Marshmallow Sweet Potato Casserole With Pecan Crunch Recipe

Let me share one of my favorite holiday recipes that’ll make your guests fight over seconds. This Marshmallow Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecan Crunch combines velvety mashed sweet potatoes, warm spices, and a double-textured topping that’s pure magic. I’ve spent years perfecting the balance between the buttery pecan crumble and those perfectly toasted marshmallows. Trust me, once you’ve mastered this version, you’ll never go back to plain sweet potatoes again.

Why This Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe Works

While many sweet potato casseroles can be overly sweet or mushy, this recipe strikes the perfect balance of flavors and textures.

I’ve perfected this dish over years of holiday cooking, combining creamy mashed sweet potatoes with a brown sugar-pecan topping that adds delightful crunch.

The marshmallows create that classic golden-brown crown you’ll love, while warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg enhance the natural sweetness.

Essential Ingredients and Substitutions

To make this beloved holiday casserole, you’ll need four pounds of medium sweet potatoes as your foundation.

For the topping, gather 2 cups mini marshmallows, ½ cup chopped pecans, ¼ cup brown sugar, and 4 tablespoons melted butter.

I like using Ceylon cinnamon for extra warmth, but regular cinnamon works perfectly too.

Can’t have nuts? Simply double the marshmallows for an equally delicious result.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Getting these sweet potatoes ready is my favorite part – I always feel like I’m creating holiday magic!

Start by boiling 4 large sweet potatoes until tender, about 20-25 minutes. While they’re cooking, I love how the kitchen fills with that sweet aroma.

Mash them with butter, milk, and vanilla, then spread into a buttered 9×13 baking dish. Top with mini marshmallows and your pecan mixture before baking at 375°F until golden brown.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

Since holiday gatherings can get hectic, I’m thrilled to share that this sweet potato casserole is perfect for making ahead. You can prepare the whole dish up to two days in advance – just keep it covered in the fridge. When you’re ready, let it sit at room temperature for 30 minutes, then bake as directed. Leftovers will stay fresh for 3-4 days when properly refrigerated.

Recipe Variations and Serving Suggestions

While this classic marshmallow-topped casserole is delicious as-is, I’ve discovered several mouthwatering variations that’ll keep your holiday table exciting.

Try swapping pecans for candied walnuts, or adding a splash of bourbon for depth. You can also mix in crushed pineapple or orange zest for a tropical twist.

For serving, I love pairing it with glazed ham or roasted turkey.