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If you’re searching for the ultimate comfort food to wow your family or friends at your next gathering, the Sweet Potato Casserole with Marshmallows and Pecans Recipe is an absolute must-try. This dish perfectly balances the sweet, velvety smoothness of mashed sweet potatoes with a delightful crunchy pecan streusel and a golden, toasted marshmallow topping that melts in your mouth. Every spoonful is a celebration of flavors and textures that make this casserole a beloved classic, especially during holiday seasons or cozy dinners. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it will quickly become a cherished favorite on your recipe rotation.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Sweet Potato Casserole with Marshmallows and Pecans Recipe lies in its simple, wholesome ingredients. Each component plays an important role: the sweet potatoes create a creamy base packed with natural sweetness, the spices add a warm depth, the pecans contribute a satisfying crunch, and the marshmallows bring that nostalgic, gooey finish that everyone loves.
- 2 pounds sweet potatoes: Cleaned and ready to be the smooth foundation of your casserole.
- 4 Tablespoons butter (softened or melted): Adds rich creaminess and helps bind the mashed sweet potatoes.
- 1/4 cup milk or cream: Keeps the mash silky and perfect for baking.
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Introduces a warm, aromatic spice that complements the sweetness.
- 1/4 cup brown sugar (packed): Enhances the natural sugars in the potatoes and balances the spices.
- 2 Tablespoons maple syrup: Adds a subtle, earthy sweetness and depth of flavor.
- 1 large egg: Gives structure and richness to the sweet potato mixture.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Infuses the mash with a gentle hint of floral sweetness.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Essential for balancing all the flavors.
- 1/2 cup butter (softened): Used in the streusel topping for indulgent, buttery crunch.
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour: Helps create that crumbly, irresistible topping texture.
- 1/2 cup brown sugar (packed): Works with flour and butter to form a sweet crust on top.
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Sprinkled in the streusel to echo the flavors in the mash.
- 3/4 cup pecans (chopped): Adds a toasty, nutty crunch for mouthwatering texture contrast.
- 2-3 cups miniature marshmallows: The crowning glory that toasts up golden and gooey.
How to Make Sweet Potato Casserole with Marshmallows and Pecans Recipe
Step 1: Prepare and cook the sweet potatoes
Begin by washing, peeling, and cutting the sweet potatoes into uniform 1-inch chunks. Place them in a large pot and cover with water, then bring to a rapid boil over high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium-high and let simmer until the sweet potatoes are fork-tender, which should take about 15-20 minutes. This step ensures your mashed sweet potatoes are silky smooth and perfectly cooked through.
Step 2: Mash the sweet potatoes with the mix-ins
Drain the sweet potatoes thoroughly and return them to the pot. Now is the time to add the softened butter, milk (or cream), cinnamon, brown sugar, maple syrup, egg, vanilla extract, and salt. Use a potato masher for a rustic texture or an electric mixer for an ultra-creamy mash. This blend infuses the mash with layers of flavor and luscious creaminess that’s utterly irresistible.
Step 3: Preheat your oven and prepare the baking dish
Set your oven to 375ºF and lightly grease a 3-quart baking dish with non-stick cooking spray. Greasing ensures the casserole won’t stick and makes serving a breeze.
Step 4: Spread the mashed sweet potatoes
Spoon the mashed sweet potatoes evenly into the prepared baking dish, smoothing the top gently with a spatula to create a perfect base for the topping.
Step 5: Create the pecan streusel topping
In a medium bowl, combine the softened butter, all-purpose flour, brown sugar, and cinnamon with a fork until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in the chopped pecans last for delightful bursts of nutty flavor in every bite. This crumbly topping delivers the perfect sweet-savory crunch to complement the creamy sweet potatoes.
