A creamy sweet potato casserole topped with golden brown marshmallows, perfect as a comforting holiday side dish.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Combines creamy, spiced sweet potatoes with a sweet, gooey marshmallow topping.
• Easy to prepare with simple, classic ingredients.
• A crowd-pleaser for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any special occasion.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Sweet potatoes
• Light brown sugar
• Butter (melted)
• Vanilla extract
• Cinnamon
• Nutmeg
• Salt
• Mini marshmallows

Directions

1. Cook the Sweet Potatoes: Peel and cut the sweet potatoes into chunks. Boil them in water until tender. Drain and mash until smooth.
2. Prepare the Filling: Mix the mashed sweet potatoes with melted butter, brown sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Stir until well combined.
3. Assemble the Casserole: Spread the sweet potato mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Top with an even layer of mini marshmallows.
4. Bake: Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F for 25–35 minutes, or until the marshmallows are golden brown. Watch closely toward the end to prevent burning.
5. Serve: Let cool for 5 minutes and serve warm.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 12
• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cooking Time: 35 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes

Variations

• Add a pecan crumble topping instead of marshmallows for a nutty crunch.
• Incorporate a splash of orange juice for a citrusy twist.

Storage/Reheating

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 10–15 minutes or in the microwave in 1-minute intervals.

FAQs

1. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, prepare the sweet potato mixture and refrigerate it. Add marshmallows just before baking.

2. Can I freeze sweet potato casserole?

Yes, freeze the unbaked casserole (without marshmallows) for up to 2 months. Thaw, top with marshmallows, and bake.

3. Can I use canned sweet potatoes?

Yes, drain and mash canned sweet potatoes to use in the filling.

4. How do I prevent the marshmallows from burning?

Place the casserole on the middle rack and check frequently during the last few minutes of baking.

5. Can I add spices like cloves or allspice?

Yes, a pinch of cloves or allspice complements the sweet potatoes beautifully.

6. What can I use instead of marshmallows?

Try a brown sugar and pecan crumble topping for a less sweet option.

7. Can I use less sugar?

Yes, reduce the sugar in the filling to suit your taste.

8. Can I make this dairy-free?

Use dairy-free butter and substitute almond milk for creaminess.

9. How can I make this dish vegan?

Replace butter with vegan butter and use vegan marshmallows.

10. Can I use yams instead of sweet potatoes?

Yes, yams will work, but the flavor may be slightly different.

Conclusion

Easy sweet potato casserole is a comforting and classic dish that’s perfect for holidays or any meal in need of a little extra sweetness. With its creamy base and gooey topping, it’s always a hit!

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Cheesy Taco Pasta

Short Description

A quick and flavorful pasta dish combining the zest of tacos with creamy cheese and hearty ground beef.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• A fun twist on traditional taco night.
• Ready in just 30 minutes for a quick weeknight dinner.
• Kid-friendly and customizable with your favorite taco toppings.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Rotini pasta
• Ground beef
• Water
• Taco seasoning
• Salsa
• Shredded Mexican cheese blend

Directions

1. Cook the Pasta: Boil the rotini pasta according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
2. Prepare the Beef: In a large skillet, cook ground beef until browned. Drain any excess fat.
3. Season the Beef: Add taco seasoning and water to the beef, stirring until well mixed. Let simmer until the liquid is absorbed.
4. Combine: Stir in the cooked pasta and salsa. Mix well.
5. Add the Cheese: Stir in 1½ cups of shredded cheese until melted and creamy. Remove from heat and top with the remaining cheese. Let it melt before serving.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Add vegetables like bell peppers, corn, or black beans for extra flavor and texture.
• Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter option.

Storage/Reheating

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheat in a skillet with a splash of water or in the microwave until warmed through.

FAQs

1. Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, prepare the pasta and beef mixture ahead of time. Reheat and add cheese just before serving.

2. Can I use a different pasta shape?

Yes, any short pasta like penne, fusilli, or shells works well.

3. How can I make this spicier?

Use a spicy salsa, add diced jalapeños, or sprinkle in chili flakes.

4. Can I make this vegetarian?

Yes, replace the beef with plant-based crumbles or extra vegetables.

5. Can I freeze this dish?

Yes, freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Reheat in a skillet with a splash of water.

6. Can I use store-bought taco seasoning?

Yes, store-bought taco seasoning is convenient, but homemade works too.

7. What toppings can I add?

Top with sour cream, diced tomatoes, avocado, or fresh cilantro.

8. Can I use ground pork instead of beef?

Yes, ground pork is a flavorful substitute.

9. What if I don’t have salsa?

Use canned diced tomatoes with green chilies as an alternative.

10. Can I add extra cheese?

Absolutely! Adjust the cheese amount to your preference.

Conclusion

Cheesy taco pasta is a quick, satisfying dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights. Combining the best of tacos and pasta, it’s a meal everyone will love!

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