Welcome to the ultimate guide for creating an effortlessly delicious Sweet Potato Casserole with Canned Yams! This classic holiday side dish, often the star of Thanksgiving and Christmas tables, is made incredibly simple with this recipe, requiring less than 30 minutes of active preparation time. Imagine savoring the perfect blend of sweet and savory flavors without the holiday stress. This versatile casserole is not just for festive occasions; it’s so quick and easy, you’ll want to make it all year round!
Effortless Sweet Potato Casserole with Canned Yams
You might wonder why we’re discussing a staple holiday recipe outside of autumn. The truth is, convenience knows no season! Recently, while organizing my pantry, I stumbled upon a few cans of yams. This discovery sparked an idea: why wait for the holidays to enjoy such a comforting and delicious dish? Especially when using canned yams dramatically simplifies the process, transforming a potentially time-consuming recipe into a quick and delightful treat.
This Sweet Potato Casserole is a dish I often volunteer to bring to family gatherings because it requires minimal effort but delivers maximum flavor. The preparation takes mere minutes, then your oven handles the rest. Forget the stress of peeling, chopping, and boiling fresh sweet potatoes; canned yams streamline everything, allowing you to focus on other aspects of your meal or simply relax and enjoy the process. It’s truly a “cheater side dish” in the best possible way!
We firmly believe that sweet potato casserole, especially when adorned with a gooey marshmallow topping, should be enjoyed far more frequently than just on Thanksgiving. Just as we enjoy a loaded Texas Roadhouse Sweet Potato anytime, a whole casserole of this goodness deserves regular rotation in our menus. While holiday meals are undoubtedly special, the sheer ease of this canned sweet potato casserole makes it an ideal choice for any day you crave a taste of comfort.
This recipe offers the ideal balance of sweetness and a hint of spice, all whipped into a creamy, smooth texture topped with golden, toasted marshmallows. It’s a Southern classic reimagined for modern convenience, proving that incredible flavor doesn’t have to come with a hefty time commitment. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or an unexpected potluck, this casserole is ready to impress in under 30 minutes from start to finish.
For me, this Southern sweet potato casserole holds a special place among my all-time favorite Thanksgiving recipes. However, its simplicity and deliciousness mean it frequently appears on our table throughout the entire year. It’s a testament to how simple ingredients can create profound satisfaction.
Key Ingredients for Your Sweet Potato Casserole
Crafting an epic Sweet Potato Casserole with Canned Yams requires just a handful of straightforward ingredients, many of which you likely already have in your pantry. This section provides a quick overview, with precise measurements and detailed step-by-step instructions available in the full recipe card below.
- Canned Sweet Potatoes (Yams): The cornerstone of this convenient recipe. Ensure they are well-drained.
- Butter: Adds richness and a smooth texture. Unsalted is generally preferred for control, but salted works too.
- Brown Sugar: Delivers a deep, molasses-rich sweetness that complements the yams perfectly.
- Cinnamon: A quintessential spice that brings warmth and classic holiday aroma.
- Nutmeg: Offers a subtle, earthy undertone, enhancing the overall spice profile.
- Vanilla Extract: A touch of vanilla brightens and rounds out the sweet flavors.
- Mini Marshmallows: For that iconic, irresistible golden topping.
Optional Enhancements: Elevate your casserole further with additions like chopped pecans for crunch, a drizzle of maple syrup for extra depth, or a pinch of pumpkin pie spice for an intensified seasonal flavor.
A quick note on ingredients: you might notice white sugar in one of the accompanying photos. Please disregard that! It was a momentary mix-up during the photoshoot, and I correctly used brown sugar in the actual recipe. Brown sugar is key for that rich, caramelized flavor that truly makes this casserole shine. Apologies for any confusion, but rest assured, the recipe calls for, and benefits greatly from, brown sugar.
Butter Selection: While I opted for unsalted butter to have full control over the saltiness, feel free to use salted butter if you prefer. It can actually enhance the overall flavor profile, adding another layer of savory depth.
Nutmeg Considerations: If you or your family members are not particularly fond of nutmeg, it can easily be omitted without compromising the deliciousness of the casserole. The cinnamon and vanilla provide ample flavor.
Marshmallow vs. Pecan Topping: We love topping our sweet potato mixture with a generous layer of mini marshmallows, baking them until they’re perfectly melted and golden brown. However, for those who prefer a less sweet or crunchier finish, a toasted pecan topping makes an excellent alternative.
