There’s something so comforting about a warm sweet potato casserole topped with golden marshmallows and crunchy pecans.
This dish combines creamy mashed sweet potatoes, a buttery pecan streusel, and gooey marshmallows for the ultimate holiday side.
It’s rich, cozy, and always a crowd-pleaser at the table.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This casserole layers creamy, spiced sweet potatoes with a nutty pecan streusel.
The toasted marshmallows add sweetness and a beautiful golden finish.
It’s easy to make ahead and bake fresh when serving.
Both kids and adults love the combination of textures and flavors.
What You’ll Need (Ingredient Highlights)
Sweet potatoes provide the creamy, earthy base of the dish.
Dark brown sugar adds caramel-like depth and sweetness.
Cinnamon, nutmeg, and vanilla bring warmth and cozy spice.
Pecans create a buttery crunch in the streusel topping.
Mini marshmallows melt into a gooey, golden layer on top.
Pro Tips Before You Start
Roast the sweet potatoes instead of boiling for deeper flavor.
Mash while warm for a smoother consistency.
Add orange zest and juice for a fresh citrus note.
Toast pecans lightly before mixing into the streusel.
Broil at the end for extra-toasty marshmallows—just watch closely.
How to Make Sweet Potato Casserole with Marshmallow & Pecan
Step 1 – Roast the sweet potatoes
Preheat oven to 425°F (218°C). Roast sweet potatoes on a baking sheet until tender.
Cool slightly, peel, and transfer flesh to a large bowl. Reduce oven to 375°F (190°C).
Step 2 – Make the sweet potato mash
Mash the sweet potatoes until smooth.
Mix in butter, milk or cream, eggs, sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and optional orange zest and juice.
Spread into a greased 9×13-inch dish.
Step 3 – Prepare the pecan streusel
Combine pecans, flour, brown sugar, butter, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt.
Stir until crumbly, then sprinkle evenly over the sweet potato base.
Step 4 – Bake the casserole
Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes until hot and the streusel is crisp.
Step 5 – Add the marshmallows
Top with mini marshmallows.
Bake 8–10 minutes until golden and slightly melted.
For deeper color, broil briefly.
Step 6 – Garnish and serve
Sprinkle with smoked sea salt if desired. Rest 5 minutes before serving warm.
What to Serve Them With
Pair with roasted turkey or chicken for a classic holiday spread.
Serve alongside green beans or Brussels sprouts for balance.
Enjoy with stuffing and gravy for the perfect Thanksgiving plate.
Variations / Substitutions
Use walnuts or almonds instead of pecans.
Swap marshmallows for a whipped cream topping after baking.
Make it dairy-free with almond milk and vegan butter.
Skip the streusel and double the marshmallows for a simpler version.
Storage & Leftovers
Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Reheat covered at 350°F (176°C) until warmed through.
Freeze without the marshmallow topping for up to 2 months.
FAQs
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, prepare it without the marshmallows, refrigerate up to 2 days, then bake and add marshmallows before serving.
Can I use canned sweet potatoes?
Yes, but roasted fresh sweet potatoes give better flavor.
Can I reduce the sugar?
You can cut back slightly in both the mash and topping without affecting texture.
What if I don’t like marshmallows?
Leave them off and just enjoy the pecan streusel topping.
Can I make this nut-free?
Yes, omit pecans and replace with oat streusel or skip the topping.
How do I prevent marshmallows from burning?
Bake just until golden, and watch closely if broiling.
Can I use large marshmallows instead of mini?
Yes, just cut them in half for more even coverage.
Can I make this in a smaller dish?
Yes, halve the recipe and bake in an 8×8-inch dish.
Is this casserole served as a side or dessert?
Traditionally it’s a holiday side, but it can double as a sweet treat.
How do I make it vegan?
Use non-dairy milk, egg replacers, and vegan marshmallows.
Final Thoughts
This sweet potato casserole is a cozy mix of creamy, crunchy, and gooey layers.
It’s simple yet festive, perfect for holiday gatherings or any comforting meal.
Once you try it, it will become a family tradition.
