A Refreshing Twist on a Classic: Sweet Potato Casserole
Elevate Your Thanksgiving Table
Sweet potato casserole, a staple at many Thanksgiving gatherings, often falls victim to overcooking, overpowering spices, and excessive sweetness. But it doesn’t have to be that way! This simplified recipe presents a perfectly balanced dish, topped with a traditional layer of golden-brown marshmallows.
Flavors that Shine
Instead of relying on a medley of pumpkin pie spices, this casserole is infused with a subtle hint of ginger, adding a warm, inviting aroma. You can opt for ground ginger or candied/crystallized ginger for an extra kick. The result is a dish that’s both comforting and refined.
Make-Ahead Magic
To save time on the big day, prepare the casserole up to a day in advance, skipping the oven heating step. Simply cool, cover, and refrigerate until ready to serve. Reheat covered in a 350°F oven for about 30 minutes, then uncover and proceed with the final step.
A Recipe for Success
* Servings: 6-8 *
Difficulty: Easy
Total Time: 1 hour
Active Time: 50 minutes
Ingredients:
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter (3/4 stick)
- 1/2 cup packed dark brown sugar
- 1/2 cup water
- 1 tablespoon kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger or 1/4 cup finely chopped candied/crystallized ginger
- 4 pounds Garnet sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes
- 4 cups mini marshmallows
Step-by-Step Instructions
-
Preheat and Prepare
Heat your oven to broil and position a rack in the lower third. -
Melt and Mix
Melt the butter in a large pot or Dutch oven with a tight-fitting lid over medium-high heat until foaming. Add the brown sugar, water, salt, and ground ginger (if using candied/crystallized ginger, add later). Cook, stirring occasionally, until the mixture comes to a boil. -
Add Sweet Potatoes
Add the sweet potatoes, stir to combine, and return to a boil. Reduce the heat to medium-low, cover, and simmer, stirring every few minutes, until the sweet potatoes are knife-tender and slightly falling apart, about 20-25 minutes. -
Add Candied Ginger (Optional)
Stir in the candied or crystallized ginger, if using, until evenly combined. -
Assemble and Top
Transfer the sweet potatoes and any liquid to a 13-by-9-inch baking dish, spreading into an even layer. Sprinkle the marshmallows evenly over the sweet potatoes. -
Broil to Perfection
Broil until the marshmallows are puffed and golden brown, about 1-1 1/2 minutes. Place the dish on a wire rack and let cool for 10 minutes before serving.
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