To Egg or Not to Egg: Interestingly, I’ve always made this casserole without an egg. When I first started preparing it, I simply forgot to add one, and the resulting flavor and texture were so delightful that I stuck with it. However, if you prefer a slightly denser, more custard-like consistency, you can certainly mix an egg into the sweet potato mixture along with the butter, cinnamon, vanilla, and nutmeg.
Essential Equipment for Sweet Potato Casserole
Preparing this easy sweet potato casserole is a breeze, especially with the right tools. Here’s a list of kitchen essentials that will make your cooking experience even smoother:
- Non-Stick Cooking Spray: Essential for greasing your baking dish to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Large Bowl: A spacious mixing bowl is crucial for comfortably mashing the yams and incorporating all ingredients. A glass batter bowl with a handle can be particularly convenient, offering stability and ease of mixing.
- Potato Masher: The perfect tool for achieving your desired sweet potato consistency, from slightly chunky to silky smooth.
- Measuring Spoons and Cups: For accurate ingredient measurements, ensuring consistent results every time.
- Silicone Microwave Cover: A fantastic item for melting butter without the mess. It keeps your microwave spotless!
- 9×13 Baking Dish: The standard size for this casserole, ideal for feeding a crowd.
- Hand Mixer: If you prefer a completely smooth, lump-free mashed sweet potato base, a hand mixer will achieve that creamy texture effortlessly.
How to Make Sweet Potato Casserole with Canned Yams
Making this incredibly easy sweet potato casserole is a straightforward process, perfect for busy days or holiday feasts. Here’s a simplified guide, with full, detailed instructions available in the printable recipe card below:
- Prepare Your Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures the casserole bakes evenly from the moment it enters the oven.
- Mash the Yams: Drain the canned sweet potatoes thoroughly and transfer them to a large mixing bowl. Using a potato masher, mash the yams to your preferred consistency. Some prefer a perfectly smooth puree, while others enjoy a few small lumps for texture.
- Combine Ingredients: Add the melted butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and vanilla extract to the mashed yams. Mix vigorously until all ingredients are well combined and the mixture is smooth and fragrant.
- Transfer to Baking Dish: Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish (or casserole dish) with non-stick cooking spray. Evenly spread the sweet potato mixture into the prepared dish.
- Bake and Top: Bake the casserole in the preheated oven for 18-22 minutes. Then, remove it from the oven, sprinkle a generous layer of mini marshmallows over the top, and return it to the oven for another 2-5 minutes, or until the marshmallows are melted, puffed, and beautifully golden brown. Keep a close eye on them to prevent burning!
Preparation and Storage Tips
This Sweet Potato Casserole recipe is wonderfully flexible when it comes to preparation and storage, making it an ideal dish for planning ahead for holidays or simply enjoying leftovers.
Make-Ahead Instructions: This casserole is perfect for preparing in advance! Simply follow the recipe instructions through step four (mixing and spreading the sweet potato base into the dish). Cover the unbaked casserole tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, remove it from the fridge, allow it to come closer to room temperature for about 15-20 minutes, then proceed with baking and adding the marshmallow (or pecan) topping as directed.
Storage for Leftovers: Any leftover casserole should be covered tightly with plastic wrap or transferred to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for three to four days, ensuring it remains fresh and delicious.
Freezing (How to Freeze): For longer storage, Sweet Potato Casserole freezes beautifully. Allow the baked casserole to cool completely. Then, transfer leftovers to an airtight, freezer-safe container or wrap the entire baking dish tightly with several layers of plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil. You can enjoy frozen casserole within four months for best quality.
How to Reheat: Reheating is simple. For larger portions, place the casserole in an oven preheated to 350°F (175°C) and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until heated through. If the topping seems too brown, you can lightly tent it with foil. Individual servings reheat nicely in the microwave; start with 1-2 minutes and add more time as needed, stirring occasionally.
Recipe Variations to Suit Every Taste
One of the best aspects of this Sweet Potato Casserole recipe is its adaptability. It’s easy to customize to dietary needs or personal preferences, ensuring everyone at your table can enjoy this comforting dish.
Ingredient Substitutions:
- Butter: As mentioned, unsalted butter gives you control over sodium levels, but salted butter can be used for an enhanced savory note without issue.
- Nutmeg: If nutmeg isn’t a favorite in your household, feel free to omit it entirely. The cinnamon and vanilla provide plenty of warm, inviting flavor. You could also experiment with a pinch of allspice or ginger for a different twist.
