Easy Sweet Potato Casserole (With Marshmallows): A Classic Comfort Side Dish
Few dishes capture the warmth and nostalgia of holiday cooking quite like easy sweet potato casserole with marshmallows. Creamy, lightly spiced sweet potatoes topped with gooey, toasted marshmallows create a comforting contrast of flavors and textures that feels instantly familiar. Whether it’s served at Thanksgiving, Christmas, or a cozy family dinner, this casserole has earned its place as a timeless classic.
This version focuses on simplicity. No complicated steps, no hard-to-find ingredients—just smooth, buttery sweet potatoes sweetened just enough and finished with a golden marshmallow topping that melts beautifully in the oven. It’s approachable, reliable, and always a crowd favorite.
Sweet potato casserole walks the line between savory side dish and dessert-like indulgence. That balance is what makes it so beloved. The natural sweetness of the potatoes pairs perfectly with warm spices, while the marshmallows add a soft, caramelized finish that feels celebratory without being overwhelming.
Why This Sweet Potato Casserole Is a Must-Make
Easy Preparation
Simple ingredients and straightforward steps make this recipe stress-free.
Classic Flavor
This is the traditional version many people grew up with—creamy filling and marshmallow topping.
Perfect for Holidays
Feeds a crowd and fits seamlessly into festive menus.
Make-Ahead Friendly
Prepare in advance and bake when needed.
A Brief History of Sweet Potato Casserole
Sweet potato casserole became popular in the United States in the early 20th century, particularly in Southern cooking. The introduction of marshmallows as a topping was partly influenced by marketing campaigns, but the combination stuck because it worked. The sweetness, texture contrast, and visual appeal made it an instant classic.
Over time, variations emerged—pecan toppings, streusel crumbs, or savory versions—but marshmallows remain the most iconic.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Ingredients
- Sweet potatoes
- Unsalted butter
- Brown sugar
- Granulated sugar
- Milk or cream
- Eggs
- Vanilla extract
- Ground cinnamon
- Ground nutmeg
- Salt
- Mini marshmallows
Instructions: How to Make Easy Sweet Potato Casserole
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a baking dish and set aside.
- Peel and cube sweet potatoes. Boil in salted water until fork-tender. Drain well.
- Mash sweet potatoes until smooth, removing excess moisture.
- Add butter, brown sugar, granulated sugar, milk, eggs, vanilla, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Mix until creamy and well combined.
- Spread the sweet potato mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish.
- Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes until heated through.
- Remove from oven and evenly top with marshmallows.
- Return to oven and bake an additional 10–15 minutes until marshmallows are puffed and golden.
- Let rest briefly before serving.
Easy Sweet Potato Casserole (With Marshmallows)
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Boil sweet potatoes until tender and mash.
- Mix mashed potatoes with remaining filling ingredients.
- Bake until heated through.
- Top with marshmallows and bake until golden.
Notes
Tips for the Best Sweet Potato Casserole
- Drain potatoes well to avoid watery filling
- Mash until smooth for the creamiest texture
- Use mini marshmallows for even coverage
- Watch closely at the end to prevent over-browning
- Let it rest before serving so it sets slightly
Sweetness Control
- Less sweet: Reduce sugar slightly and rely on marshmallows
- More dessert-like: Add extra brown sugar or vanilla
- Deeper flavor: Use dark brown sugar
Variations You Can Try
Pecan Crunch Version
Add chopped pecans under or over the marshmallows.
Cinnamon Sugar Finish
Dust marshmallows lightly with cinnamon sugar before baking.
Dairy-Free Option
Use plant-based butter and milk.
Extra Creamy
Replace milk with heavy cream.
What to Serve With Sweet Potato Casserole
- Roast turkey or chicken
- Ham or pork roast
- Green bean casserole
- Stuffing or dressing
- Cranberry sauce
This casserole pairs especially well with savory, salty main dishes.
Make-Ahead & Storage Tips
Make Ahead:
Assemble sweet potato filling up to 2 days in advance. Add marshmallows just before baking.
Refrigerator:
Store leftovers up to 4 days.
Freezer:
Freeze without marshmallows for best texture.
Reheating:
Reheat in oven until warmed through.
Why This Recipe Works
This casserole succeeds because it respects balance. Sweet potatoes bring natural sweetness and earthiness. Butter adds richness. Spices add warmth. Marshmallows provide a soft, nostalgic finish without overpowering the dish.
When to Serve This Dish
- Thanksgiving dinner
- Christmas meals
- Potlucks
- Family gatherings
- Comfort-food cravings
Final Thoughts
Easy Sweet Potato Casserole (With Marshmallows) is a recipe that never goes out of style. It’s comforting, familiar, and guaranteed to bring smiles to the table. Whether you’re serving it for a holiday or a simple family dinner, this casserole delivers warmth and tradition in every bite.
