Sweet Potato Casserole with Marshmallows: 7 Holiday Magic Bites

There are some dishes that just feel like a hug — and Sweet Potato Casserole with Marshmallows is one of them. Whether it’s Thanksgiving, Christmas, or a random Tuesday when you need a little comfort, this dish brings cozy, caramelized magic straight to your table.

I still remember the first time I made it — I was trying to impress my family at Thanksgiving, and when that first golden-brown pan came out of the oven, everyone’s eyes lit up like I’d just unveiled dessert before dinner. (Which, honestly, this dish kind of is!)

This casserole is rich, creamy, nutty, and perfectly sweet — the kind of recipe that makes people go back for seconds and ask for the recipe before they leave.

Why You’ll Love This Sweet Potato Casserole with Marshmallows

This Sweet Potato Casserole with Marshmallows is the perfect marriage of textures and flavors — creamy sweet potatoes, crunchy pecan topping, and those gooey, toasted marshmallows that turn every bite into nostalgia.

Here’s why you’ll want this on repeat all season long:

• It’s foolproof. A few simple steps and you’ve got a showstopper.
• It doubles as a dessert. Seriously, who can resist those marshmallows?
• It’s make-ahead friendly. You can prep it the night before and bake it when you’re ready to wow everyone.
• It’s a crowd favorite. Picky eaters? Sweet tooths? Everyone will find something to love here.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Sweet Potato Filling

• 4 large sweet potatoes, peeled and chopped into large chunks (around 9 cups worth)
• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 cup brown sugar
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ¼ teaspoon nutmeg

For the Pecan Topping

• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• ⅓ cup brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 ¼ cups finely chopped pecan pieces

For the Marshmallow Layer

• 10 oz mini marshmallows

How to Make Sweet Potato Casserole with Marshmallows

Step 1: Prep the Sweet Potatoes

Peel and chop your sweet potatoes into large chunks. Place them in a large saucepan, cover with water, and bring to a boil.

Boil until fork-tender — they should practically melt when you poke them. Drain, then return them to the pot and mash until smooth.

Step 2: Flavor the Filling

Add the melted butter, brown sugar, salt, cinnamon, vanilla extract, and nutmeg. Mix until creamy and well combined. You can use a hand mixer if you like your filling extra silky.

Step 3: Make the Pecan Topping

In a separate bowl, stir together melted butter, brown sugar, flour, salt, and pecans. This topping adds that irresistible nutty crunch that balances the sweetness perfectly.

Step 4: Layer It Up

Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray. Spread the sweet potato mixture evenly in the dish, top with the pecan mixture, and then blanket it all with mini marshmallows.

Step 5: Bake to Golden Perfection

Bake at 350°F for 25–35 minutes, or until bubbly and the marshmallows are golden brown. Watch closely during the last few minutes — golden and gooey is perfect, burnt is… well, less cozy.

Cooking Tips for the Perfect Sweet Potato Casserole

• Too sweet? Cut back slightly on the brown sugar or add a sprinkle of flaky sea salt before serving.
• Nut-free option: Skip the pecans and top the potatoes directly with marshmallows. Still delicious, still crowd-pleasing.
• Make it ahead: Assemble the casserole (minus the marshmallows) a day in advance. Store in the fridge, then top and bake when ready.
• Texture tip: If you prefer a chunkier casserole, mash the sweet potatoes by hand instead of using a mixer.

A Little Kitchen Story

This recipe saved me during one of those chaotic Thanksgiving mornings — the kind where every burner is occupied, the turkey timer’s going off, and you’re wondering why you ever volunteered to host. While the turkey was doing its thing, this casserole baked quietly in the corner, filling the house with the warm smell of cinnamon and toasted marshmallows. By the time it hit the table, no one remembered the chaos — just the comfort.

FAQs About Sweet Potato Casserole with Marshmallows

Bring the Comfort Home

There’s just something magical about a Sweet Potato Casserole with Marshmallows — it’s the kind of dish that reminds you why you love gathering around the table. Whether it’s part of your holiday feast or a midweek pick-me-up, it’s pure, golden, sweet comfort in every bite.

So grab your casserole dish, preheat that oven, and let’s make a little kitchen magic together.

More Cozy Recipes to Complete Your Holiday Table

If you loved this Sweet Potato Casserole with Marshmallows, you’ll definitely want to explore a few more dishes that bring warmth, sweetness, and festive flavor to your table. Each of these recipes pairs beautifully with your holiday spread — from savory sides to show-stopping desserts. Here are a few delicious ideas to try next:

• Add a tart and creamy bite to your appetizer table with these irresistible Cranberry Cream Cheese Crescent Bites — they’re flaky, festive, and gone in seconds!
• Keep the cranberry theme going and impress your guests with a homemade Best Ever Cranberry Sauce that tastes better than anything from a can (trust me on this one!).
• Looking for the ultimate lineup of holiday comfort foods? You’ll adore this roundup of Best Thanksgiving Recipes — from mains to sides, it’s a feast of flavor and inspiration.
• And if you’re craving another cozy, Southern-inspired twist, try the creamy and nutty Southern Maple Sweet Potato Casserole — it’s the perfect complement or alternative to this marshmallow-topped classic.

Each of these recipes is packed with flavor, comfort, and that little touch of homemade love that turns any meal into a memory.

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