Vegetarian Option: This casserole is naturally vegetarian. However, traditional mini marshmallows sometimes contain gelatin. For a strictly vegetarian version, simply swap out conventional mini marshmallows for a gelatin-free alternative, readily available in most health food stores or online.
Vegan Option: Creating a delicious vegan sweet potato casserole is entirely possible!
- Omit the egg (as I often do in my traditional recipe anyway).
- Use a high-quality vegan butter substitute.
- Skip the marshmallows, as most contain gelatin.
- Instead of marshmallows, create a delightful pecan brown sugar streusel topping: Combine ¼ cup all-purpose flour, ¼ cup brown sugar, ½ cup chopped pecans, ½ teaspoon cinnamon, ⅛ teaspoon salt, and four tablespoons of cold vegan butter (cut into small pieces). Use your fingers or a pastry blender to mix until crumbly, then sprinkle over the casserole before baking for a crunchy, flavorful finish.
Gluten-Free Adaptation: For those following a gluten-free diet, the base of this casserole is typically gluten-free. However, it’s crucial to be mindful of the topping. Not all marshmallows are gluten-free, so ensure you check labels carefully or opt for a brand explicitly marked as gluten-free. If using the vegan streusel topping, ensure your flour is a certified gluten-free all-purpose blend.
Adjusting Serving Size: This recipe is designed for a standard 9×13-inch casserole dish, yielding approximately 12 servings – perfect for larger gatherings. If you’re serving a smaller group or simply want fewer leftovers, you can easily halve the recipe and bake it in an 8×8-inch casserole dish. Baking times may need slight adjustment, so keep an eye on it.
Make It Spicy: For an unexpected kick, some enthusiasts enjoy adding a pinch of chipotle powder or cayenne pepper to the sweet potato mixture. Start with ¼ teaspoon and adjust to your desired level of heat for a sweet and spicy twist.
Scaling for Larger Groups: Feeding a very large crowd? This recipe doubles or even triples with ease. Simply multiply all ingredients accordingly and use larger baking dishes as needed. For exceptionally large batches, it might be easier to use two 9×13-inch dishes.
Sugar-Free Version: The original recipe contains approximately 44 grams of sugar per serving. To make it sugar-free, replace the brown sugar with a sugar-free brown sugar substitute (like erythritol-based options). Also, ensure you use canned sweet potatoes with no added sugar, and top with sugar-free mini marshmallows or a pecan streusel made with sugar-free sweetener.
Expert Tips for the Best Sweet Potato Casserole
Achieving a perfect sweet potato casserole is simple with these additional tips and tricks:
- Preheating is Key: Always preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures even baking and helps the casserole cook thoroughly without drying out.
- Topping Choices: While mini marshmallows create that classic, gooey, golden crust, a toasted pecan topping offers a delightful textural contrast and nutty flavor. For the pecan topping, combine chopped pecans with a tablespoon of melted butter and a sprinkle of brown sugar, then scatter over the casserole for the last 10-15 minutes of baking.
- The Egg Debate: I personally prefer my casserole without an egg, as it results in a lighter, fluffier consistency. However, adding one egg to the sweet potato mixture (along with the butter, cinnamon, vanilla, and nutmeg) will yield a slightly richer, more custard-like texture. Experiment to see which you prefer!
- Mashing Consistency: The beauty of canned yams is their tenderness. You can easily achieve a smooth puree with a potato masher, or for a silkier texture, use a hand mixer. If you enjoy a bit of texture, don’t over-mash!
- Don’t Burn the Marshmallows: Marshmallows can go from perfectly golden to burnt in seconds. Keep a close watch during the final baking stage. If they brown too quickly, you can always loosely tent the dish with aluminum foil.
What to Serve with Sweet Potato Casserole
Our Sweet Potato Casserole with Canned Yams, crowned with a luscious mini marshmallow topping, strikes the perfect balance between sweet and savory, making it an ideal companion for a wide array of dishes. It’s an indispensable part of any festive spread!
Here are some curated menu planning suggestions to make your next Thanksgiving, Christmas, Easter, or any holiday feast truly memorable:
Complementary Side Dishes:
- Pineapple Stuffing: A sweet and savory delight that pairs beautifully.
- Carrot Soufflé: Another naturally sweet vegetable dish that complements yams.
- Creamed Corn Casserole: Rich and creamy, offering a different texture.
