Easy Sweet Potato Casserole

There is something so comforting about a classic sweet potato casserole bubbling away in the oven. This easy version lets the natural sweetness of the potatoes shine while a cloud of toasted marshmallows brings that nostalgic holiday feeling to any meal. With just a few pantry staples and little prep work this dish transforms into a creamy crowd pleaser perfect for gatherings or a simple Sunday dinner.

Every time I make this sweet potato casserole it disappears fast. The aroma alone draws people to the kitchen and even sweet potato skeptics come back for seconds.

Gather Your Ingredients

• Large sweet potatoes: provide the signature creamy base and natural sweetness Choose the deepest orange varieties for the best flavor and texture
• Light brown sugar: contributes a molasses richness and caramel undertones Go for fresh soft sugar to avoid hard lumps
• Butter: melted over the hot potatoes intensifies their silkiness I find unsalted butter works best here so you can control the seasoning
• Vanilla extract: brightens the entire dish and adds warmth Use pure vanilla for the fullest aroma
• Salt: brings out the sweetness Do not skip this as it makes all the other flavors pop
• Mini marshmallows: deliver the golden pillowy topping Use fresh marshmallows for the best melt and toast

How to Make It

Prep and Boil the Sweet Potatoes:

Peel your sweet potatoes and cut them into evenly sized large pieces so they cook at the same rate Place the chunks in a large saucepan and cover completely with cold water

Cook Until Tender:

Bring the water to a boil over high heat then lower the heat and simmer until the sweet potatoes are very soft You should be able to pierce them with a fork and have them fall apart with minimal pressure This usually takes about 15 minutes depending on your chunk size

Mash the Sweet Potatoes:

Drain the cooked sweet potatoes thoroughly then return them to the hot saucepan This steams off excess moisture Immediately mash the potatoes with a classic potato masher until completely smooth and lump free

Mix in Sweeteners and Flavorings:

Add the melted butter brown sugar vanilla extract and salt to the hot mashed potatoes Stir everything together until completely blended The heat will help the sugar dissolve and the butter to incorporate fully

Transfer and Top with Marshmallows:

Spoon the sweet potato mixture into a greased baking dish spreading it evenly Sprinkle the mini marshmallows in a generous layer over the top making sure every bite will get a bit of gooey topping

Bake to Perfection:

Bake the casserole in a hot oven until the marshmallows are puffed and golden brown on top Keep an eye out during the last few minutes so they do not burn This usually takes just about 10 minutes Place the dish under the broiler for a minute for extra toastiness if you like

Choosing deep orange sweet potatoes always reminds me of shopping Thanksgiving morning with my mom She would make sure we picked the very best ones and now it feels like a little tradition I keep going

Flavor Boosters

For extra flavor add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the potato mixture and try sprinkling chopped pecans under the marshmallow layer for a bit of crunch

Serving Suggestions

This casserole pairs beautifully with roasted turkey glazed ham or even just a big salad for a comforting vegetarian meal I have even served leftovers with breakfast eggs or as a sweet brunch side

Creative Twists

If you like a slightly less sweet version swap out half the brown sugar for maple syrup For a vegan twist use dairy free butter or coconut oil You can also use the mashed sweet potatoes in parfaits during summer for a cool treat

This recipe has become a family legend over time and is always requested on holidays Without fail even those who claimed to dislike marshmallows come back for seconds

Common Questions About This Recipe

→ Can I prepare sweet potato casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble it up to a day in advance and refrigerate. Add the marshmallows just before baking for best texture.

→ Can I use canned sweet potatoes instead of fresh?

Canned sweet potatoes can be used as a shortcut—just drain and mash them before mixing with other ingredients.

→ What can I substitute for mini marshmallows?

You can use regular marshmallows cut into smaller pieces or omit them for a less sweet topping.

→ How do I get a creamy texture?

Mash the sweet potatoes thoroughly and blend with melted butter and sugar for a smooth, creamy consistency.

→ Is this dish gluten-free?

Yes, when using gluten-free marshmallows and checking all ingredient labels, this dish is naturally gluten-free.