Name: Old Fashioned Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 ½ pounds sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes; ¼ cup light brown sugar, packed; ¼ cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; ¼ cup pecans, chopped; 2 cups mini marshmallows; ¼ cup pecans, chopped

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Introduction

Old Fashioned Sweet Potato Casserole is a comforting side dish perfect for holiday meals or cozy family dinners. With creamy mashed sweet potatoes, a touch of brown sugar, and a delightful marshmallow and pecan topping, this casserole is sure to become a favorite.

A square piece of sweet potato casserole sits on a stack of three white plates with a silver fork resting on the top plate's edge. The casserole has three distinct layers: the bottom orange mashed sweet potato layer which looks soft and slightly chunky, a middle layer of melted white marshmallows that are gooey, and a top layer of golden-brown toasted marshmallows with some chopped pecans scattered on top and around the plate. The background features a white marbled texture. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

2 ½ pounds sweet potatoes (peeled, cut into 1-inch cubes)
¼ cup light brown sugar (packed)
¼ cup unsalted butter (softened)
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
½ cup pecans (chopped, divided)
2 cups mini marshmallows

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F and grease a 9 x 13-inch casserole dish to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Place the sweet potatoes into a large pot of boiling water.
Step 3: Reduce the heat to low and let the sweet potatoes simmer until tender, about 10 to 15 minutes.
Step 4: Drain the sweet potatoes and transfer them to a large mixing bowl. Mash them together with the brown sugar, softened butter, salt, and vanilla extract until smooth and well combined.
Step 5: Fold in ¼ cup of the chopped pecans, then spread the sweet potato mixture evenly into the prepared casserole dish. Top with the mini marshmallows and sprinkle the remaining pecans over the top.
Step 6: Bake in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the marshmallows are golden brown.

Tips & Variations

For a richer flavor, try adding a pinch of ground cinnamon or nutmeg to the sweet potato mash before baking.
If you prefer a crunchier topping, toast the pecans lightly before adding them to the casserole.
Swap mini marshmallows for chopped large marshmallows if mini ones are unavailable.
To make it nut-free, simply omit the pecans or substitute with toasted coconut flakes.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or warm the casserole in the oven at 350°F until heated through, about 15 minutes.

How to Serve

The image shows a white baking dish filled with three layers: the bottom layer is mashed orange sweet potatoes, the middle layer is melted creamy white marshmallows, and the top layer is a golden brown toasted marshmallow crust with small round marshmallows that are browned evenly. A wooden spoon lifts a portion from the dish, revealing the soft inner layer of marshmallows and mashed sweet potatoes, with the toasted marshmallow topping clinging on top. The dish is placed on a white marbled surface with scattered pecan nuts around, and a small clear glass bowl with more pecans sits nearby. A crumpled white cloth napkin is near the baking dish. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the mashed sweet potatoes and assemble the casserole a day in advance. Cover it tightly with foil and refrigerate. Bake it the next day, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time if chilled.

Can I use frozen sweet potatoes instead of fresh?

Frozen sweet potatoes can be used, but be sure to thaw and drain any excess moisture before mashing to avoid a watery casserole.