Sweet Potato Casserole with Marshmallows
Jump to RecipeSweet Potato Casserole with Marshmallows is a delightful dish that perfectly marries sweet and savory flavors, making it an essential centerpiece for any holiday gathering or family meal. This classic recipe transforms humble sweet potatoes into a creamy, luscious casserole topped with a golden layer of gooey mini marshmallows. With just a few simple ingredients — including sweet potatoes, butter, brown sugar, and a hint of vanilla — you can create a comforting dish that everyone will love. Whether you are looking to impress your guests during Thanksgiving dinner or simply want to indulge in a delicious side dish, this Sweet Potato Casserole is sure to warm your heart and please your taste buds. Follow this easy step-by-step guide to whip up this fan-favorite recipe that combines nostalgia with a modern twist, making it perfect for any occasion!
Ingredients
sweet potatoes
Choose firm, unblemished sweet potatoes for the best flavor and texture. If you want a slightly different flavor, you can substitute with butternut squash or pumpkin. For quicker cooking, you can microwave whole sweet potatoes for about 5-8 minutes, or until tender, then peel and mash.
butter
Use unsalted butter to control the saltiness of the dish. If you want a healthier option, you can substitute with coconut oil or vegan butter. For a richer flavor, try browning the butter before adding it to the sweet potatoes.
brown sugar
Light brown sugar will provide a milder flavor, while dark brown sugar will add more depth due to its higher molasses content. You can substitute brown sugar with maple syrup or honey for a different sweetness profile, but adjust the liquid content in the recipe accordingly.
milk
You can use any type of milk (whole, skim, almond, oat, etc.) depending on your dietary preferences. For a creamier texture, consider using heavy cream or half-and-half. For a dairy-free option, substitute with coconut milk or almond milk.
vanilla extract
Use pure vanilla extract for the best flavor, but imitation vanilla can be a budget-friendly alternative. If you want to experiment, consider adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to enhance the warm flavors.
salt
Salt enhances the flavor of sweet dishes, so don't skip it. If you're watching your sodium intake, you can reduce the amount or use a salt substitute. Alternatively, a pinch of sea salt can elevate the flavor without being overpowering.
mini marshmallows
Mini marshmallows are perfect for this dish, but you can also use regular marshmallows cut in half. For a twist, try using flavored marshmallows or toasting them slightly before adding on top. If you prefer a healthier option, you could top with chopped pecans or walnuts for crunch.
Cooking Steps
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that the casserole cooks evenly once it's placed inside.Step 2: Prepare the Sweet Potatoes
Peel the sweet potatoes and chop them into cubes. Make sure the pieces are uniform in size for even cooking. Boil them in a large pot of water for about 15 minutes, or until they are tender enough to be pierced easily with a fork.Step 3: Mash the Sweet Potatoes
Once drained, return the sweet potatoes to the pot. Use a potato masher to mash them until smooth. This step is crucial for achieving a creamy texture.Step 4: Mix in Other Ingredients
Add the butter, brown sugar, milk, vanilla extract, and salt to the mashed sweet potatoes. Mix well until everything is combined and the mixture is creamy. This combination adds flavor and sweetness to the casserole.Step 5: Transfer to Baking Dish
Grease a baking dish with butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking. Pour the sweet potato mixture into the dish and smooth out the top with a spatula.Step 6: Add Marshmallows
Evenly sprinkle the mini marshmallows over the top of the sweet potato mixture. This will create a delicious, gooey topping.Step 7: Bake the Casserole
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 30 minutes. Keep an eye on it, and look for the marshmallows to become golden brown and gooey.Step 8: Cool and Serve
Once done, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving. This will allow it to set a bit, making it easier to serve.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I peel sweet potatoes without making a mess?
Use a vegetable peeler for best results. Start at one end and peel towards the other in long strokes. If you find it slippery, try using a paper towel to grip the potato.
How do I know when sweet potatoes are tender enough to mash?
After boiling for about 15 minutes, test a piece by poking it with a fork. If it easily breaks apart, it's ready to mash!
What can I substitute for butter in this recipe?
You can use margarine or coconut oil as a substitute for butter if you want a dairy-free option.
Can I use regular marshmallows instead of mini marshmallows?
Yes, you can use regular marshmallows. Just cut them in half to ensure they melt evenly on top.
How do I prevent the marshmallows from burning while baking?
Keep an eye on them while they bake. If they start to brown too quickly, you can cover the dish loosely with aluminum foil.
What should I do if I don’t have brown sugar?
You can make a substitute by mixing white sugar with a little molasses (1 tablespoon of molasses for every cup of white sugar) or just use white sugar alone.
How can I make this dish ahead of time?
You can prepare the sweet potato mixture and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days before baking. Just add the marshmallows right before baking.
What’s the best way to grease the baking dish?
You can use cooking spray, butter, or oil to grease your baking dish. Just make sure to cover the entire bottom and sides to prevent sticking.
How long can I store leftovers?
Leftover sweet potato casserole can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-5 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
What can I serve with sweet potato casserole?
This dish pairs wonderfully with roasted meats, such as turkey or ham, and can be part of a festive holiday meal.
Additional Information
Dietary Considerations
For a dairy-free version, substitute the butter with coconut oil or a dairy-free margarine, and use almond or oat milk in place of regular milk. To reduce sugar, you can replace brown sugar with a natural sweetener like maple syrup or agave nectar, adjusting the quantity to taste. For a gluten-free option, this recipe is already suitable as it does not contain any gluten ingredients.
Pairings
This Sweet Potato Casserole with Marshmallows pairs beautifully with roasted meats such as turkey, ham, or chicken. For a vegetarian option, serve it alongside grilled vegetables or a hearty salad. To complement the sweetness of the casserole, consider a light-bodied white wine like Riesling or a sparkling cider. For a non-alcoholic option, apple cider or a ginger ale can enhance the flavors.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Sweet Potato Casserole warm, straight from the oven, to enjoy the melty marshmallows. You can garnish the dish with a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg for an aromatic touch. For a more festive presentation, serve it in a decorative baking dish and provide a large spoon for guests to help themselves. Consider offering a side of whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for those who enjoy a sweeter dessert-like experience.
Sweet Potato Casserole with Marshmallows
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Description
A comforting and sweet dish with creamy sweet potatoes topped with gooey marshmallows, perfect for any family gathering.
Ingredients
- sweet potatoes: 4 medium
- butter: 1/2 cup
- brown sugar: 1/2 cup
- milk: 1/2 cup
- vanilla extract: 1 teaspoon
- salt: 1/2 teaspoon
- mini marshmallows: 2 cups
Date Created:
11/22/2024