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Sweet potato casserole with canned yams

Sweet Potato Casserole With Canned Yams

There’s a kind of comfort that comes from a warm dish straight out of the oven, and this sweet potato casserole with canned yams delivers it in every bite.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Course Side Dish
Cuisine Southern
Servings 8 servings
Calories 220 kcal

Equipment

  • 9x13-inch baking dish
  • Mixing Bowl
  • Potato masher or fork
  • Rubber spatula
  • Measuring Cups & Spoons
  • Oven Mitts

Ingredients
  

For the Sweet Potato Base:

  • 2 cans 15 oz each yams, drained
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter melted
  • 1/3 cup brown sugar packed
  • 1/4 cup milk
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
  • Pinch of salt

For the Marshmallow Topping:

  • 1 1/2 cups mini marshmallows

Instructions
 

Preheat Your Oven

  • Set your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  • Lightly grease your 9x13-inch baking dish with butter or nonstick spray.
  • Pro Tip: A thin layer of butter around the edges gives the casserole a slightly caramelized crust—yum!

Prepare the Yams

  • Drain the canned yams thoroughly.
  • Place them in a large mixing bowl.
  • Use a potato masher or fork to mash them until smooth.
  • Pro Tip: Don’t worry if there are a few small chunks left—they add a nice texture to the casserole.

Mix in the Sweet Ingredients

  • Pour in the melted butter, brown sugar, and milk.
  • Add vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and a pinch of salt.
  • Stir everything together until fully combined and creamy.
  • Pro Tip: Mix gently but thoroughly—overmixing can make the yams too watery.

Transfer to Baking Dish

  • Spoon the yam mixture into the prepared baking dish.
  • Use a rubber spatula to smooth out the top so it’s even.
  • Pro Tip: A flat surface ensures the marshmallows bake evenly on top.

Add the Marshmallow Topping

  • Sprinkle mini marshmallows evenly across the top of the yams.
  • Make sure the marshmallows touch each other slightly to create that golden, gooey layer.
  • Pro Tip: For an extra touch, lightly press marshmallows into the yams so they stick and melt into the edges.

Bake to Perfection

  • Place the casserole in the preheated oven.
  • Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until marshmallows are golden brown and lightly toasted.
  • Keep an eye on the last 5 minutes—marshmallows can go from golden to dark quickly.

Cool and Serve

  • Remove the casserole from the oven using oven mitts.
  • Let it cool for 5–10 minutes before serving.
  • Scoop onto plates and enjoy!
  • Pro Tip: This short cooling time helps the marshmallows set slightly while keeping them soft and melty.

Notes

Nutritional Value (per serving)

  • Calories: ~220
  • Carbohydrates: ~35g
  • Protein: ~2g
  • Fat: ~9g
  • Saturated Fat: ~5g
  • Cholesterol: ~20mg
  • Fiber: ~3g
  • Sugar: ~20g
  • Sodium: ~120mg
Share your thoughts! Rate and comment below if you tried this recipe.
 
Nutrition Disclaimer:
The nutritional information provided on this website is an estimate only and is intended for general guidance. We cannot guarantee its accuracy and recommend consulting a qualified healthcare professional or registered dietitian for personalized nutrition advice.
Keyword sweet potato casserole, sweet potato casserole with canned yams