Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe

If you’re looking for a heartwarming dish that brings everyone together, this Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe is just what you need! It’s creamy, sweet, and topped with crunchy candied pecans and gooey vegan marshmallows. This dish has a way of making any gathering feel special, whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a festive holiday celebration. Trust me, once you serve this casserole, it’ll quickly become a beloved favorite at your table!

This recipe is not only delicious but also incredibly easy to prepare. You can whip it up on busy weeknights or make it ahead for potlucks and gatherings. Plus, who can resist the aroma of sweet potatoes baking in the oven? Let’s dive into why you’ll love this recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to make: With just a few simple steps, this casserole comes together quickly, making it perfect for any skill level.
• Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the sweet flavors and comforting textures—everyone will be coming back for seconds!
• Make-ahead convenience: Prep it in advance and pop it into the oven when you’re ready to serve; it’s great for stress-free entertaining!
• Deliciously satisfying: The combination of creamy sweet potatoes, crunchy pecans, and toasted marshmallows delivers an irresistible flavor explosion.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple ingredients that are both wholesome and flavorful! You probably have many of these items in your pantry already, which makes this recipe even more appealing.

For the Sweet Potato Base

• 5 pounds sweet potatoes (peeled and cut into 2-inch pieces)
• 1 cup water
• 2 eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ½ cup butter (melted)
• 1 cup brown sugar
• 2-3 teaspoons salt (or to taste)
• ½ cup heavy cream (or milk)

For the Pecan Topping

• ½ cup brown sugar
• ½ cup flour
• ⅓ cup melted butter
• 1 cup chopped pecans

For the Marshmallow Layer

• 3-4 cups mini vegan marshmallows

Variations

This Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to get creative with these variations:

• Add spices: Spice up your casserole with cinnamon or nutmeg for an added warmth and depth of flavor.
• Mix in fruits: Stir in some chopped apples or cranberries for a pop of tartness that balances the sweetness.
• Change up the nuts: If you’re not a fan of pecans, try walnuts or almonds for a different crunch.
• Top with oats: For a healthier twist, replace the topping with rolled oats mixed with a bit of maple syrup for sweetness.

How to Make Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Sweet Potatoes

Begin by cooking your sweet potatoes. You can boil them until tender or use a slow cooker or Instant Pot for an easier method. Cooking them well makes sure they mash smoothly and blend beautifully with other flavors.

Step 2: Mash It Up

Once cooked, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Then, mash those sweet potatoes in a bowl until they reach your desired texture—smooth or slightly chunky. Add in eggs, vanilla extract, melted butter, brown sugar, salt, and heavy cream (or milk). Mixing these ingredients together creates that creamy base we all adore.

Step 3: Assemble Your Casserole

Spread your mashed potato mixture evenly into a greased 9×13 baking dish. This layer is where all the magic happens as it bakes!

Step 4: Make the Pecan Topping

In another bowl, combine brown sugar, flour, melted butter, and chopped pecans. Mix well using just a spoon—no need for mixers here! Sprinkle this topping over your sweet potato base. It’s perfectly fine if some areas aren’t completely covered; that adds character!

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Bake your casserole uncovered for about 20-25 minutes until the pecans become caramelized and fragrant. This step ensures that delightful crunch we all love.

Step 6: Add Marshmallows

Finally, sprinkle those mini vegan marshmallows over the pecan layer. Return your casserole to the oven for an additional 5-7 minutes until they puff up and turn lightly golden brown. The final touch adds an irresistible sweetness!

Serve this delicious Sweet Potato Casserole warm from the oven and watch as everyone gathers around to enjoy every last bite!

Pro Tips for Making Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe

Creating the perfect sweet potato casserole can be a delightful experience; here are some tips to ensure your dish turns out wonderfully every time!

• Choose the right sweet potatoes: Opt for firm, smooth-skinned sweet potatoes that are heavy for their size. This ensures a sweeter flavor and a creamy texture when cooked.

• Mix gently: When combining your ingredients, mix just until incorporated. Over-mixing can lead to a gummy texture, so keep it light and fluffy!

• Customize the sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet casserole, feel free to adjust the amount of brown sugar in both the filling and topping. You can also experiment with maple syrup for a unique twist.

• Use fresh pecans: Toasting your pecans before adding them to the topping enhances their flavor and crunchiness. Just pop them in a dry skillet over medium heat for a few minutes until fragrant.

• Make ahead of time: This casserole can be prepared in advance! Assemble it without baking, cover it tightly, and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Just add an extra 10-15 minutes to baking time if you’re starting from cold.

How to Serve Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe

Serving your sweet potato casserole can elevate your meal experience! Here are some ideas on how to present this comforting dish beautifully.

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh herbs: Sprinkle some chopped parsley or chives on top for a pop of color and freshness.
• Cinnamon dusting: A light sprinkle of cinnamon adds warmth and ties in with the flavors of the casserole.

Side Dishes

• Roasted Brussels sprouts: These crispy veggies provide a perfect contrast to the creamy casserole, adding texture and flavor.
• Green bean almondine: Sautéed green beans with toasted almonds offer a nutty crunch that complements the sweetness of the casserole.
• Quinoa salad: A light quinoa salad with lemon vinaigrette brings brightness and freshness to your plate while balancing out the richness.
• Cornbread: Sweet cornbread pairs beautifully with this dish, providing a delightful combination of flavors that everyone will love.

Whether it’s for a holiday feast or just a cozy family dinner, this sweet potato casserole recipe is sure to impress! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to save time during busy days or gatherings. You can easily make it ahead and store it, so it’s ready to bake whenever you need a comforting side dish!

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the casserole to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer leftovers to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing

• To freeze, ensure the casserole is completely cooled.
• Cover tightly with plastic wrap and then with aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.
• Freeze for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Cover the casserole with foil and reheat for about 20-25 minutes, or until warmed through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions I receive about this recipe!

Can I make this sweet potato casserole recipe vegan?

Absolutely! You can easily substitute the eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water per egg), and use plant-based butter and milk alternatives for a fully vegan dish.

What’s the best way to prepare the sweet potatoes for this sweet potato casserole recipe?

I recommend either boiling them until tender or using a slow cooker or Instant Pot for perfectly cooked sweet potatoes. This will yield a creamy texture that blends beautifully with your other ingredients!

How can I make my sweet potato casserole recipe healthier?

You can reduce the sugar by using less brown sugar or substituting it with maple syrup or agave nectar. Additionally, using almond milk instead of heavy cream can lower calories without sacrificing flavor.

How long does it take to cook this sweet potato casserole recipe?

The total time is approximately 60 minutes, which includes about 15 minutes of prep and 45 minutes of cooking time. It’s a great option for a quick yet comforting side dish!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find as much joy in making this Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe as I do! It’s a delightful blend of creamy sweetness topped with crunchy pecans and fluffy marshmallows that makes every bite special. Whether you’re serving it at a holiday gathering or enjoying it on a cozy weeknight, it’s sure to bring smiles around your table. Enjoy creating this comforting dish, and don’t forget to share your experience!