Mashed Sweet Potato Casserole with Marshmallow Gravy and Pecans

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Sweet potato casserole is a beloved classic on the Thanksgiving table, and this Mashed Sweet Potato Casserole with Marshmallow Gravy and Pecans offers a unique twist on the traditional dish. The creamy mashed sweet potatoes are perfectly complemented by a marshmallow drizzle and crunchy pecans, creating a delightful blend of sweet and savory flavors. This dish is simple to prepare, yet it brings a touch of indulgence that will have your guests asking for seconds. Whether you’re celebrating a holiday or looking to add a flavorful side to any meal, this casserole is sure to impress.

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Ingredients

Mashed Sweet Potatoes

• 6-7 large sweet potatoes
• Olive oil
• 1 tablespoon butter
• Small pinch of salt

Marshmallow Gravy

• 3/4 cup marshmallow creme (or marshmallow fluff)
• 2 tablespoons heavy cream

Toppings

• Pecans (candied, roasted, or raw)
• Optional: Brown sugar for sprinkling

Instructions

1. Prepare the Sweet Potatoes
   • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
   • Wash the sweet potatoes thoroughly, then use a fork to pierce them several times. This will allow steam to escape as they bake.
   • Coat the sweet potatoes with olive oil, then wrap each one in tin foil to keep them moist during baking.
   • Bake the sweet potatoes for about 1 hour and 15 minutes, or until they are tender and a fork can be easily inserted into the flesh.
2. Mash the Sweet Potatoes
   • Once the sweet potatoes are done baking, remove them from the oven and allow them to cool for a few minutes.
   • Carefully peel off the skins. You can either mash the potatoes using a potato masher for a rustic texture, or puree them for a smoother consistency.
   • Add the butter and a small pinch of salt to the mashed sweet potatoes, stirring to combine. Reheat on the stove or microwave if needed.
3. Make the Marshmallow Gravy
   • In a microwave-safe bowl, heat the marshmallow creme for 15 seconds to soften it.
   • Stir in the heavy cream until the mixture is smooth and well combined. Microwave for an additional 15 seconds if necessary to achieve a silky consistency.
4. Assemble and Serve
   • Spoon the mashed sweet potatoes into individual serving bowls or a large casserole dish.
   • Drizzle the marshmallow gravy over the top of the mashed sweet potatoes, allowing it to soak into the creamy potatoes.
   • Sprinkle with pecans for a satisfying crunch, and if desired, top with a light dusting of brown sugar for added sweetness.

The Perfect Holiday Side Dish

The appeal of this Mashed Sweet Potato Casserole lies in its perfect balance of flavors and textures. The sweet potatoes are tender and slightly earthy, with a subtle sweetness that pairs beautifully with the creamy marshmallow gravy. The marshmallow drizzle adds a soft, gooey richness that contrasts wonderfully with the crisp pecans. The optional sprinkle of brown sugar further enhances the sweet notes, making each bite an absolute treat.

This casserole is a great addition to your Thanksgiving spread, but it’s versatile enough to serve as a side for any meal. Whether paired with roasted meats or enjoyed on its own, the combination of marshmallow, sweet potato, and pecans will make your taste buds sing.

Variations and Substitutions

• Sweet Potato Variations: While this recipe uses traditional sweet potatoes, you can also try using other varieties like Japanese sweet potatoes or yams for a different flavor profile.
• Pecans: If you’re not a fan of pecans, feel free to substitute with chopped walnuts, almonds, or even candied pecans for an extra touch of sweetness.
• Dairy-Free Option: For a dairy-free version, substitute the butter with coconut oil and use a plant-based cream or coconut cream in place of the heavy cream.
• Marshmallow Alternatives: If marshmallow fluff is not available, you can use mini marshmallows instead. Just melt them with the heavy cream until smooth.

Serving Suggestions

This Mashed Sweet Potato Casserole with Marshmallow Gravy and Pecans is a crowd-pleaser, especially during the holidays. Serve it alongside your favorite roasted meats, such as turkey or ham, or enjoy it as part of a cozy vegetarian meal. It also pairs wonderfully with a fresh salad or green beans to balance out the rich, sweet flavors.

For an extra touch of indulgence, you can serve this casserole with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a dessert-like experience.

No matter how you serve it, this dish will leave everyone coming back for more. The warm, comforting flavors of mashed sweet potatoes, sweet marshmallow, and crunchy pecans are the perfect way to add a little extra joy to your table.