Thanksgiving Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe
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Introduction
When it comes to Thanksgiving dinner, the sides are just as important as the turkey, and sweet potato casserole has become an essential dish at many holiday tables. With its perfect balance of sweetness and spice, topped with gooey marshmallows and crunchy pecans, this dish is a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re hosting or bringing a dish to a family gathering, this Thanksgiving sweet potato casserole recipe is simple to prepare and guaranteed to be a hit. Let’s take a dive into this festive recipe that’s as easy to make as it is to enjoy.
Ingredients (Serves 8)
- 4 large sweet potatoes (find them fresh via Amazon Fresh)
- 1/4 cup butter (melted)
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup milk (or plant-based milk for a dairy-free version)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 2 large eggs (beaten)
- 1 cup mini marshmallows
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup (optional for extra flavor)
Equipment:
- Casserole dish
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer or whisk
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the sweet potatoes
Start by peeling and chopping the sweet potatoes into chunks. Place them in a large pot and cover with water. Bring to a boil and cook for about 15–20 minutes, or until they are fork-tender. Drain the water and transfer the sweet potatoes to a large mixing bowl.
Step 2: Mash the sweet potatoes
Using a potato masher or an electric mixer, mash the sweet potatoes until smooth. Add the melted butter, brown sugar, milk, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Mix well until everything is fully incorporated.
Step 3: Add the eggs
Add the beaten eggs to the mashed sweet potato mixture. Stir until the mixture is smooth and creamy. The eggs help bind everything together and create a rich, custardy texture.
Step 4: Transfer to a casserole dish
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish with butter or non-stick spray. Transfer the sweet potato mixture into the prepared casserole dish and spread it out evenly.
Step 5: Add the topping
Sprinkle the top of the casserole with mini marshmallows and chopped pecans. The marshmallows will melt and get golden brown as they bake, while the pecans add a crunchy texture that complements the sweet potatoes perfectly.
Step 6: Bake
Place the casserole in the oven and bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the marshmallows are golden brown and the casserole is heated through.
Step 7: Optional – Drizzle with maple syrup
For an extra touch of sweetness, drizzle the casserole with a tablespoon of maple syrup before serving. This step is optional, but it adds a lovely finish to the dish, enhancing the caramelized sweetness of the marshmallows and pecans.
Serving Tips
- Make Ahead – This casserole can be made a day ahead of time. After assembling the casserole, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate. When ready to serve, bake it at 350°F for 20–25 minutes, adding the marshmallows and pecans for the last 10 minutes of baking time.
- Dairy-Free Option – If you’re looking for a dairy-free version, simply swap the butter for a plant-based alternative and use plant-based milk (like almond or oat milk). There are also many dairy-free marshmallow options available.
- Add Flavor Variations – For extra flavor, try adding a teaspoon of orange zest or a dash of ground ginger to the sweet potato mixture. You can also substitute the pecans with chopped walnuts or even candied ginger for a unique twist.
- Serve with Other Sides – This casserole pairs beautifully with other Thanksgiving classics like roasted Brussels sprouts, mashed potatoes, and cranberry sauce. It’s also a great addition to your holiday brunch spread.
Nutritional Information (approximate per serving)
- Calories: 250–300 kcal
- Protein: 3–4g
- Fat: 12g
- Carbs: 35g
- Fiber: 5g
- Sugar: 20g
This Thanksgiving sweet potato casserole recipe is a comforting dish packed with fiber, healthy fats, and a touch of natural sweetness. With the richness of the sweet potatoes and the satisfying crunch from the pecans, this casserole is a well-rounded, indulgent yet nutritious side dish.
Conclusion
This Thanksgiving sweet potato casserole recipe is a festive and crowd-pleasing dish that’s perfect for any holiday table. With its sweet and creamy filling, topped with gooey marshmallows and crunchy pecans, it’s a true Thanksgiving classic that can be made ahead of time to save you stress on the big day. Whether you’re hosting or bringing a dish to a family gathering, this casserole is sure to impress.
If you try this recipe, be sure to pin it on Pinterest for your future Thanksgiving celebrations. We’d love to hear how you customize it with your favorite toppings or flavors! Comment below and let us know your go-to side dishes or tag us on Instagram with #EasyYumFood to share your creations!
For more holiday recipes, check out our Holiday Recipes section for more festive favorites, and browse our Quick Meals section for easy, everyday meals.