Grandma'S Sweet Potatoes
A nostalgic sweet potato casserole with a crunchy nut topping and gooey marshmallows, perfect for family dinners and holiday celebrations seeking warm, comforting flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine brown sugar, flour, and nutmeg; cut in margarine until mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Add nuts to the sugar mixture.
- Arrange drained yams in a casserole dish and sprinkle with the sugar mixture.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 35 minutes.
- Sprinkle miniature marshmallows over the top and broil lightly until marshmallows are golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using dark brown sugar instead of light. If you're out of margarine, unsalted butter works just as well. You can also substitute the yams with sweet potatoes for a fresher taste. Be sure to mix the nuts well into the sugar mixture to ensure an even distribution. If you prefer a crunchier topping, increase the baking time slightly before adding marshmallows.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Grandma's Sweet Potatoes as a delightful side dish for holiday meals, especially at Thanksgiving or Christmas. They pair beautifully with savory dishes like roasted turkey or ham. For a complete meal, consider serving with a fresh salad, such as Family Favorite Fruit Salad, to balance the sweetness. This dish is also a hit at potlucks and family gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil to prevent drying out. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Grandma'S Sweet Potatoes contains roughly 1391 calories, with 4g protein, 37g carbohydrates, and 139g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1159mg per serving (50% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole up to the baking step and refrigerate it overnight. When ready to bake, just add additional baking time if taken straight from the fridge. This allows the flavors to meld together nicely, making it a great make-ahead option for busy holiday meals.
Can I use fresh yams instead of canned?
Absolutely! If using fresh yams, boil or steam them until tender, then drain and proceed with the recipe as instructed. Fresh yams will provide a different texture and flavor, enhancing the dish's overall appeal. Just ensure they are well-drained to avoid excess moisture.
What can I do if I don't have miniature marshmallows?
If you can't find miniature marshmallows, you can chop regular marshmallows into smaller pieces or use a marshmallow fluff layer instead. Another alternative is to use a sprinkle of crushed graham crackers or a pecan topping for a different texture, while still keeping the dish delicious.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).