Sweet Potato Casserole with vegan marshmallows

This classic sweet potato casserole with vegan marshmallows is a delightful side dish perfect for Thanksgiving and holiday gatherings! It combines the rich flavor of sweet potatoes with a sweet, crunchy topping that will impress your family and guests. With its creamy texture and the lightness from vegan marshmallows, this dish stands out as a favorite on any table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Irresistible Flavor: The combination of sweet potatoes, brown sugar, and spices creates a mouthwatering taste that everyone will love.
• Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this casserole is easy enough for beginner cooks.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: While it shines during holidays, you can enjoy this dish year-round as a comforting side.
• Vegan-Friendly: Using vegan marshmallows ensures that this recipe can be enjoyed by those following plant-based diets.
• Crowd-Pleaser: This casserole serves 12, making it ideal for large gatherings or family dinners.

Tools and Preparation

To make the perfect sweet potato casserole, having the right tools will make your cooking experience smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large saucepan
• Potato masher
• Mixing bowls
• 9×13 baking dish
• Cooking spray

Importance of Each Tool

• Large saucepan: Essential for boiling the sweet potatoes until tender, ensuring they mash easily.
• Potato masher: Helps create a smooth filling by easily mashing the boiled sweet potatoes.
• Mixing bowls: Necessary for combining ingredients separately before layering them in the baking dish.

Ingredients

This classic sweet potato casserole with vegan marshmallows is a must make side dish for Thanksgiving and the holidays! Wow your family with this amazing recipe.

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 Topping

• 10 oz mini vegan marshmallows

How to Make Sweet Potato Casserole with Vegan Marshmallows

Step 1: Boil the Sweet Potatoes

1. Peel and cut the sweet potatoes into large chunks. Place them into a large saucepan.
2. Cover them with water and bring to a boil.
3. Boil the sweet potatoes until fork-tender. They should fall apart easily when pierced.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

1. Drain the cooked sweet potatoes and return them to the saucepan.
2. Mash them using a potato masher until smooth.
3. Add melted butter, brown sugar, salt, cinnamon, vanilla extract, and nutmeg to the mashed sweet potatoes. Mix until well combined.

Step 3: Make the Pecan Topping

1. In a separate bowl, combine melted butter, brown sugar, all-purpose flour, salt, and pecan pieces. Stir until fully mixed.

Step 4: Assemble and Bake

1. Grease a 9×13 baking dish with cooking spray.
2. Spread the sweet potato filling evenly in the prepared dish.
3. Evenly distribute the pecan topping over the sweet potato layer.
4. Top with mini vegan marshmallows in an even layer.
5. Bake at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for 25-35 minutes or until bubbly and golden brown on top.

Now you have an exquisite sweet potato casserole with vegan marshmallows ready to impress at your next gathering! Enjoy every bite!

How to Serve Sweet Potato Casserole with vegan marshmallows

This sweet potato casserole with vegan marshmallows is a delightful dish that can enhance any meal. Here are some creative ways to serve it and make your dining experience even more enjoyable.

Family Style

• Serve the casserole directly from the baking dish to create a warm, inviting atmosphere at the table. Let everyone help themselves.

Individual Portions

• Use ramekins or small baking dishes to create individual servings. This presentation is perfect for holiday dinners and adds an elegant touch.

With a Drizzle of Maple Syrup

• For an extra touch of sweetness, drizzle a little maple syrup over the top before serving. It pairs wonderfully with the flavors of sweet potatoes and pecans.

On a Bed of Greens

• Serve the casserole on a bed of fresh spinach or mixed greens for a colorful contrast. This adds freshness and balances the richness of the dish.

As a Breakfast Treat

• Leftover sweet potato casserole can be enjoyed for breakfast! Warm it up and serve it alongside pancakes or waffles for a delicious morning treat.

How to Perfect Sweet Potato Casserole with vegan marshmallows

To ensure your sweet potato casserole turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Sweet Potatoes: Freshly harvested sweet potatoes have better flavor and texture than canned varieties. Opt for firm, unblemished potatoes.

