Southern Thanksgiving Staple: How to Make Sweet Potato Casserole

Sweet potato casserole is a beloved Southern Thanksgiving side dish, blending creamy, spiced mashed sweet potatoes with a sweet topping that can be gooey marshmallows or crunchy pecans. This dessert-like side has roots in Southern cuisine, where sweet potatoes are a staple, and it became popularized in the mid-20th century with the advent of canned yams and marshmallow toppings. Perfect for holiday gatherings, it's rich, comforting, and easy to prepare ahead. In this article, we'll guide you through a classic version with marshmallow topping, compiled from authentic Southern recipes for that traditional flavor.

allrecipes.com

A golden-baked sweet potato casserole with toasted marshmallow topping.

Ingredients

This recipe serves 8-10 and takes about 1 hour, including baking time. It's drawn from classic Southern recipes for authenticity.

For the Filling:

• 3-4 pounds sweet potatoes (about 4 large), peeled and cubed (or 2 large cans of yams, drained)

• 1/2 cup granulated sugar (or brown sugar for deeper flavor)

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted

• 2 large eggs, beaten

• 1/2 cup milk or heavy cream

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)

• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)

• Pinch of salt

For the Topping:

• 3 cups mini marshmallows (or large ones halved)

• Alternatively, for pecan streusel: 1 cup chopped pecans, 1/2 cup brown sugar, 1/3 cup flour, 1/3 cup melted butter

simplyrecipes.com

Creamy sweet potato casserole scooped to show the fluffy interior under marshmallows.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Sweet Potatoes: If using fresh, place the cubed sweet potatoes in a large pot, cover with water, and boil until tender, about 15-20 minutes. Drain and mash until smooth. If using canned, simply drain and mash. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

2. Mix the Filling: In a large bowl, combine the mashed sweet potatoes with sugar, melted butter, eggs, milk, vanilla, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Beat until creamy and well incorporated. Pour the mixture into a greased 9x13-inch baking dish.

3. Add the Topping: For marshmallows, evenly spread them over the filling. For pecan streusel, mix the pecans, brown sugar, flour, and melted butter in a bowl until crumbly, then sprinkle over the top.

4. Bake: Place in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the filling is hot and bubbly and the topping is golden brown. If using marshmallows, watch closely to avoid burning—broil for 1-2 minutes for extra toasting if needed.

5. Serve: Let cool slightly before serving warm. It's a perfect complement to turkey, ham, or other Thanksgiving mains.

thepioneerwoman.com

Festive sweet potato casserole with marshmallows and pecans for a Southern twist.

Tips and Variations

• Make-Ahead: Assemble the casserole up to 2 days in advance, refrigerate, and bake on the day of. Add topping just before baking to keep it crisp.

• Pecan Topping Alternative: For a nutty crunch, use the streusel instead of marshmallows—it's a classic Southern variation.

• Lighten It Up: Substitute some sugar with maple syrup or use low-fat milk for a healthier version.

• Flavor Boost: Add a splash of orange juice or zest to the filling for a citrus note.

• Storage: Refrigerate leftovers for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven at 325°F to revive the topping.

This dish pairs wonderfully with other Southern favorites like collard greens or cornbread dressing.

Conclusion

Sweet potato casserole brings warmth and sweetness to your Thanksgiving table, embodying Southern hospitality and holiday tradition. Whether topped with marshmallows for a gooey delight or pecans for crunch, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. Try it this season and savor the comforting flavors of the South!