Easy Sweet Potato Casserole (with Marshmallows): A Timeless Holiday Favorite

Few dishes spark nostalgia and comfort quite like sweet potato casserole with marshmallows. Served at holiday tables across generations, this beloved classic bridges the gap between side dish and dessert. With its creamy sweet potato base and soft, golden marshmallow topping, it’s a recipe that instantly signals celebration, warmth, and togetherness.

This easy sweet potato casserole recipe is designed for both seasoned holiday hosts and first-time cooks. It uses simple ingredients, straightforward steps, and delivers consistently rich, fluffy results. Whether prepared for Thanksgiving, Christmas, Easter, or a cozy Sunday dinner, this casserole earns its place as a must-have comfort dish.

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Why Sweet Potato Casserole Remains a Holiday Staple

Sweet potatoes have long been associated with comfort cooking. Naturally sweet, nutrient-rich, and versatile, they adapt beautifully to both savory and dessert-style preparations. The addition of marshmallows dates back to early 20th-century American cooking, when marshmallow companies promoted their use in baked dishes.

What makes this dish endure is its contrast of textures:

• Creamy, whipped sweet potato filling
• Lightly crisped marshmallows on top
• A warm, custard-like interior beneath

It’s indulgent without being complicated, and sweet without overwhelming the palate.

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Ingredients

(Use dashes as requested)

• Sweet potatoes, cooked and mashed
• Unsalted butter, melted
• Brown sugar
• Eggs
• Milk or evaporated milk
• Vanilla extract
• Ground cinnamon
• Salt
• Mini marshmallows

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a baking dish.
2. In a large bowl, combine mashed sweet potatoes, melted butter, and brown sugar.
3. Beat in eggs until smooth and well incorporated.
4. Add milk, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt. Mix until creamy.
5. Spread sweet potato mixture evenly into prepared baking dish.
6. Bake uncovered for 25 minutes until heated through.
7. Remove casserole from oven and evenly scatter marshmallows on top.
8. Return to oven and bake an additional 10–15 minutes until marshmallows are puffed and golden.
9. Cool slightly before serving.

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Tips for the Best Sweet Potato Casserole

• Use freshly cooked sweet potatoes for best flavor and texture.
• Mash thoroughly to avoid stringy texture.
• Avoid overbaking marshmallows to prevent excessive browning.
• For extra fluffiness, whip the mixture with a hand mixer.

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Flavor Variations and Customizations

Pecan Topping Alternative:
Replace marshmallows with a buttery brown sugar pecan crumble for a crunchy contrast.

Spiced Version:
Add nutmeg, ginger, or pumpkin spice for deeper warmth.

Maple Sweet Potato Casserole:
Substitute brown sugar with pure maple syrup for natural sweetness.

Dairy-Free Option:
Use plant-based butter and almond or oat milk.

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Make-Ahead and Storage Instructions

This casserole can be assembled a day in advance without the marshmallows. Cover and refrigerate, then bake and top with marshmallows just before serving.

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers for up to 4 days.
• Freezer: Freeze without marshmallows for up to 2 months.
• Reheating: Warm gently in the oven or microwave.

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Serving Suggestions

Sweet potato casserole pairs perfectly with:

• Roast turkey or chicken
• Glazed ham
• Green bean casserole
• Cranberry sauce

It also works beautifully as a stand-alone comfort dish for potlucks and family gatherings.

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Why This Recipe Works for SEO and Home Cooks

Targeting high-volume seasonal searches like sweet potato casserole with marshmallows and thanksgiving sweet potato dish, this recipe appeals to holiday planners while remaining evergreen for comfort food searches year-round.