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Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe Easy Cozy Thanksgiving Side with Toasted Marshmallows

sweet potato casserole - featured image

A cozy sweet potato casserole topped with toasted mini marshmallows, perfect for Thanksgiving or any holiday gathering. This easy recipe combines creamy mashed sweet potatoes with warming spices and a gooey, golden marshmallow topping.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 large sweet potatoes (about 3 pounds / 1.4 kg), peeled and chopped
  • 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
  • ½ cup packed brown sugar (light or dark)
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • ¼ cup milk (whole milk preferred, or any dairy/plant-based milk)
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • 2 cups mini marshmallows (about 120 grams)
  • Optional: chopped pecans or walnuts for crunch
  • Optional: a pinch of ground ginger for extra spice kick

Instructions

  1. Peel and chop 4 large sweet potatoes into roughly 2-inch chunks.
  2. Place the chopped sweet potatoes in a large pot and cover with cold water. Add a pinch of salt and bring to a boil over medium-high heat. Reduce heat and simmer until fork-tender, about 15-20 minutes. Drain well and return to the pot to dry out for a minute or two on low heat.
  3. Using a potato masher or ricer, mash the sweet potatoes until smooth and creamy. Avoid over-mashing to prevent a gluey texture.
  4. Stir in 6 tablespoons softened unsalted butter, ½ cup packed brown sugar, 1 teaspoon cinnamon, ¼ teaspoon nutmeg, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, ¼ cup milk, and ½ teaspoon salt. Mix gently until fully incorporated and smooth. Adjust sugar or spices to taste.
  5. Spread the mashed sweet potato mixture evenly into an 8×8 inch baking dish, smoothing the top with a spatula.
  6. Sprinkle 2 cups mini marshmallows evenly over the top.
  7. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the casserole uncovered for about 15 minutes until marshmallows start melting and turning golden.
  8. Switch oven to broil for 2-4 minutes to toast the marshmallows to golden perfection. Watch closely to avoid burning.
  9. Let the casserole cool for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

Do not overcook sweet potatoes to avoid mushy texture. Watch marshmallows closely under broiler to prevent burning. Mini marshmallows toast more evenly than large ones. You can prepare mashed sweet potatoes a day ahead and add marshmallows just before baking. For dairy-free, substitute butter with coconut oil and milk with plant-based milk. Use vegan marshmallows for a vegan version.

Nutrition

Keywords: sweet potato casserole, Thanksgiving side, toasted marshmallows, holiday recipe, easy casserole, cozy side dish