Dessert

Irresistible Old Fashioned Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe

ByLuna Ryder February 24, 2026February 24, 2026

Introduction

This Irresistible Old Fashioned Sweet Potato Casserole is a comforting classic that pairs creamy mashed sweet potatoes with a crunchy pecan topping and gooey marshmallows. Perfect for holiday dinners or cozy family meals, it delivers a delightful mix of flavors and textures everyone will love.

This image shows a white rectangular dish filled with a three-layer dessert. The bottom layer is a smooth, bright orange sweet potato mash. The middle layer has a mix of chopped pecans spread unevenly over the orange mash, adding texture and brown color. The top layer is a thick, even cover of small, toasted marshmallows, which are white with golden brown spots from being toasted. The dish sits on a white marbled surface with a striped cloth and gold spoon nearby. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

5 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
¼ cup whole milk
1 splash orange juice
3 tablespoons brown sugar
5 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
1 egg, lightly beaten
1 ½ teaspoons ground cinnamon
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
½ teaspoon salt
1 cup finely chopped pecans
3 tablespoons unsalted butter, slightly softened
½ cup dark brown sugar
1-2 cups mini marshmallows

Instructions

Step 1: Wash, peel, and cut the sweet potatoes into 1-inch cubes. Boil them in a large pot of lightly salted water for 15-20 minutes until very tender. Drain thoroughly and let steam dry for a few minutes.
Step 2: Transfer the hot sweet potatoes to a large bowl and mash until smooth. Add the whole milk, orange juice, brown sugar, softened butter, beaten egg, cinnamon, vanilla extract, and salt. Mix thoroughly until smooth and fluffy. Taste and adjust seasonings if desired.
Step 3: In a separate medium bowl, combine the chopped pecans, softened butter, and dark brown sugar. Mix until well combined and crumbly to make the topping.
Step 4: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread the sweet potato mixture evenly in the dish, then sprinkle the pecan topping evenly over the surface. Bake for 25-35 minutes until the filling is bubbling and the topping is golden brown.
Step 5: Remove the casserole from the oven and spread the mini marshmallows generously over the pecan topping. Return to the oven for 3-5 minutes until the marshmallows are golden brown and puffed. Watch carefully to prevent burning.
Step 6: Let the casserole cool on a wire rack for 10-15 minutes before serving warm. Enjoy!

Tips & Variations

For extra flavor, try adding a pinch of nutmeg or ginger to the sweet potato mixture.
Substitute pecans with walnuts if preferred or for a different nutty taste.
If you like a less sweet casserole, reduce the brown sugar in the sweet potato base slightly.
Use homemade marshmallows or skip them altogether for a less sweet topping.

Storage

Store leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, warm individual portions in the microwave or reheat the whole dish in a 350°F (175°C) oven until heated through, covering loosely with foil to prevent burning the marshmallows.

How to Serve

The image shows a close-up of a layered sweet potato casserole in a white rectangular dish placed on a white marbled surface. The bottom layer is bright orange sweet potato mash with a slightly chunky texture. On top of this layer, there are scattered brown pecan halves and smaller nut pieces. The final top layer is covered with many white marshmallows toasted to a golden brown with darker burnt spots, giving a soft and fluffy texture. The marshmallows form a thick, even layer over the nuts and sweet potato. A striped cloth is partially visible on the side, along with a blurred spoon and a woman’s hand holding a fork in the background. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I prepare this casserole in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the sweet potato mixture and pecan topping a day ahead. Assemble and bake just before serving for the best texture and flavor.

Can I make this casserole gluten-free?

This recipe is naturally gluten-free as it contains no wheat ingredients. Just be sure your marshmallows and other ingredients are labeled gluten-free if you have a sensitivity.