Sweet Potato Casserole with vegan marshmallows

If you’re looking for a dish that brings warmth and joy to your holiday table, this Sweet Potato Casserole with vegan marshmallows is just what you need! It’s not just another side dish; it’s a delightful blend of sweet, creamy potatoes topped with crunchy pecans and fluffy vegan marshmallows. Every bite is like a hug from your grandma, making it an enduring favorite during Thanksgiving and all those cozy family gatherings.

This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights too! Its simple preparation lets you whip it up without much fuss, making it a go-to for any occasion. I can’t wait for you to try it!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With straightforward steps, you’ll have this casserole in the oven in no time.
• Family-Friendly Appeal: Everyone loves the sweet and gooey topping—kids and adults alike will be asking for seconds!
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prepare this dish in advance, letting you enjoy more time with your loved ones.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of sweet potatoes, warm spices, and vegan marshmallows creates a comforting and satisfying dish.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect not just for holidays but also as a comforting addition to any meal.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To create this scrumptious casserole, you’ll need some simple, wholesome ingredients that are easy to find. Let’s gather everything together!

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

One of the best things about this casserole is its flexibility! Feel free to make it your own with these fun variations:

• Add Some Fruit: Mix in some chopped apples or pears for added sweetness and texture.
• Try Different Nuts: If pecans aren’t your favorite, walnuts or almonds make great substitutes for the topping.
• Spice It Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or ginger for a little kick!
• Go Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with almond flour or gluten-free flour blend.

How to Make Sweet Potato Casserole with vegan marshmallows

Step 1: Boil the Sweet Potatoes

Start by peeling and cutting your sweet potatoes into large chunks. Place them in a big saucepan, cover them with water, and bring it to a boil. Boiling helps to soften the potatoes quickly so they become fluffy when mashed.

Step 2: Mash the Potatoes

Once the sweet potatoes are fork-tender (they should fall apart easily), drain them and return them to the saucepan. Grab your potato masher and mash away! This step is crucial because it gives your casserole its creamy texture. Then add in the melted butter, brown sugar, salt, cinnamon, vanilla extract, and nutmeg. Mix until everything is well combined.

Step 3: Prepare the Pecan Topping

In a separate bowl, combine melted butter, brown sugar, all-purpose flour, salt, and pecan pieces. Stir until everything is thoroughly mixed. This topping adds a delightful crunch that perfectly complements the smooth filling.

Step 4: Assemble Your Casserole

Grease a 9 by 13 baking dish with cooking spray. Spread the sweet potato filling evenly across the bottom of the dish. Then sprinkle your pecan topping on top followed by an even layer of mini vegan marshmallows. This layering creates an irresistible contrast between textures!

Step 5: Bake Until Golden Brown

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Bake your casserole for about 25-35 minutes or until it’s bubbly and the vegan marshmallows are golden brown on top. Keep an eye on it towards the end so you achieve that perfect golden hue without burning!

Enjoy sharing this Sweet Potato Casserole with vegan marshmallows at your next gathering—it’s sure to become a beloved tradition!

Pro Tips for Making Sweet Potato Casserole with vegan marshmallows

Making the perfect sweet potato casserole is all about attention to detail and a few handy tricks. Here are some pro tips to ensure your dish turns out wonderfully every time!

• Use fresh sweet potatoes – Freshly picked sweet potatoes will have the best flavor and texture, giving your casserole a deliciously natural sweetness.
• Mash thoroughly – For a creamy filling, make sure to mash the sweet potatoes until there are no lumps. This creates a smooth consistency that pairs perfectly with the fluffy vegan marshmallows.
• Watch the baking time – Keep an eye on your casserole as it bakes, especially towards the end. The goal is to achieve that perfect golden-brown color on the marshmallows without burning them.
• Customize your toppings – Feel free to get creative! You can add other nuts like walnuts or even sprinkle some shredded coconut for additional flavor and texture.
• Make ahead – This casserole can be prepared a day in advance. Simply assemble it up to the baking step, cover, and refrigerate. When you’re ready to serve, just pop it in the oven!

How to Serve Sweet Potato Casserole with vegan marshmallows

Presenting your sweet potato casserole beautifully can enhance the dining experience for your family and guests. Here are some ideas on how to serve this delightful dish.

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh herbs – Sprinkle some chopped parsley or chives on top before serving for a touch of color and freshness.
• Toasted pecans – Add a few extra toasted pecans on top for added crunch and nutty flavor that complements the dish perfectly.

Side Dishes

• Green Bean Almondine – Crisp-tender green beans sautéed with slivered almonds create a lovely contrast with the sweetness of the casserole.
• Roasted Brussels Sprouts – These savory sprouts caramelize beautifully in the oven, offering a deliciously bitter counterpart to the sweet notes of your casserole.
• Quinoa Salad with Cranberries and Pecans – A refreshing quinoa salad packed with tart cranberries and crunchy pecans brings bright flavors that balance well with rich dishes.
• Cornbread Muffins – Soft and slightly sweet cornbread muffins are always a hit! They provide an excellent textural contrast alongside your creamy casserole.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your sweet potato casserole with vegan marshmallows will not only taste amazing but look gorgeous on any holiday table! Enjoy making memories around this comforting dish.

Make Ahead and Storage

This sweet potato casserole with vegan marshmallows is perfect for meal prep, making it an excellent choice for busy holidays or weeknight dinners. You can prepare it in advance and simply bake it when you’re ready to enjoy!

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the casserole to cool completely before storing.
• Cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing

• To freeze, let the casserole cool completely.
• Transfer it to an airtight container or wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil.
• Freeze for up to 2-3 months. For best results, label the container with the date.

Reheating

• Thaw the casserole in the refrigerator overnight if frozen.
• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Cover the dish with foil to prevent drying out and bake for about 25 minutes, or until heated through. Remove the foil for the last 5-10 minutes to crisp up the top.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about this delightful dish.

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

Absolutely! You can prepare everything up until baking, cover it, and refrigerate. Just pop it in the oven when you’re ready to serve!

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

If you prefer a different nut or need a nut-free option, consider using walnuts or sunflower seeds. Both will add a lovely crunch!

How do I know when my sweet potato casserole is done baking?

The 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 to avoid burning!

Can I use fresh sweet potatoes instead of canned?

Yes! Fresh sweet potatoes provide a wonderful texture and flavor. Just ensure you cook them until fork-tender before mashing.

Final Thoughts

I hope this recipe brings warmth and joy to your holiday table! This sweet potato casserole with vegan marshmallows is not just a dish; it’s a celebration of flavors that everyone will love. Enjoy making it as much as your family will enjoy eating it. Happy cooking!