Sweet Potatoes with Marshmallows

This Sweet Potatoes with Marshmallows recipe is a beloved holiday classic, perfect for adding a sweet, creamy, and fluffy touch to your Thanksgiving or Christmas meal. The dish features smooth, spiced sweet potatoes topped with golden, gooey marshmallows, offering a delightful blend of sweet and savory flavors that everyone will love.

Ingredients

For the Sweet Potato Mixture:

• 4-5 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cooked (mashed)
• 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
• 1/4 cup fresh orange juice
• 1/4 cup butter, softened
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
• A pinch of salt

For the Marshmallow Topping:

• 2 cups miniature marshmallows

Instructions

1. Preheat Oven & Prepare the Baking Dish:
   • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 3-quart baking dish with butter or non-stick spray to prevent sticking.
2. Mash the Sweet Potatoes:
   • In a large mixing bowl, mash the cooked sweet potatoes until smooth. Use a potato masher or a hand mixer for a finer texture.
3. Combine the Ingredients:
   • Add the lightly beaten eggs, orange juice, softened butter, sugar, vanilla extract, ground nutmeg, and a pinch of salt to the mashed sweet potatoes. Stir well until all ingredients are fully combined.
4. Transfer to Baking Dish:
   • Pour the sweet potato mixture into the prepared baking dish. Spread it evenly with a spatula to ensure it bakes uniformly.
5. Bake the Sweet Potatoes:
   • Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the mixture is set and golden around the edges.
6. Add the Marshmallow Topping:
   • Remove the dish from the oven and evenly sprinkle the miniature marshmallows on top of the sweet potatoes. Return the dish to the oven and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the marshmallows puff up and melt into a golden, gooey layer.
7. Cool & Serve:
   • Let the casserole cool slightly before serving. Enjoy this delicious side dish warm, straight from the oven.

Serving & Storage Tips:

• Serving: Serve immediately while the marshmallows are gooey and the sweet potatoes are creamy.
• Pairing: This dish pairs beautifully with roasted turkey, green bean casserole, and cranberry sauce for a complete holiday meal.
• Storing Leftovers: Store leftovers in an airtight container or cover the baking dish tightly with foil and refrigerate for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in the oven at 325°F until warmed through. Avoid using the microwave as it may cause uneven marshmallow melting.

Helpful Notes:

• Sweetness Adjustment: For a less sweet dish, reduce the sugar or omit it entirely to let the natural sweetness of the potatoes shine through.
• Added Crunch: For an extra texture, consider sprinkling chopped pecans or walnuts over the marshmallows before baking.
• Make Ahead: Prepare the sweet potato mixture ahead of time and refrigerate it overnight. Add the marshmallows and bake on the day of serving.

Chef Tips:

• Chef Ina Garten suggests adding a touch of orange zest to brighten up the flavors.
• Chef Alton Brown recommends using high-quality vanilla extract to elevate the flavor of holiday dishes.
• Chef Emeril Lagasse often adds a dash of cinnamon alongside nutmeg for a warm, festive flavor profile.

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Why You'll Love This Recipe:

• Timeless Holiday Classic: This dish adds sweetness and comfort to any holiday meal.
• Visually Stunning: The contrast of creamy sweet potatoes and golden, puffed marshmallows makes this dish both appealing and satisfying.
• Family-Friendly: Loved by both adults and kids, this easy-to-make side dish is perfect for any gathering.

Variations:

• For a nutty twist, add chopped pecans or walnuts on top before baking.
• Swap the miniature marshmallows for marshmallow crème for a smoother topping.
• For extra spice, add a pinch of cinnamon or allspice to the sweet potato mixture.

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This Sweet Potatoes with Marshmallows recipe is sure to be a hit at your next holiday meal, combining rich flavors and a fun, nostalgic topping that everyone will love.