Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecans and Marshmallows Recipe
A comforting and classic Sweet Potato Casserole featuring tender mashed sweet potatoes mixed with brown sugar, butter, cinnamon, and vanilla, topped with toasted pecans and gooey miniature marshmallows. Perfect as a holiday side dish or a cozy family meal addition.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 16 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Sweet Potato Mixture
- 3 pounds sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into cubes
- ½ cup brown sugar, packed
- ⅓ cup butter, softened
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- ¼ teaspoon cinnamon (or to taste)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- ¾ cup chopped pecans, divided
Topping
- 2 cups miniature marshmallows
- Remaining chopped pecans
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9 x 13-inch baking pan to prevent sticking.
- Cook Sweet Potatoes: Place the peeled and cubed sweet potatoes into a pot of boiling water. Simmer for about 15 minutes or until the potatoes are fork-tender, then drain thoroughly.
- Mash Sweet Potatoes: In a large bowl or the same pot, mash the cooked sweet potatoes. Mix in brown sugar, softened butter, cinnamon, vanilla extract, and salt and black pepper to taste, ensuring all ingredients are well combined.
- Add Pecans and Spread: Fold in half of the chopped pecans gently into the sweet potato mixture. Spread this mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish.
- Add Topping: Evenly sprinkle the miniature marshmallows over the sweet potato layer. Then, top with the remaining chopped pecans.
- Bake Until Golden: Bake in the preheated oven for around 25 minutes or until the marshmallows become golden brown and the casserole is thoroughly heated.
Notes
- For a crunchier topping, you can toast the pecans lightly before adding them.
- If you prefer a less sweet casserole, reduce the amount of brown sugar slightly.
- To make ahead, prepare the sweet potato mixture and store it in the refrigerator; add marshmallows and pecans before baking.
- Use fresh marshmallows for best melting and browning results.
- This recipe serves well as a holiday side dish or comfort food for gatherings.
