Ah, the sweet potato casserole—a classic dish that brings a little slice of Southern comfort right to your dinner table! This Easy Southern Sweet Potato Casserole is a treasured family recipe that I absolutely love making, especially around the holidays. I remember the first time I tried it at my friend’s Thanksgiving dinner. I was hooked on the buttery sweetness and those glorious gooey marshmallows on top! I instantly knew I had to learn how to make it for my own gatherings.
Not only is this dish irresistibly delicious, but it also evokes memories of family feasts and laughter ringing through the house. It’s a recipe that’s easy to make, and every time I serve it, I can see everyone digging in and savoring every bite. So, roll up your sleeves, because you’re in for a treat!
What’s in Easy Southern Sweet Potato Casserole?
Sweet Potatoes: The star of the show! These delightful tubers have a natural sweetness and creaminess that makes the base of our casserole simply divine. I usually go for large sweet potatoes, which are about 2 pounds in total, to ensure I’ve got plenty to serve.
Sugar and Brown Sugar: A blend of these sweeteners adds depth to the flavor. I think the combination beautifully caramelizes as it cooks, lending a rich sweetness that you won’t be able to resist.
Milk: This adds creaminess to the mash. I typically use whole or 2% milk, depending on what I have on hand.
Unsalted Butter: Because who doesn’t love a little more butter? The melted butter brings in a wonderfully rich flavor that pairs so well with sweet potatoes.
Eggs: These are crucial for binding all the ingredients together and creating a nice, fluffy texture.
Vanilla Extract: A splash of vanilla elevates the whole dish, giving it that warm, homey aroma. I always use pure vanilla extract for the best flavor.
Cinnamon: Just a hint of ground cinnamon gives the casserole a classic autumn flavor that feels oh-so comforting.
Salt: Even a pinch of salt is essential to balance the sweetness and enhance the flavors.
Miniature Marshmallows: Oh yes, these are the finishing touch! They melt beautifully and form a golden, crispy layer that everyone fights over.
Is Easy Southern Sweet Potato Casserole Good for You?
This casserole is definitely a treat, and while it may not be what you’d call “health food,” it does have some redeeming qualities!
Sweet Potatoes: These vibrant tubers are loaded with vitamins A and C, fiber, and antioxidants, making them a healthier choice compared to regular potatoes. Plus, they’re great for keeping your eyes and skin healthy!
Sugar: I won’t lie; this recipe does call for quite a bit of sugar. You can, however, cut down the amounts of white and brown sugar if you’re looking to lighten it up a bit.
The deliciousness of this casserole might mean it’s best reserved for special occasions rather than everyday meals. Just enjoy it in moderation and savor every bite!
Ingredients
– 4 large sweet potatoes (about 2 pounds)
– 1/2 cup sugar
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 2 cups miniature marshmallows
– additional cinnamon for sprinkling (optional)
*Servings: About 8-10, depending on portion size.*
How to Make Easy Southern Sweet Potato Casserole?
1. **Preheat the Oven**: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) so it’s nice and warm by the time you’re ready to bake your casserole.
2. **Prepare the Sweet Potatoes**: Peel and cut those sweet potatoes into chunks. Pop them into a large pot and cover with water. Boil until tender—this should take about 15-20 minutes. Drain them and let them cool for a bit.
3. **Mash the Sweet Potatoes**: Now it’s time to mash! In a large mixing bowl, mash the sweet potatoes until they’re nice and smooth. You can totally use a potato masher or, if you’re feeling fancy, a hand mixer for an extra creamy texture.
4. **Mix Ingredients**: Add in the sugar, brown sugar, milk, melted butter, eggs, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and salt to your mashed sweet potatoes. Mix everything together until fully combined and luscious.
5. **Transfer to Baking Dish**: Pour that beautiful mixture into a lightly greased rustic glass baking dish. Spread it out evenly, and get ready for the next step!
6. **Top with Marshmallows**: Time for the fun part! Sprinkle those miniature marshmallows on top of the sweet potato mixture.
7. **Bake**: Pop your casserole in the preheated oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until those marshmallows are golden brown and crispy. Trust me, the smell will have your mouth watering!
8. **Garnish and Serve**: Take it out of the oven and let it cool just a tad (if you can resist!). If you like, sprinkle a pinch of extra cinnamon on top for a little added aroma.
Sweet Tips & Twists
– Want to make it ahead of time? No problem! You can prepare the casserole up to the baking step, cover it tightly, and refrigerate overnight. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if you’re baking straight from the fridge.
– Feel like mixing things up? Try adding chopped pecans or walnuts for some extra crunch or a dash of nutmeg for a different spice twist!
– This casserole can be served warm as a side dish—but let’s be honest, it’s amazing as dessert too. A scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side wouldn’t hurt either!
I hope you’ll give this Easy Southern Sweet Potato Casserole a chance to shine at your next meal—it’s a sure crowd-pleaser! If you try it, I’d love to hear about your experience and any special twists you added. Happy cooking!
