Sweet potato casserole with marshmallows is a classic that hits all the cozy notes of sweet and savory. It’s straightforward to make and perfect for holiday gatherings or a comforting meal side dish. The prep is minimal, yet the result is rich in texture and flavor.
- Cuisine: American
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Servings: 6
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple ingredients that deliver great taste.
- Perfect balance of sweet and earthy flavors.
- Quick prep and cleanup, making it ideal for busy days.
- A crowd-pleaser, especially at festive gatherings.
Ingredients
- 5 sweet potatoes, peeled and sliced: Base of the dish, providing a naturally sweet and creamy texture.
- ½ cup packed brown sugar: Adds sweetness and a hint of molasses flavor.
- ¼ cup butter or margarine: Adds richness; margarine can be used if you prefer a non-dairy option.
- 3 tablespoons orange juice: Provides acidity and brightness to balance the sweetness.
- 1 pinch ground cinnamon: Adds warmth and depth; nutmeg could be an alternative.
- 1 (10.5 ounce) package miniature marshmallows: Provides a gooey, caramelized topping.
How to Make It
Step 1: Prepare Sweet Potatoes
Start by peeling and slicing the sweet potatoes into uniform pieces. This helps them cook evenly. Boil them in a large pot of water for about 20 minutes or until fork-tender. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Combine Ingredients
While the sweet potatoes are cooking, melt the butter or margarine in a small saucepan. Stir in the brown sugar, orange juice, and cinnamon until the sugar is dissolved. This blend will create a sweet glaze that complements the potatoes.
Step 3: Assemble Casserole
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the cooked sweet potatoes in an even layer in a baking dish. Pour the sugar and butter mixture over the top, ensuring all pieces are coated. You want an even distribution of flavors.
Step 4: Add Marshmallows and Bake
Evenly sprinkle the miniature marshmallows over the sweet potatoes. Bake in the preheated oven for 10 minutes, or until the marshmallows are golden brown and slightly puffed. Serve immediately for maximum gooey delight.
Recipe FAQs
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the sweet potatoes and sugar mixture in advance. Assemble and store them separately, then combine and bake with marshmallows when ready to serve.
What if I don’t have orange juice?
You can substitute apple juice or simply use water with a squeeze of lemon for added acidity.
How can I make this dish vegan?
Use margarine instead of butter and look for vegan marshmallows. The rest of the ingredients are already plant-based.
