Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecan Topping and Mini Marshmallows Recipe
This Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe with Canned Yams is an easy, creamy, and crowd-pleasing dish perfect for family gatherings or holiday meals. Using canned yams makes preparation quick and simple, while the crunchy pecan topping adds a delightful texture contrast. Optional mini marshmallows create a gooey, sweet finish.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 8 slices 1x
- Category: Baking
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Scale
For the Casserole
- 2 cans canned yams
- 1/2 cup butter, melted
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup milk or almond milk
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Topping
- 1 cup pecans, chopped
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/3 cup butter, melted
- 1 cup mini marshmallows (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Baking Dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease an 8×8-inch baking dish with butter to prevent sticking and ensure easy removal after baking.
- Boil the Canned Yams: Transfer the canned yams along with their liquid into a medium saucepan. Boil for 5 to 10 minutes until the yams are tender and heated through, enhancing their softness for mashing.
- Mash and Mix Sweet Potato Base: Mash the boiled sweet potatoes until smooth. Add sugar, melted butter, milk, eggs, and vanilla extract. Stir well until all ingredients are combined into a creamy mixture.
- Spread Sweet Potato Mixture: Evenly spread the sweet potato mixture in the prepared 8×8-inch baking dish to form the casserole base.
- Prepare the Topping: In a separate bowl, combine the chopped pecans, brown sugar, all-purpose flour, and melted butter. Stir together until the mixture becomes crumbly.
- Apply Topping and Optional Marshmallows: Sprinkle the pecan topping evenly over the sweet potato base. If desired, add mini marshmallows on top during the last 5 minutes of baking for a gooey, sweet finish.
- Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 45 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and slightly bubbling, indicating it is fully cooked and flavorful.
- Cool Before Serving: Remove the casserole from the oven and allow it to cool for 15 minutes before serving, so it sets properly and is easier to slice.
Notes
- For an extra touch, top the casserole with mini marshmallows during the last 5 minutes of baking for a gooey, caramelized finish.
- Using canned yams shortens prep time and simplifies the process, making this recipe perfect for busy occasions.
- To make this dish dairy-free, substitute regular milk with almond milk and use dairy-free butter alternatives.
- This casserole can be prepared ahead of time and baked just before serving for convenience.
Keywords: Sweet Potato Casserole, Canned Yams, Holiday Side Dish, Easy Casserole, Pecan Topping, Comfort Food
