Sweet Potato Casserole with vegan marshmallows

If you’re looking for a delicious and heartwarming dish to bring to your next family gathering, this Sweet Potato Casserole with vegan marshmallows is just the ticket! There’s something uniquely comforting about sweet potatoes topped with a fluffy layer of marshmallows. This recipe has been a staple in my home, especially during the holidays, and it never fails to impress. Plus, it’s so easy to make that even busy weeknights can include this delightful side dish!

What I love most about this recipe is how it brings everyone together around the table. The sweet aroma fills your kitchen while it bakes, making it hard for anyone to resist a taste. Whether it’s Thanksgiving or just a cozy family dinner, this casserole is sure to be a hit!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and minimal fuss, you’ll have this casserole ready in no time.
• Family-Friendly Appeal: Kids and adults alike will love the sweet flavors and gooey marshmallow topping.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prepare the filling ahead of time and simply bake when you’re ready to serve.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of sweet potatoes, spices, and crunchy pecans creates a mouthwatering treat.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering ingredients for this Sweet Potato Casserole with vegan marshmallows is a breeze! You’ll find that these are wholesome items you may already have on hand.

For the Sweet Potato Filling

• 4 large sweet potatoes (peeled and chopped into large chunks (around 9 cups worth))
• ½ cup unsalted butter (melted)
• 1 cup brown sugar
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ¼ teaspoon nutmeg

For the Pecan Topping

• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted)
• ⅓ cup brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 ¼ cups finely chopped pecan pieces

For the Topping

• 10 oz mini vegan marshmallows

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to get creative with these variation ideas:

• Add some fruit: Mixing in chopped apples or pears can add an extra layer of sweetness and texture.
• Spice it up: A dash of cayenne pepper can give your casserole a delightful kick!
• Use different nuts: Swap out pecans for walnuts or slivered almonds for a different flavor profile.
• Make it gluten-free: Use gluten-free flour or omit flour altogether in the pecan topping.

How to Make Sweet Potato Casserole with vegan marshmallows

Step 1: Prepare the Sweet Potatoes

Start by peeling and cutting your sweet potatoes into large chunks. Place them into a large saucepan and cover them with water before bringing it to a boil. Boiling helps soften them quickly, making them easy to mash later on.

Step 2: Mash the Sweet Potatoes

Once your sweet potatoes are fork-tender, drain them well and return them to the saucepan. Using a potato masher, mash them until smooth. This step is crucial because it’s where you’ll mix in all those delicious flavors—add in melted butter, brown sugar, salt, cinnamon, vanilla extract, and nutmeg until everything is well combined.

Step 3: Make the Pecan Topping

In another bowl, combine melted butter, brown sugar, all-purpose flour, salt, and pecan pieces. Mixing these ingredients creates a crunchy topping that contrasts beautifully with the creamy sweet potatoes.

Step 4: Assemble Your Casserole

Grease a 9 by 13 baking dish with cooking spray. Spread your sweet potato filling evenly on the bottom of the dish. Then sprinkle your pecan mixture over the top followed by an even layer of mini vegan marshmallows. It’s starting to look delicious already!

Step 5: Bake It Up!

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and bake for 25-35 minutes. Keep an eye on it towards the end; you want those vegan marshmallows golden brown but not burnt! The bubbling edges will tell you it’s ready.

Now you’re just moments away from serving up this amazing Sweet Potato Casserole with vegan marshmallows! Enjoy every bite as you share it with family and friends—you’ve earned it!

Pro Tips for Making Sweet Potato Casserole with vegan marshmallows

Making this sweet potato casserole is a delightful process, and a few expert tips can elevate your dish to perfection!

• Use fresh sweet potatoes: Fresh sweet potatoes will give you the best flavor and texture. Look for ones that feel firm and have smooth skin for an ideal mash.
• Don’t overboil the sweet potatoes: Boiling them just until fork-tender ensures they maintain some structure and won’t become watery. This is crucial for a creamy filling!
• Mix well but don’t over-mix: When combining your filling ingredients, mix just until everything is incorporated. Over-mixing can lead to a denser casserole instead of the light, fluffy texture we want.
• Watch the baking time closely: Ovens vary in temperature; keep an eye on your casserole during the last few minutes of baking to achieve that perfect golden brown on the vegan marshmallows without burning them.
• Let it rest before serving: Allowing your casserole to sit for about 10-15 minutes after baking helps it set up a bit, making it easier to serve while still maintaining its delicious flavor.

How to Serve Sweet Potato Casserole with vegan marshmallows

Presenting this delectable sweet potato casserole can be as fun as making it! Here are some ideas to make your dish shine at the dinner table.

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh herbs: A sprinkle of fresh parsley or chives adds a pop of color and freshness that complements the sweetness of the dish beautifully.
• Crispy fried onions: For an extra crunch and savory contrast, top with crispy fried onions just before serving. They add both texture and flavor.

Side Dishes

• Roasted Brussels sprouts: Their slight bitterness balances the sweetness of the casserole perfectly, and their crispy edges add great texture.
• Green bean almondine: This classic side features green beans sautéed with almonds, providing a crunchy contrast that pairs wonderfully with the creamy casserole.
• Quinoa salad: A light quinoa salad mixed with cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a tangy vinaigrette adds a refreshing element that complements the richness of the casserole.
• Stuffed acorn squash: Filled with wild rice and cranberries, stuffed acorn squash offers an earthy flavor profile that enhances the overall meal experience.

With these serving suggestions and pro tips, your sweet potato casserole with vegan marshmallows will not only taste amazing but also look stunning on your holiday table! Enjoy every moment of sharing this delightful dish with family and friends.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Sweet Potato Casserole with vegan marshmallows is perfect for meal prepping! You can make it ahead of time, allowing you to spend more time enjoying the company of your family during the holidays.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the casserole to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer leftovers to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• Let the casserole cool completely prior to freezing.
• Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil, or transfer to a freezer-safe container.
• Freeze for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or until heated through.
• For a crispier topping, broil for an additional 1-2 minutes at the end.

FAQs

Got questions? We’ve got answers! Here are some common queries about making this delicious dish.

Can I make Sweet Potato Casserole with vegan marshmallows ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare it a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just bake it before serving.

What can I use instead of vegan marshmallows in Sweet Potato Casserole?

If you prefer not to use marshmallows, you can top your casserole with toasted coconut or additional pecans for crunch and flavor!

How do I know when my Sweet Potato Casserole is done baking?

Your casserole is ready when it’s bubbly around the edges and the vegan marshmallows are golden brown on top. Keep an eye on it towards the end of baking!

Can I substitute sweet potatoes with other vegetables?

While sweet potatoes are traditional for this recipe, you could experiment with butternut squash or pumpkin for a similar texture and flavor.

Final Thoughts

This Sweet Potato Casserole with vegan marshmallows is not just a side dish; it’s a celebration of flavors that will surely become a favorite at your holiday table. The combination of sweet potatoes, crunchy pecans, and fluffy vegan marshmallows creates a comforting treat that everyone will love. I truly hope you enjoy making this recipe as much as I do! Share it with your loved ones, and let’s spread some joy together!