Step 6: Assemble the casserole and bake
Sprinkle your pecan streusel evenly over the sweet potato layer. Place the dish in the oven and bake for 10-12 minutes until the topping is warmed through and lightly golden. Then, generously scatter 2-3 cups of miniature marshmallows on top. Return the casserole to the oven for another 5-6 minutes until the marshmallows have puffed up and toasted to a beautiful golden brown. Keep a close eye on them so they don’t burn!
Step 7: Cool and serve
Remove the casserole from the oven and allow it to cool for about 5 minutes. This resting time lets the flavors meld and the marshmallows settle just enough for easy scooping without losing their fluffy texture.
How to Serve Sweet Potato Casserole with Marshmallows and Pecans Recipe
Garnishes
Adding a sprinkle of finely chopped fresh parsley or a pinch of ground nutmeg can elevate your Sweet Potato Casserole with Marshmallows and Pecans Recipe by bringing a fresh or subtly spicy note. For an extra festive touch, consider a light drizzle of pure maple syrup just before serving to enhance the sweetness with natural richness.
Side Dishes
This casserole pairs beautifully with a variety of savory dishes. It’s a star next to roasted turkey, glazed ham, or even a simple herb-roasted chicken. For a vegetarian spread, serve alongside sautéed green beans or a crisp autumn salad for a balanced contrast between sweet and savory, creamy and crunchy.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to impress your guests with presentation? Try baking individual portions in ramekins topped with pecans and marshmallows. You can also layer the casserole in a clear glass baking dish to show off the beautiful layers of sweet potatoes, nuts, and marshmallows. For a fun twist, sprinkle some mini chocolate chips underneath the marshmallow topping to introduce a surprise hint of melted chocolate in every bite.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Your Sweet Potato Casserole with Marshmallows and Pecans Recipe keeps wonderfully in the fridge. Simply cover it tightly with foil or plastic wrap and store for up to 4 days. When reheated, the flavors become even more harmonious, and the marshmallows stay delectably soft.
Freezing
If you’d like to prepare ahead even further, this casserole freezes beautifully. Assemble the entire dish but wait to add the marshmallows until after reheating. Wrap tightly with plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. This makes it a convenient holiday helper or anytime comfort food ready to go.
Reheating
For reheating, place the casserole in a 350ºF oven covered with foil to prevent marshmallows from burning if added. Heat for about 20-25 minutes until warmed through. If frozen, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. Add fresh mini marshmallows on top during the last 5 minutes of heating to keep them fluffy and toasted.
FAQs
Can I use canned sweet potatoes for this recipe?
While fresh sweet potatoes deliver the best texture and flavor for your Sweet Potato Casserole with Marshmallows and Pecans Recipe, canned sweet potatoes can be used in a pinch. Just make sure to drain them well and adjust the amount of milk or butter as canned versions might be softer and wetter.
Is this casserole gluten-free?
Not as written, since the streusel topping contains all-purpose flour. To make it gluten-free, substitute the flour with a gluten-free flour blend or almond flour — your pecan streusel will still taste amazing!
Can I make this recipe vegan?
Absolutely! Use a plant-based butter substitute and a non-dairy milk like almond or oat milk. For the marshmallows, there are vegan options available that will toast just as nicely and keep the dessert cruelty-free.
What can I use instead of marshmallows?
If marshmallows aren’t your thing, crushed graham crackers or toasted coconut flakes make delightful toppings that add texture and a subtle sweetness without overpowering the dish.
How far in advance can I prepare this casserole?
You can prepare the mashed sweet potato mixture and streusel topping up to 24 hours in advance. Assemble the casserole and refrigerate, then add marshmallows before baking. This makes it easy to have everything ready for your holiday feast or family dinner.
Final Thoughts
There is just something magical about the Sweet Potato Casserole with Marshmallows and Pecans Recipe that brings warmth and joy to any table. From the creamy, spiced mashed potatoes to the crunchy pecan topping and those irresistible toasty marshmallows, this dish is pure comfort and delight in every bite. I genuinely hope you’ll make it soon and create special memories sharing it with your loved ones.
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