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Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe – Easy Southern Comfort with Toasted Marshmallows

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This cozy Southern sweet potato casserole features a creamy sweet potato base, warm spices, and a gooey toasted marshmallow topping. It’s a nostalgic, crowd-pleasing comfort food perfect for holidays, potlucks, or any time you crave a sweet and soulful side dish.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 pounds sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into large chunks
  • 1/3 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 2/3 cup light brown sugar, packed
  • 2 large eggs, room temperature
  • 1/4 cup whole milk (or half-and-half)
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • Zest of 1 small orange (optional)
  • 1/4 teaspoon fine sea salt
  • 2 cups mini marshmallows
  • 1/2 cup chopped pecans (optional)

Instructions

  1. Place peeled and cut sweet potatoes in a large pot. Cover with cold water and add a pinch of salt.
  2. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce to medium. Simmer for 18-22 minutes, until fork-tender.
  3. Drain well in a colander and let cool for 5 minutes.
  4. Transfer sweet potatoes to a large mixing bowl. Mash until smooth with a potato masher or use a hand mixer for extra creaminess.
  5. Add softened butter, brown sugar, eggs, milk, vanilla, cinnamon, nutmeg, orange zest (if using), and salt.
  6. Mix on medium speed until fully combined and creamy. If mixture is too stiff, add a splash more milk.
  7. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or nonstick spray.
  8. Spoon sweet potato mixture into the dish and smooth the top with a spatula.
  9. Sprinkle mini marshmallows evenly over the surface. Add chopped pecans if using.
  10. Bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes until casserole is hot and marshmallows are puffed and toasted golden brown.
  11. If marshmallows aren’t browning, switch to broil for 1-2 minutes, watching closely.
  12. Let rest for 10 minutes before serving. Serve warm, garnished with a pinch of cinnamon or extra pecans if desired.

Notes

For a dairy-free or vegan version, substitute non-dairy milk, vegan butter, and vegan marshmallows. Pecans are optional for crunch; omit for nut-free. Orange zest adds brightness but can be skipped. Watch marshmallows closely when broiling to prevent burning. Casserole can be made ahead and refrigerated before baking.

Nutrition

Keywords: sweet potato casserole, southern comfort food, marshmallow topping, holiday side dish, Thanksgiving, gluten-free, easy casserole, potluck recipe

Find it online: https://lucydishes.com/sweet-potato-casserole-recipe-easy-southern-comfort-with-toasted-marshmallows/