Looking for a sweet potato casserole without marshmallows? Learn why people skip marshmallows, whether sweet potato casserole is healthy, and how to make an easy beginner-friendly version.
By Ruti Darji
Home-cooking enthusiast focused on simple, reliable holiday and comfort-food recipes.
Sweet potato casserole is a staple on many holiday tables, but not everyone loves it piled high with melted marshmallows. If you’ve ever wondered whether there’s a better, less sugary way to enjoy this classic dish, you’re not alone.
This guide is for home cooks who want a sweet potato casserole without marshmallows, whether for health reasons, personal taste, or simply to try something different while keeping the dish comforting and familiar.
Why People Skip Marshmallows in Sweet Potato Casserole
Marshmallows became popular as a topping in the mid-20th century when sweet potato casserole was marketed as a sweet side dish. Over time, tastes have changed.
Many people now prefer:
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Less added sugar
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A more balanced flavor
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A dish that feels like a side, not a dessert
That’s why searches for sweet potato casserole without marshmallows continue to grow every holiday season.
Is Sweet Potato Casserole Healthy?
A common question is: is sweet potato casserole healthy?
The Honest Answer
It can be — depending on how it’s made.
The Good
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Sweet potatoes are rich in fiber, vitamin A, potassium, and antioxidants
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They’re naturally sweet, reducing the need for added sugar
The Not-So-Good
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Marshmallows and heavy sugar toppings add unnecessary calories
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Butter-heavy recipes can be high in saturated fat
By skipping marshmallows and using a simple topping, you can turn this dish into a more balanced holiday side.
Easy Sweet Potato Casserole Without Marshmallows (Beginner-Friendly)
This easy sweet potato casserole without marshmallows is simple, reliable, and perfect for first-time cooks.
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 30 minutes
Serves: 6
Ingredients
For the sweet potato base:
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3 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
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¼ cup milk (or plant-based milk)
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2 tablespoons butter or olive oil
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½ teaspoon cinnamon
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Salt to taste
For the topping:
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½ cup chopped pecans
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¼ cup oats
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1 tablespoon maple syrup or honey
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1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
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Cook the sweet potatoes:
Boil until fork-tender, then drain well. -
Mash the base:
Mash sweet potatoes with milk, butter or oil, cinnamon, and salt until smooth. -
Prepare the topping:
In a bowl, mix pecans, oats, maple syrup, and olive oil. -
Assemble:
Spread the sweet potato mixture into a baking dish and sprinkle the topping evenly. -
Bake:
Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25–30 minutes until lightly golden on top.
Best Toppings for Sweet Potato Casserole (No Marshmallows)
If you want variety, try these toppings:
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Pecan and oat crumble
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Walnut and cinnamon mix
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Pumpkin seeds for a savory twist
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Light breadcrumb topping with olive oil
These options add crunch without overpowering the natural sweetness.
Sweet Potato Casserole: Savory vs Sweet
Without marshmallows, sweet potato casserole sits perfectly between savory and sweet.
| With Marshmallows | Without Marshmallows |
|---|---|
| Dessert-like | Balanced side dish |
| Very sweet | Naturally sweet |
| Heavy | Lighter and cleaner |
This makes it a better fit alongside turkey, stuffing, and vegetables.
Conclusion: A Modern Take on a Holiday Classic
Sweet potato casserole without marshmallows proves that you don’t need extra sugar to make a holiday favorite shine. With simple ingredients and a crunchy topping, it becomes a dish that feels comforting, familiar, and a little more nourishing.
It’s an easy update that still honors tradition — just with a modern twist.
For more holiday side-dish inspiration and visual ideas, explore our Pinterest collection