3pounds(450g) sweet potatoespeeled and cut into cubes
½cup(100g) packed brown sugar
⅓cup(76g) buttersoftened
1teaspoonground cinnamon
¼teaspoonground nutmeg
½teaspoonvanilla extract
Salt
¾cup(100g) finely chopped pecansdivided
2cups(100g) miniature marshmallows
Instructions
Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F / 190 degrees C / gas 5. Lightly spray a casserole dish, and set aside.
Add cubed sweet potatoes to a pot of boiling water and simmer for about 15 -20 minutes or until tender. Drain the water and allow to cool slightly.
Transfer the sweet potatoes into a large bowl, add brown sugar, butter, cinnamon, nutmeg, vanilla extract and salt, then mash together.
Fold in ¼ cup of pecans before transferring the mixture into the prepared baking dish.
Spread the mixture out and top with remaining pecans and the marshmallows.
Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until marshmallows are toasted and golden and potatoes are heated all the way through.
Video
Notes
Choose fresh, firm sweet potatoes. Look for ones without bruises or blemishes. While orange-fleshed sweet potatoes are most commonly used, you can also experiment with other varieties like garnet or white sweet potatoes for slightly different flavor profiles.
Boil, steam, or roast your sweet potatoes until they're fork-tender. This ensures a creamy texture and develops their natural sweetness. Don't overcook them, as they can become too mushy.
Use a potato masher and your potatoes will have some texture to them. If you prefer a smoother mash, you can use a mixer to combine the ingredients.
Make in advance (up to 2 days) and bake just before serving.
Distribute marshmallows evenly across the top for a gooey, golden-brown finish. Scatter chopped pecans over the marshmallows for added crunch and flavor.
Divide the casserole into two dishes and freeze one for later.
Keep a close eye on your casserole while it's baking. Once the marshmallows are golden brown, remove the dish from the oven to prevent over-browning or burning.
Sweet potato casserole is best served warm. Allow it to cool slightly before serving, but don't wait too long, as it's at its most delightful when fresh out of the oven.