Irresistible Sweet Potato Casserole with Marshmallows Recipe (Easy Holiday Favorite)

This Irresistible Sweet Potato Casserole with Marshmallows Recipe is the cozy, nostalgic side dish that practically screams “Thanksgiving.” I’ve made this for years—it was my grandmother’s go-to—and no matter how many new sides hit the holiday table, this one always disappears first.

Golden, gooey marshmallows on top, creamy mashed sweet potatoes underneath, and just the right touch of cinnamon and brown sugar—it’s pure holiday magic.

Why You’ll Love This Sweet Potato Casserole

• Quick & Easy – Just boil, mash, mix, and bake
• Family-friendly – Sweet and creamy with a kid-approved marshmallow top
• Make-ahead friendly – Assemble the night before and bake when ready
• Holiday-perfect – A staple for Thanksgiving, Christmas, and Friendsgiving
• Minimal ingredients – No fancy ingredients required

This dish makes me feel like a little kid again—sneaking marshmallows from the bag before they go in the oven.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this classic sweet potato casserole with marshmallows:

• 4 large sweet potatoes (about 2 lbs)
• ½ cup unsalted butter
• 1 cup brown sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 pinch cinnamon (or more to taste)
• 2 cups mini marshmallows
• Pinch of salt (optional, but helps balance the sweetness)

How to Make Irresistible Sweet Potato Casserole with Marshmallows Recipe

Step 1: Prep the Oven & Dish

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Lightly spray a baking dish (8×8 or similar) with nonstick cooking spray.

FOR Step 2: Boil the Sweet Potatoes

1. Peel and chop the sweet potatoes into chunks.
2. Place them in a large pot of salted water.
3. Boil for 15–20 minutes, or until tender when pierced with a fork.
4. Drain and let them cool slightly.

Step 3: Mash & Mix

• In a large mixing bowl, mash the sweet potatoes until smooth.
• Add the butter, brown sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt.
• Mix until fully combined and creamy.

And Step 4: Assemble the Casserole

• Transfer the sweet potato mixture to the prepared baking dish.
• Spread evenly with a spatula.
• Sprinkle mini marshmallows generously over the top.

Step 5: Bake

• Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, or until the marshmallows are golden brown and puffy.
• Let cool slightly before serving.

Pro tip: If you like extra crispy marshmallows, broil the casserole for 1–2 minutes at the end. Watch carefully so they don’t burn!

Tips for the Best Sweet Potato Casserole Ever

• Make ahead – Assemble the casserole (minus the marshmallows) and refrigerate overnight. Add marshmallows just before baking.
• Add texture – Stir in chopped pecans or top with a pecan-brown sugar crumble for crunch.
• Swap the sweetener – Use maple syrup instead of brown sugar for a cozy twist.
• Use canned sweet potatoes – In a pinch? Use two 15 oz cans (drained) instead of fresh potatoes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why do people put marshmallows on sweet potatoes?

It’s a sweet-and-savory combo that dates back to the early 1900s. The gooey topping balances the creamy texture of the sweet potatoes.

What is the name of the sweet potato and marshmallow dish?

It’s called sweet potato casserole, especially around Thanksgiving.

Can I make sweet potato casserole ahead of time?

Yes! Prep the base and refrigerate it. Just add marshmallows right before baking.

How do I keep marshmallows from melting too much?

Bake uncovered at 350°F. For best results, add marshmallows in the last 10 minutes of baking.

What’s the difference between yams and sweet potatoes?

In the U.S., they’re often labeled interchangeably. True yams are starchier and less sweet. This recipe uses orange-fleshed sweet potatoes.

Can I use jumbo marshmallows?

You can, but mini marshmallows melt more evenly and give better coverage.

What to Serve With Sweet Potato Casserole

This dish pairs perfectly with:

• Roasted turkey or ham
• Green bean casserole
• Mashed potatoes
• Cranberry sauce
• Buttery rolls

Try These Reader Favorites:

• Thanksgiving Favorites to Try: New Thanksgiving Recipes
• Quick & Delicious Side Dishes: Quick and Delicious Recipes
• Decadent Sweet Treats for Holidays: Earl Grey Cookies

Make It Yours

This base recipe is incredibly flexible. Try these fun add-ins:

• Pecans – Toasted and folded into the mash or added to a crumble topping.
• Coconut flakes – For a tropical flair.
• Pumpkin spice – Sub in for cinnamon for a festive twist.
• Mini chocolate chips – Sprinkle in for extra indulgence.

My personal favorite? A pecan-cinnamon-butter crumble plus marshmallows for the best of both worlds.

Save & Share!

If you make this Irresistible Sweet Potato Casserole with Marshmallows Recipe, tag me on Pinterest @RitzyRecipes—I’d love to see your holiday spread!

Got a secret twist? Share your family’s version in the comments below. ❤️

Final Thoughts: A Sweet, Toasty Holiday Classic

This sweet potato casserole is more than a side dish—it’s a tradition. It brings warmth, smiles, and just the right amount of sweet to your holiday table. Whether you’re hosting a crowd or keeping it cozy, this recipe is the one you’ll come back to again and again.

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