows gently toasted, the pecan crumble caramelized, and the sweet potato layer rich and buttery. It’s not just a side dish; it’s a spoonful of fall comfort in every bite.
Why You’ll Love This Sweet Potato Casserole
Here’s why this casserole is bound to be the star of your table:
- Incredibly Easy to Make: No fancy equipment needed—just a pot, bowl, and baking dish.
- Perfectly Balanced Flavors: Sweet, buttery, nutty, and lightly spiced for that cozy fall vibe.
- Crowd Favorite: Even those who claim not to like sweet potatoes will be asking for seconds.
- Versatile: Great as a side dish or a dessert alternative for Thanksgiving.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Can be prepped the day before and baked fresh before serving.
This casserole combines nostalgia and simplicity, creating a dish that speaks directly to the heart (and the stomach).
Ingredients Breakdown and Their Role
To make this casserole a showstopper, let’s understand each component and what it brings to the dish.
Sweet Potato Base
- Sweet Potatoes: Naturally creamy and sweet, they form the base of the dish. Choose fresh, firm, orange-fleshed potatoes.
- Unsalted Butter: Adds richness and smoothness to the mash.
- Brown Sugar: Deepens the caramel flavor and enhances the natural sweetness.
- Cinnamon & Nutmeg: Infuse warmth and spice, creating that signature fall aroma.
- Vanilla Extract: Adds balance and enhances the overall flavor profile.
- Salt: Rounds out the sweetness for a more complex taste.
Pecan Crumble Topping
- Brown Sugar & Butter: Combine to create a golden, slightly caramelized texture.
- Flour: Helps bind the crumble for a perfect crispy topping.
- Pecans: Offer crunch and a toasty, nutty flavor that contrasts beautifully with the soft potatoes.
Marshmallow Topping
- Mini Marshmallows: The finishing touch—gooey, golden, and nostalgic. They create a stunning presentation and irresistible sweetness.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Perfection
Step 1: Boil the Sweet Potatoes
Peel and chop four large sweet potatoes into chunks and boil for 15–20 minutes until fork-tender. Drain and return them to the pan.
Step 2: Mash Until Silky Smooth
Mash while still hot using a potato masher or electric mixer. Add melted butter, brown sugar, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and vanilla extract. Stir until everything is creamy and fully combined.
Step 3: Prepare the Pecan Topping
In a bowl, mix melted butter, brown sugar, flour, salt, and chopped pecans until crumbly. This buttery topping adds the perfect crunch to balance the soft filling.
Step 4: Assemble the Layers
Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread the mashed sweet potato base evenly, then sprinkle the pecan crumble mixture over the top. Finally, cover everything with an even layer of mini marshmallows.
Step 5: Bake to Golden Perfection
Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25–35 minutes until the casserole is bubbly and the marshmallows are golden brown. Keep an eye on it—those marshmallows can go from toasted to burnt quickly!
Step 6: Cool Slightly and Serve
Allow it to cool for 10–15 minutes before serving. The layers will firm up slightly, and the flavors will meld beautifully.
The Secret to Creamy Sweet Potatoes
The foundation of this dish lies in the texture of your sweet potatoes. You want them silky smooth—not grainy or watery. Here’s how to get it perfect every time: