Rich Southern Sweet Potato Casserole

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Creamy, buttery, and indulgent, this Rich Southern Sweet Potato Casserole is a staple dish that brings warmth to any table. Whether you’re hosting a big holiday gathering or simply indulging in a cozy Sunday meal, this casserole will be the showstopper. With its smooth sweet potato base, gooey brown sugar layer, and fluffy marshmallow and pecan topping, it’s more dessert than side dish—and we wouldn’t have it any other way.

Every bite blends the velvety richness of sweet potatoes with the molasses-like depth of brown sugar, the crunch of toasted nuts, and the caramelized melt of marshmallows. It’s a beloved Southern classic, passed down through generations and always made with love (and a little extra butter).

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What Kind of Sweet Potatoes Should I Use?

Opt for classic orange-fleshed sweet potatoes. Varieties like Beauregard or Jewel are perfect, thanks to their natural sweetness and creamy texture when roasted or boiled. Their color also gives the casserole that signature golden-orange glow that looks as comforting as it tastes.

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Ingredients for the Rich Southern Sweet Potato Casserole

Sweet Potatoes – The star of the dish, offering natural sweetness, a smooth texture, and beautiful color.

Butter – For richness and depth in both the filling and the topping.

Brown Sugar – Adds that signature molasses flavor and caramel-like sweetness.

Eggs – Helps bind the filling and give it a slightly custardy consistency.

Milk – Lightens up the sweet potatoes and adds creaminess.

Vanilla Extract – A must-have for bringing out the warmth and flavor.

Salt – Just a pinch to balance the sweetness.

Mini Marshmallows – They toast into golden puffs, adding a melty-sweet finish.

Chopped Pecans and Walnuts – For crunch and a nutty contrast to the sweet mash.

Flour – Mixed into the crumble topping to create structure.

Cinnamon (optional) – A pinch of spice for added warmth, especially lovely in the colder months.

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How To Make the Rich Southern Sweet Potato Casserole

Step 1: Prepare the Sweet Potatoes

Peel and cube about 4 large sweet potatoes. Boil them in a large pot of salted water until fork-tender, about 15–20 minutes. Drain well, then mash until smooth.

Step 2: Make the Sweet Potato Filling

In a large bowl, combine the mashed sweet potatoes with softened butter, brown sugar, milk, eggs, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Mix until the ingredients are smooth and creamy.

Step 3: Prepare the Brown Sugar Nut Crumble

In a separate bowl, stir together chopped pecans and walnuts, flour, brown sugar, melted butter, and a hint of cinnamon if using. The mixture should resemble a chunky, nutty crumble.

Step 4: Assemble the Casserole

Spread the sweet potato mixture evenly into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle the brown sugar nut crumble over the top.

Step 5: Bake and Finish with Marshmallows

Bake the casserole at 350°F (175°C) for 25 minutes. Then, remove from the oven and sprinkle the mini marshmallows evenly over the top. Return to the oven and bake for another 10–15 minutes until the marshmallows are golden and gooey.

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How to Serve and Store Rich Southern Sweet Potato Casserole

This casserole is best served warm, right out of the oven when the marshmallows are still perfectly toasted. Pair it with roast turkey, ham, or even fried chicken for a comforting Southern feast. It also stands on its own beautifully as a dessert-style side dish.

To store leftovers, let the casserole cool completely, then cover tightly and refrigerate for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven at 325°F until warmed through to restore the marshmallow topping’s texture. For longer storage, you can freeze the casserole (without the marshmallows) for up to a month.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How far in advance can I make this?

You can prepare the sweet potato filling and nut crumble up to 2 days in advance. Assemble everything, cover, and refrigerate. Add marshmallows and bake when ready.

Can I use canned sweet potatoes?

Yes, but fresh is best. If using canned, make sure they are packed in water (not syrup) and are well-drained before mashing.

Can I leave out the marshmallows?

Absolutely. You can top with only the pecan crumble if you prefer a less sweet, more traditional version.

Is this dish gluten-free?

It can be! Just swap the all-purpose flour in the topping for a gluten-free flour blend.

What can I substitute for nuts?

If you’re avoiding nuts, use crushed pretzels or granola for crunch, or skip the crumble entirely and stick with just marshmallows.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes! This casserole scales easily. Use a larger baking dish or two standard ones, and increase the baking time slightly if making a thicker version.

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Want More Casserole Ideas?

If you’re loving this Rich Southern Sweet Potato Casserole, try these other irresistible comfort food casseroles:

• Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole for a cheesy, hearty pasta bake.
• Easy Weeknight Tater Tot Casserole if you’re craving a family-friendly favorite.
• Chicken Crescent Roll Casserole with creamy chicken wrapped in flaky rolls.
• Copycat Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole for a nostalgic breakfast or brunch hit.
• Mexican White Trash Casserole when you want flavor-packed comfort with a Tex-Mex twist.

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Save This Pin + Share Your Results

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest board so you’ll have it for Thanksgiving, Sunday dinners, or anytime that cozy craving hits.

And don’t forget to share how yours turned out in the comments. Did you go with just pecans? Maybe add a hint of nutmeg? I’d love to hear what spin you put on it.

For even more delicious Southern-inspired dishes and comforting casseroles, check out my daily recipe pins on Pinterest @hallarecipes.

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