Best Sweet Potato Casserole with Marshmallows and Pecan Topping

Sweet Potato Casserole

A cozy holiday side dish that’s creamy, sweet, and crunchy — this casserole is the star of every Thanksgiving table!

🕒 Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cook Time: 35 minutes | Total Time: 55 minutes

Ingredients

For the Sweet Potato Base:

• 4 large sweet potatoes (about 2 lbs), peeled and cubed
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs, beaten
• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
• ½ cup milk (whole or 2%)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ½ teaspoon salt

For the Pecan Topping:

• ½ cup all-purpose flour
• ½ cup light brown sugar, packed
• ½ cup chopped pecans
• ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted

Optional Marshmallow Layer:

• 2 cups mini marshmallows

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Sweet Potatoes
   • Peel and cube the sweet potatoes, then place them in a large pot of salted water.
   • Bring to a boil and cook until fork-tender, about 15–20 minutes. Drain well.
2. Mash the Base
   • In a large mixing bowl, mash the hot sweet potatoes until smooth. You can use a potato masher or hand mixer for extra creaminess.
   • Stir in sugar, beaten eggs, melted butter, milk, vanilla, and salt. Mix until fully combined.
3. Make the Pecan Topping
   • In a medium bowl, combine flour, brown sugar, pecans, and melted butter. Stir until crumbly. This will create the crunchy golden topping.
4. Assemble the Casserole
   • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
   • Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread the sweet potato mixture evenly into the dish.
   • Sprinkle the pecan topping evenly over the sweet potato layer.
5. Bake It
   • Place the casserole in the oven and bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, until the topping is golden and crisp.
6. Add Marshmallows (Optional but Delicious!)
   • If you love the classic marshmallow topping, remove the casserole after 20 minutes, sprinkle marshmallows evenly over the top, and return to the oven for 8–10 minutes until gooey and lightly browned.
7. Serve and Enjoy
   • Let it cool for 5 minutes before serving. It’s best enjoyed warm, straight from the dish.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Sweet Potato Casserole

• Make Ahead: You can prepare the sweet potato mixture a day before, refrigerate it, and bake with topping right before serving.
• Nut-Free Option: Skip the pecans and substitute crushed cornflakes or rolled oats mixed with butter and sugar for a crunchy topping.
• Balance the Sweetness: If you’re serving this as a side dish with savory meats, reduce the sugar slightly and add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg.

Nutrition Info (Per Serving, about 1 cup)

Serving Size	Calories	Protein	Carbs	Fat	Fiber	Sugar
1 cup	420	6g	52g	20g	6g	25g

Disclaimer: Nutrition facts are estimated using online calculators and may vary depending on ingredients and preparation. For exact values, please consult a nutritionist.

Why You’ll Love This Sweet Potato Casserole

This casserole is more than just a side dish — it’s comfort in a baking dish. The creamy sweet potato base balances perfectly with the crunchy pecan topping and gooey marshmallows. It’s sweet enough to feel like dessert but still pairs beautifully with roasted turkey, chicken, or ham. Whether for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or Sunday dinner, this dish brings people together around the table.

If you want a recipe that impresses guests, is simple to make, and looks picture-perfect on your holiday spread, this Sweet Potato Casserole is the one.

Final Thoughts

Sweet Potato Casserole is one of those recipes that never goes out of style. It combines rich flavors, cozy textures, and holiday tradition in one dish. Once you try it, you’ll see why it’s a family favorite for generations.