• Mash Thoroughly: Ensure that you mash the sweet potatoes until smooth for a creamy texture. Avoid lumps for an even consistency.

• Adjust Sweetness: Taste your mixture before baking. If you prefer it sweeter, feel free to add more brown sugar or maple syrup to suit your taste.

• Watch the Baking Time: Keep an eye on your casserole during the last few minutes of baking. You want golden brown vegan marshmallows without burning them.

• Experiment with Toppings: Besides pecans, try adding walnuts or coconut flakes for variety in flavors and textures.

Best Side Dishes for Sweet Potato Casserole with vegan marshmallows

Pairing side dishes with your sweet potato casserole can elevate your meal. Here are some excellent options:

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic complement the sweetness of the casserole beautifully.

2. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: These provide a crunchy texture and slight bitterness that balances out the sweetness.

3. Green Bean Almondine: Lightly sautéed green beans topped with toasted almonds add freshness and crunch to your plate.

4. Quinoa Salad: A quinoa salad with fresh vegetables offers protein and fiber, enhancing your meal’s nutritional value.

5. Cornbread Muffins: Soft, warm cornbread muffins make a perfect accompaniment, providing a savory contrast to sweet potatoes.

6. Cranberry Sauce: The tartness of cranberry sauce cuts through the sweetness, creating an appealing balance on your palate.

7. Stuffed Acorn Squash: This seasonal dish filled with grains and nuts adds depth to your holiday table while being visually stunning.

8. Glazed Carrots: Sweetly glazed carrots bring vibrant color and additional sweetness, making them a delightful pairing with your casserole.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoid common pitfalls while making this sweet potato casserole to ensure a delicious dish.

• Incorrect Sweet Potato Preparation: Make sure to peel and chop the sweet potatoes into uniform chunks. This helps them cook evenly and achieve the right texture when mashed.
• Overmixing the Filling: When combining the filling ingredients, mix just until blended. Overmixing can lead to a gummy texture in your casserole.
• Skipping the Pecan Topping: The pecan topping adds a delightful crunch. Don’t skip it; instead, ensure it’s evenly mixed for consistent flavor and texture.
• Neglecting to Grease the Baking Dish: Always grease your baking dish before adding the sweet potato mixture. This prevents sticking and makes serving easier.
• Ignoring Oven Temperature: Bake at 350°F as specified. Higher temperatures can burn the marshmallows before the sweet potatoes are fully heated through.
• Not Watching the Marshmallows: Keep an eye on the casserole towards the end of baking. Marshmallows can turn from golden brown to burnt quickly.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover casserole in an airtight container.
• It will keep well for up to 3-5 days in the fridge.

Freezing Sweet Potato Casserole with vegan marshmallows

• To freeze, allow it to cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container.
• The casserole can be frozen for up to 2 months for best quality.

Reheating Sweet Potato Casserole with vegan marshmallows

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and cover with foil. Bake for 20-30 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat individual portions on medium power for about 1-2 minutes or until hot.
• Stovetop: Place in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated thoroughly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making sweet potato casserole with vegan marshmallows:

Can I use regular marshmallows instead of vegan marshmallows?

You can use regular marshmallows if you prefer, but this recipe is designed around vegan options for a plant-based treat.

What can I substitute for butter in this recipe?

For a dairy-free option, try using coconut oil or a plant-based butter alternative that melts well.

How do I make my sweet potato filling sweeter?

If you like your filling sweeter, you can add more brown sugar or maple syrup according to taste.

Can I prepare this casserole in advance?

Absolutely! You can prepare it a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator before baking. Just bake it when you’re ready.

Is there a gluten-free version of this recipe?

Yes! Simply use gluten-free flour for the pecan topping instead of all-purpose flour.

Final Thoughts

This sweet potato casserole with vegan marshmallows is not only a festive side dish but also a versatile addition to any meal throughout the year. Its blend of flavors and textures makes it appealing to everyone at your table. Feel free to customize it by adding nuts, spices, or even different toppings according to your preference!