Name: Rich Southern Sweet Potato Casserole: 5 Irresistible Tips
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Cuisine: Southern
Ingredients: 3 pounds sweet potatoes; 4 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted); 1/2 cup brown sugar (light or dark); 2 large eggs (beaten); 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/3 cup whole milk or heavy cream; 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 cup chopped pecans; 1/2 cup brown sugar (for topping); 2 tablespoons melted butter (for topping); 1/4 teaspoon salt (for topping); 2 cups mini marshmallows

Jump to Recipe·Leave a Review

Rich Southern Sweet Potato Casserole is a beloved dish that brings warmth and comfort to any gathering. This delightful casserole is not just a dish; it’s a celebration of flavors that combines the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with rich butter and a crunchy pecan topping. The fluffy marshmallows on top create a heavenly contrast that makes this dish the centerpiece of any holiday table. With its Southern charm and mouthwatering taste, it’s perfect for Thanksgiving or any family dinner.

Why You’ll Love This Rich Southern Sweet Potato

This Rich Southern Sweet Potato Casserole is a perfect blend of flavors and textures. Here are several reasons why this dish stands out:

It’s a crowd-pleaser that everyone loves.
Perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors.
Easy to prepare, making it ideal for busy holiday cooking.
Can double as a dessert due to its sweet profile.
Packed with nutrients from sweet potatoes.
Offers a fantastic make-ahead option for stress-free meal prep.
Features classic Southern flavors that tie the meal together.
Versatile enough to serve at potlucks or family gatherings.

Ingredients for Rich Southern Sweet Potato

Gather these items:

3 pounds sweet potatoes
4 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted)
1/2 cup brown sugar (light or dark)
2 large eggs (beaten)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/3 cup whole milk or heavy cream
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup chopped pecans
1/2 cup brown sugar (for topping)
2 tablespoons melted butter (for topping)
1/4 teaspoon salt (for topping)
2 cups mini marshmallows

How to Make Rich Southern Sweet Potato Step-by-Step

Step 1: Peel and chop sweet potatoes. Boil in a large pot of water until fork-tender, about 15–20 minutes. Drain and mash until smooth.
Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, combine mashed sweet potatoes with melted butter, brown sugar, eggs, vanilla, milk, cinnamon, and salt. Mix until well blended.
Step 3: Spread the sweet potato mixture evenly into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
Step 4: In a small bowl, combine chopped pecans, brown sugar, melted butter, and a pinch of salt. Sprinkle this topping evenly over the sweet potato base.
Step 5: Add a single layer of mini marshmallows on top of the pecan mixture.
Step 6: Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 25–30 minutes, until marshmallows are golden brown and filling is set. Broil for 1–2 minutes at the end for extra toasting, if desired.
Step 7: Let the casserole rest for 5–10 minutes before serving for best texture and slicing.

Rich Southern Sweet Potato Casserole: 5 Irresistible Tips - Rich Southern Sweet Potato - main visual representation

Pro Tips for the Perfect Rich Southern Sweet Potato

Keep these in mind:

This is a fantastic make-ahead recipe.
It balances savory and sweet perfectly.
It can double as a dessert-style treat.
Consider adding a hint of nutmeg for extra flavor.
Ensure the sweet potatoes are well-mashed for a creamy texture.

Best Ways to Serve Rich Southern Sweet Potato

Here are some delicious serving ideas:

Pair with roasted meats for a comforting meal.
Serve alongside Southern-style greens for a complete dish.
Enjoy as a comforting dessert with whipped cream.

How to Store and Reheat Rich Southern Sweet Potato

To store leftovers, cover and refrigerate the dish for up to 3 days. When ready to eat, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, which is about 15–20 minutes. This makes it a perfect meal prep option!

Frequently Asked Questions About Rich Southern Sweet Potato

What’s the secret to perfect Rich Southern Sweet Potato?

The secret to perfecting this Rich Southern Sweet Potato dish lies in using fresh, high-quality sweet potatoes and ensuring they are well-mashed for a creamy consistency. Adding the right spices enhances the overall flavor.

Can I make Rich Southern Sweet Potato ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare this Rich Southern Sweet Potato casserole ahead of time. Assemble it and refrigerate before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking straight from the fridge.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Rich Southern Sweet Potato?

To avoid common mistakes, make sure the sweet potatoes are fully cooked before mashing. Also, be cautious not to overbake, as this can lead to dry casserole. Timing is key for that perfect texture!

Variations of Rich Southern Sweet Potato You Can Try

Here are some variations to consider:

Add coconut milk for a tropical twist.
Incorporate bacon for a savory flavor contrast.
Try adding different nuts like walnuts or almonds for texture.
Mix in maple syrup instead of brown sugar for a different sweetness.

Rich Southern Sweet Potato Casserole: 5 Irresistible Tips - Rich Southern Sweet Potato - additional detail

For more delicious recipes, check out our Chocolate Eclair Cake or Creamy Tuscan Scallops. If you’re looking for a comforting dessert, try our Halloween Chocolate Chip Cookies or Greek Chili Chicken Alfredo.

For more information on the health benefits of sweet potatoes, you can visit Healthline.