This sweet potato casserole is like a warm hug on a plate! With its creamy sweet potatoes and crunchy topping, it’s a fun twist on a classic dish that everyone loves.
I can’t resist the sweet crunch on top, and it always gets smiles at dinner. Plus, it’s super easy to make—just mash, mix, and bake! So good, you’ll want seconds!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Sweet Potatoes: These are the star of the dish. Make sure to use firm, vibrant sweet potatoes for the best flavor. If you’re short on time, canned sweet potatoes can work, but you’ll miss the fresh taste!
Granulated Sugar: Regular sugar gives a great sweetness. For a healthier option, you could use brown sugar or maple syrup. They add a different depth of flavor that pairs nicely with sweet potatoes.
Butter: Unsalted butter is best for controlling salt levels. If you prefer a dairy-free version, you can substitute with coconut oil or a vegan butter blend, which also adds a subtle flavor.
Marshmallows: Mini marshmallows are traditional for topping. If you want something different, try pecans or crushed graham crackers for a nutty or crunchy twist. Or use vegan marshmallows for a plant-based option!
How Do You Get Perfectly Mashed Sweet Potatoes?
The key to perfect mashed sweet potatoes is cooking them just right! Here’s how to get them creamy and smooth:
- Boil sweet potatoes whole with the skin on—this keeps moisture in. Once tender (20-25 minutes), let them cool slightly, then peel and mash.
- Add butter and other wet ingredients while they’re still warm to get the smoothest texture.
- Mix until creamy—avoid over-mixing to keep them light and fluffy!
With these tips, you’ll have a delicious sweet potato casserole that’s sure to be a hit! Enjoy serving it at your next gathering.
Sweet Potato Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 cups mashed sweet potatoes (about 4 large sweet potatoes)
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 cups mini marshmallows
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious sweet potato casserole requires about 15 minutes for preparation and 25-30 minutes for baking, making it ready in under an hour—perfect for any occasion!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your casserole will cook evenly and turn out just right.
2. Prepare the Sweet Potatoes:
Peel the sweet potatoes and chop them into chunks. Place them in a pot and cover with water. Boil until tender, about 20-25 minutes. Once soft, drain the water and mash the sweet potatoes until they’re smooth.
3. Mix the Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed sweet potatoes with granulated sugar, eggs, melted butter, vanilla extract, milk, and salt. Stir everything together until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
4. Transfer to Baking Dish:
Pour the sweet potato mixture into a greased baking dish. Spread it out evenly, making a nice, smooth layer.
5. Add the Marshmallow Topping:
Evenly sprinkle the mini marshmallows over the top of the sweet potato mixture. This will create a delicious toasted topping as it bakes.
6. Bake:
Place the baking dish in your preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. You’re looking for the marshmallows to become golden brown and slightly toasted on top.
7. Cool and Serve:
After baking, carefully remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. This delicious sweet potato casserole is perfect for holidays or any comforting meal!
Enjoy the warm, creamy goodness topped with sweet, crunchy marshmallows!
Can I Use Canned Sweet Potatoes Instead of Fresh?
Yes, canned sweet potatoes can be used in this recipe. Just drain them well and mash before mixing with the other ingredients. This will save time, but fresh sweet potatoes often provide a better flavor and texture.
Can I Make This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the sweet potato mixture and place it in the baking dish a day in advance. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to bake, simply add the marshmallows and bake as directed!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or microwave individual portions.
Can I Customize the Topping?
Definitely! If you prefer a crunchy topping, you can replace the mini marshmallows with a mixture of crushed pecans or walnuts and brown sugar, or even use graham cracker crumbs for a twist.