- Crock Pot Mashed Cauliflower: A lighter, savory alternative to traditional potatoes.
- Garlic Herb Mashed Potatoes: A classic savory potato dish.
- Jiffy Cornbread with Sour Cream: A comforting bread to soak up all the delicious flavors.
- Green Bean Casserole: A traditional favorite for a reason.
Main Dishes That Pair Perfectly:
- Crock Pot Turkey: A succulent and easy-to-prepare main.
- Crock Pot Bourbon Maple Pork Loin: The sweet and savory notes align perfectly.
- Crock Pot Guinness Corned Beef & Cabbage: A hearty, flavorful choice.
- Crock Pot Chicken & Stuffing: Classic comfort food.
- Crock Pot Orange Glazed Ham: The citrus and sweet ham are a dream with sweet potatoes.
- Crock Pot Coke Glazed Ham: Another delightful sweet and savory ham option.
- Bourbon Baked Ham: A sophisticated and flavorful main dish.
Desserts to Follow:
- Eggnog Cookies: Seasonal sweetness.
- 4 Ingredient Christmas Crack: Easy, addictive, and sweet.
- Easy Holiday Reindeer Chow: A fun, festive treat.
- Church Window Cookies: A colorful, no-bake classic.
- No Bake Cherry Cheesecake Dip: Light and fruity.
- Easy Eggnog Cake with Eggnog Glaze: For the eggnog lovers.
- Ambrosia Salad: A fruity, creamy, and nostalgic dessert.
- Chocolate Chip Cheese Ball: A decadent and crowd-pleasing dessert.
- Cranberry Fluff Salad: Light and refreshing with a tart-sweet balance.
Festive Drinks:
- Eggnog White Russian: A creamy, festive cocktail.
- Spiced Cranberry Cocktail: Warming and vibrant.
- Cranberry Moscow Mule: A refreshing holiday twist.
- RumChata Pudding Shots: Fun for adult gatherings.
- Pomegranate Breeze Martini: Elegant and fruity.
- Mulled Cherry Cider Cocktail: A warm, comforting non-alcoholic (or spiked) option.
When to Serve This Delightful Casserole
The beauty of this Sweet Potato Casserole lies in its versatility. While it’s a holiday MVP, its ease and comforting flavors make it suitable for a variety of occasions:
- Dinner: Elevate any weeknight meal with this satisfying side.
- Potlucks: It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that travels well.
- Thanksgiving: An absolute must-have for the traditional feast.
- Christmas: A festive addition to your holiday spread.
- Any Holiday Dinner! From Easter to New Year’s, this casserole fits right in.
More Great Holiday Side Dishes to Explore
If you’re planning a holiday meal or simply looking for more comforting side dishes, be sure to check out these other fantastic recipes that pair wonderfully with any main course:
- Orange Dreamsicle Salad
- Southern Style Green Beans
- Creamed Corn Casserole
- Mashed Cauliflower
- CrockPot Stuffing
- Cracker Barrel Carrots
You can also find this featured recipe and many others in our comprehensive collection of best side dishes for ham!
Do you love discovering new recipes? Be sure to explore our other categories, including delicious copycat recipes, indulgent dessert recipes, and our incredibly convenient Crock Pot Recipes.
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Sweet Potato Casserole with Canned Yams Recipe
How to make Sweet Potato Casserole with Canned Yams! This delicious holiday side dish takes less than 30 minutes to make and tastes amazing. The perfect Thanksgiving, Christmas, or Easter side dish.
10 minutes
25 minutes
35 minutes
12
356 kcal
Tammilee Tips
Ingredients
- 80 oz Canned Yams, drained
- 1.5 cups Brown Sugar
- 4 Tablespoons Butter, melted
- ½ teaspoon Ground Cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon Ground Nutmeg
- 2 teaspoon Vanilla Extract
- 4-5 cups Mini Marshmallows
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 C).
- Drain sweet potatoes and add to a large bowl. Mash sweet potatoes to desired consistency.
- Mix in cinnamon, nutmeg, vanilla, brown sugar, and melted butter.
- Spread into a 9×13 greased casserole dish.
- Bake for 18-22 minutes, then top with marshmallows and bake for 2-5 minutes until melted and starting to brown.
Kitchen Tools
- 9X13 Pan
- Microwave Cover
- Large Mixing Bowl
- Hand Mixer
Nutrition
Calories from Fat 36