A beloved classic, Sweet Potato Marshmallow Casserole is a staple at holiday tables. With its creamy mashed sweet potatoes, subtle hints of vanilla, and a blanket of golden, toasted marshmallows, this dish perfectly balances sweet and savory flavors in every bite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- A nostalgic holiday favorite
- Sweet and savory flavor profile
- Creamy, rich texture
- Simple, wholesome ingredients
- Easy to prepare in advance
- Kid-friendly and crowd-pleasing
- Perfect for Thanksgiving or Christmas
- Beautiful presentation
- Naturally gluten-free
- Comfort food at its finest
ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
2 pounds fresh sweet potatoes
6 tablespoons granulated sugar
4 tablespoons (2 ounces) unsalted butter, melted
1/4 cup milk
2 large eggs
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon salt
3 cups mini marshmallows
directions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a sheet pan with foil and place sweet potatoes on it. Prick each potato with a fork.
- Bake sweet potatoes for 40–50 minutes, or until very soft and the skins begin to collapse. Remove from oven.
- Reduce oven temperature to 350°F (175°C) and let sweet potatoes cool for 20 minutes.
- In a large bowl, whisk together sugar, melted butter, milk, vanilla, and salt.
- Peel the sweet potatoes and add them to the bowl. Mash and stir to combine thoroughly. Mix in the eggs.
- Spread the mixture into an 8-inch square baking dish. Bake for 20 minutes.
- Remove from oven, scatter mini marshmallows over the top, and bake for an additional 5–10 minutes until marshmallows are golden brown.
- Serve warm and enjoy.
Servings and timing
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 55 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Servings: 6 servings
- Calories: Approximately 295 kcal per serving
Variations
- Add a pecan crumble topping instead of marshmallows
- Stir in a dash of cinnamon or nutmeg for extra warmth
- Use maple syrup instead of sugar for a deeper flavor
- Add a splash of orange juice or zest for brightness
- Make it dairy-free with plant-based butter and milk
- Mix in crushed pineapple for a tropical twist
storage/reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in a 350°F oven for 10–15 minutes or until warmed through. To keep the marshmallows toasted, reheat uncovered or briefly under the broiler. Avoid microwaving if you want to preserve the topping texture.
FAQs
Can I use canned sweet potatoes?
Yes, but make sure to drain and mash them well. Fresh sweet potatoes provide better texture and flavor.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely. Prepare the sweet potato mixture a day in advance and refrigerate. Add marshmallows and bake just before serving.
Can I freeze sweet potato casserole?
You can freeze it before adding marshmallows. Thaw overnight, then bake and add marshmallows just before serving.
What can I substitute for mini marshmallows?
Try a brown sugar and pecan streusel topping if you prefer something less sweet.
Is this dish gluten-free?
Yes, all ingredients are naturally gluten-free.
Can I make this without eggs?
Yes, you can use a flax egg or egg substitute. The texture may be slightly different.
What kind of milk should I use?
Whole milk is best, but you can use any milk or non-dairy alternative.
How do I keep the marshmallows from burning?
Keep an eye on them and bake for just 5–10 minutes until golden. You can also broil them briefly for a more toasted look.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, double all ingredients and bake in a 9×13-inch dish. Adjust baking time as needed.
What should I serve with this casserole?
It pairs well with roasted turkey, green beans, or stuffing.
Conclusion
Sweet Potato Marshmallow Casserole is the ultimate comfort food side dish, perfect for the holidays or any special gathering. Its creamy, buttery base and sweet toasted topping make it a favorite that brings warmth and joy to every table.
Print
Sweet Potato Marshmallow Casserole
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A classic holiday favorite, this Sweet Potato Marshmallow Casserole features creamy mashed sweet potatoes blended with butter, vanilla, and eggs, topped with golden-toasted mini marshmallows for a perfect sweet-savory side.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds fresh sweet potatoes
- 6 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 4 tablespoons (2 ounces) unsalted butter, melted
- 1/4 cup milk
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 3 cups mini marshmallows
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a sheet pan with foil and place sweet potatoes on it. Prick each potato with a fork.
- Bake sweet potatoes for 40–50 minutes, or until very soft and the skins begin to collapse. Remove from oven.
- Reduce oven temperature to 350°F (175°C) and let sweet potatoes cool for 20 minutes.
- In a large bowl, whisk together sugar, melted butter, milk, vanilla, and salt.
- Peel the sweet potatoes and add them to the bowl. Mash and stir to combine thoroughly. Mix in the eggs.
- Spread the mixture into an 8-inch square baking dish. Bake for 20 minutes.
- Remove from oven, scatter mini marshmallows over the top, and bake for an additional 5–10 minutes until marshmallows are golden brown.
- Serve warm and enjoy.
Notes
- Make ahead by preparing the sweet potato base and refrigerating until ready to bake.
- Use canned sweet potatoes for convenience, but drain them well.
- Top with chopped pecans before marshmallows for added crunch.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 295
- Sugar: 22g
- Sodium: 220mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 49g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 70mg