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There’s something about the smell of sweet potatoes and cinnamon baking in the oven that instantly brings warmth to your heart. Sweet Potato Casserole with Marshmallows isn’t just a holiday dish – it’s a cherished memory served on a plate. Whether you grew up enjoying this at your grandmother’s Thanksgiving table or discovered it later as a potluck favorite, this recipe carries a touch of nostalgia with every bite. The soft sweetness of the mashed sweet potatoes, combined with a golden, gooey marshmallow topping, creates that irresistible balance of comfort food you’ll keep coming back to year after year.
In this article, you’ll learn how to make the ultimate sweet potato casserole, discover tips to perfect it, and explore why this classic dish continues to be a timeless favorite on festive and family dinner tables.
Why You’ll Love This Sweet Potato Casserole
This dish isn’t just delicious – it’s a showstopper. You’ll love it because:
- It combines sweet, creamy, and toasty flavors in one bite.
- It’s easy to prepare ahead of time for busy holiday cooking.
- Its golden marshmallow topping creates a beautiful finish.
- It’s a dish that pleases both kids and adults alike.
Whether you serve it as a Thanksgiving side or surprise your family with it on a regular weeknight, this casserole always feels like a treat.
PrintEasy Holiday Sweet Potato Casserole with Marshmallow Topping
A classic Sweet Potato Casserole with Marshmallows that combines creamy sweet potatoes, brown sugar, cinnamon, and a golden marshmallow topping for the perfect holiday or comfort food dish.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 5 sweet potatoes, peeled and sliced
- ½ cup packed brown sugar
- ¼ cup butter or margarine
- 3 tablespoons orange juice
- 1 pinch ground cinnamon
- 1 (10.5 ounce) package miniature marshmallows
Instructions
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Place sweet potatoes in a saucepan with water. Boil until tender, about 15 minutes, then drain and mash.
3. Mix mashed potatoes with brown sugar, butter, orange juice, and cinnamon until smooth.
4. Spread mixture evenly into a 9×13 inch baking dish.
5. Sprinkle marshmallows generously over the top.
6. Bake 25 to 30 minutes until marshmallows are puffed and golden.
7. Serve warm and enjoy!
Notes
For a lighter version, reduce marshmallows or replace with a pecan topping. Can be prepped ahead and baked before serving.
Sweet Potato Casserole with Marshmallows Ingredients
The simplicity of this recipe is part of its charm. With just a handful of ingredients, you create something unforgettable.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Sweet potatoes, peeled and sliced | 5 medium |
| Packed brown sugar | ½ cup |
| Butter or margarine | ¼ cup |
| Orange juice | 3 tablespoons |
| Ground cinnamon | 1 pinch |
| Miniature marshmallows | (10.5 ounces) package |
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these easy steps to create the perfect sweet potato casserole:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures even baking.
- Boil sweet potatoes in a large saucepan with enough water to cover them. Cook for about 15 minutes or until tender.
- Drain and mash the sweet potatoes until smooth.
- Mix the filling by adding brown sugar, butter, orange juice, and cinnamon to the mashed potatoes. Use an electric mixer for a creamy, fluffy texture.
- Spread the mixture evenly into a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Top with marshmallows for that signature golden finish.
- Bake for 25–30 minutes until the marshmallows are golden and puffed.
- Serve hot and watch it disappear within minutes!
Tips for the Best Sweet Potato Casserole
- Cut evenly: Slice sweet potatoes into uniform pieces so they cook at the same speed.
- Make ahead: Prepare the base mixture a day before, refrigerate it, and just add marshmallows before baking.
- Balance the sweetness: If you want a less sweet version, reduce the marshmallow topping or add a pecan streusel instead.
- Add vanilla extract: A splash of vanilla can take the flavor up a notch.
- Roast instead of boiling: Roasting the potatoes deepens their caramelized flavor.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole shines on holiday buffets, but you don’t have to wait for Thanksgiving. Try pairing it with:
- Roast turkey or chicken
- Honey glazed ham
- Garlic green beans or roasted Brussels sprouts
- A fresh green salad to balance the sweetness

Nutritional Information (per serving, approx.)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 265 |
| Carbohydrates | 53g |
| Protein | 2g |
| Fat | 7g |
| Fiber | 5g |
| Sugar | 28g |
| Sodium | 95mg |
Frequently Asked Questions about Sweet Potato Casserole with Marshmallows
1. Can I make this casserole without marshmallows?
Yes, you can replace the marshmallows with a pecan crumble topping for more crunch and less sweetness.
2. How do I keep marshmallows from melting completely?
Add them halfway through baking or broil for 2–3 minutes at the end to get that golden top without losing the texture.
3. Can I freeze sweet potato casserole?
Yes, freeze the casserole before adding marshmallows. When ready to serve, thaw, reheat, and then top with marshmallows before baking.
4. Can I use canned sweet potatoes?
Absolutely! If pressed for time, canned sweet potatoes work as a shortcut. Just be sure to drain them well.
Conclusion
Your Sweet Potato Casserole with Marshmallows is more than just a recipe it’s a tradition, a memory-maker, and a comfort dish that brings everyone to the table. With its creamy sweetness and golden marshmallow topping, it delivers joy in every spoonful. Whether you prepare it for Thanksgiving dinner, Christmas gatherings, or even on a quiet Sunday night, this casserole will always remind you of home.
So go ahead try out this recipe, share it with loved ones, and make it part of your family’s comfort food traditions.

