Ah, Sweet Potato Casserole with Marshmallow Topping—a dish that holds a special place in my heart and on my holiday table! Growing up, this velvety comfort food was an unwavering staple at family gatherings. Every Thanksgiving, I remember my grandmother bustling about the kitchen, her warm smile as she prepared this delightful blend of sweet potatoes and creamy goodness topped with fluffy marshmallows. The aroma wafting through the air made my mouth water in anticipation.
What I love most about this dish is its incredible combination of flavors and textures. It’s like a warm hug in a bowl! Not only is it sweet and satisfying, but that golden marshmallow topping brings a magical element to the table, providing a delicious contrast to the soft, sweet potatoes beneath. Even if you’re not a huge sweet potato fan, I guarantee this casserole will turn you into one!
What’s in Sweet Potato Casserole with Marshmallow Topping?
Let’s break down the star players in this delicious casserole:
Sweet Potatoes: The foundation of our dish, these naturally sweet tubers are rich in vitamins A and C. I prefer to use fresh sweet potatoes when I can get them, but canned ones can be a lifesaver in a pinch.
Butter: A classic fat that adds richness and a lovely flavor. I like to use unsalted butter to control the saltiness of the dish.
Brown Sugar: This adds sweetness and a hint of molasses flavor that perfectly complements the sweet potatoes. You can adjust the amount based on your sweetness preference!
Milk: For creaminess, I usually go with whole milk, but you can use any milk alternative you prefer. Almond or oat milk work well too.
Eggs: These give the casserole structure and help bind the mixture together beautifully.
Marshmallows: The crowning glory! Mini marshmallows are my go-to; they melt perfectly and create a delightful golden crust.
Is Sweet Potato Casserole with Marshmallow Topping Good for You?
You might be wondering, is this dish healthy? Well, it does have some benefits!
Sweet Potatoes: Packed with fiber, they help with digestion and keep you feeling full longer. They’re also loaded with antioxidants, which can boost your health.
Butter: While it adds rich flavor, it’s best to use it in moderation, especially for those watching their calorie intake.
Brown Sugar: It adds sweetness but can contribute to excess sugar intake, so feel free to adjust the amount if you like it less sweet.
Marshmallows: They’re certainly not the healthiest topping, but hey, everything in moderation! They add that nostalgic element that makes this dish so special.
Now that we’ve made ourselves a bit hungry, let’s dive into the nitty-gritty of making this casserole!
Ingredients List
This recipe makes about 8 servings. Here’s what you’ll need:
– 2 pounds sweet potatoes
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 cup brown sugar (adjust to taste)
– 1/2 cup milk (or milk alternative)
– 2 large eggs
– 1 1/2 cups mini marshmallows
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
How to Make Sweet Potato Casserole with Marshmallow Topping?
1. **Preheat Your Oven:** Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. **Prepare the Sweet Potatoes:** Peel the sweet potatoes and cut them into chunks. Boil them in a large pot of salted water until soft, about 15-20 minutes. Drain and let them cool slightly.
3. **Mash the Sweet Potatoes:** In a large mixing bowl, mash the sweet potatoes until smooth. I like to use a potato masher for a rustic feel, but a hand mixer can also work wonders!
4. **Mix Ingredients:** Add the melted butter, brown sugar, milk, eggs, vanilla extract, and salt to the mashed sweet potatoes. Blend well until everything is combined and creamy.
5. **Transfer to Baking Dish:** Pour the sweet potato mixture into a greased 2-quart baking dish and spread it evenly.
6. **Add the Marshmallows:** Sprinkle the mini marshmallows evenly over the top of the sweet potato mixture.
7. **Bake:** Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 30 minutes, or until the marshmallows have turned golden brown and the casserole is heated through.
8. **Cool and Serve:** Let it cool for a few minutes before serving. You won’t want to burn your tongue on that gooey marshmallow topping!
Sweet Suggestions for Serving
– **Nutty Twist:** Feel free to add some chopped pecans or walnuts on top before baking for added crunch.
– **Spice It Up:** A pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg can elevate the flavor even more!
– **Make-Ahead:** You can prepare the sweet potato mixture a day ahead, store it in the fridge, and top with marshmallows right before baking.
This Sweet Potato Casserole with Marshmallow Topping truly is a show-stopper. I encourage you to whip it up for your next family gathering, holiday meal, or cozy dinner. Trust me, this dish brings back the warmest memories, and I can’t wait for you to create yours! So grab those sweet potatoes and let the baking begin. Can’t wait to hear how yours turns out!