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Easy Sweet Potato Casserole with Canned Yams
Isabella

Easy Sweet Potato Casserole with Canned Yams

This Easy Sweet Potato Casserole with Canned Yams recipe delivers creamy, sweet perfection with minimal effort, making it the perfect side dish for holidays, potlucks, or even a simple weeknight meal! Forget peeling and boiling fresh sweet potatoes – our recipe leverages the convenience of canned yams for a phenomenal dish that’s ready in no time.
Total Time 1 hour
Course: Casserole, Side Dish
Cuisine: American, Southern

Ingredients
  

  • 2 (29-ounce) cans cut sweet potatoes in syrup or water drained
  • ½ cup unsalted butter melted
  • ½ cup packed light brown sugar
  • ¼ cup granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • pinch salt
  • 2 large eggs lightly beaten
Topping of your choice (optional but highly recommended!)
  • About 2 cups Mini marshmallows
  • Pecan Streusel
  • Crushed Cornflakes

Equipment

  • 9x13-inch baking dish
  • Large mixing bowl
  • Potato masher
  • Small Bowl
  • Whisk
  • Spatula

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with butter or non-stick cooking spray.
  2. Open your cans of sweet potatoes (or yams) and thoroughly drain all the liquid. This is a crucial step to prevent a watery casserole. You can gently press them in a colander if needed.
    2 (29-ounce) cans cut sweet potatoes in syrup or water
  3. In a large mixing bowl, add the drained canned yams. Using a potato masher, fork, or even a standing mixer with the paddle attachment, mash the yams until smooth. A few small lumps are perfectly fine and add character!
    2 (29-ounce) cans cut sweet potatoes in syrup or water
  4. In a separate small bowl, whisk together the melted butter, brown sugar, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and pinch of salt until well combined and the sugars begin to dissolve.
    ½ cup unsalted butter, ½ cup packed light brown sugar, ¼ cup granulated sugar, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon, ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg, pinch salt
  5. Lightly beat the two large eggs in a small bowl, then add them to the butter mixture. Whisk again until everything is fully incorporated.
    2 large eggs
  6. Pour the wet ingredient mixture into the bowl with the mashed yams. Stir well with a spatula or spoon until all ingredients are evenly distributed and the mixture is smooth and creamy.
    2 (29-ounce) cans cut sweet potatoes in syrup or water
  7. Pour the sweet potato mixture into your prepared 9x13 inch baking dish, spreading it evenly with the back of a spoon or spatula.
  8. If you're adding a marshmallow or streusel topping, bake the casserole uncovered in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are bubbly and the casserole is mostly set.
    About 2 cups Mini marshmallows, Pecan Streusel
  9. If using marshmallows, remove the casserole from the oven and sprinkle an even layer of mini marshmallows over the top. If using a streusel, sprinkle it evenly over the casserole.
    About 2 cups Mini marshmallows, Pecan Streusel
  10. Return the casserole to the oven for another 5-10 minutes, or until the marshmallows are golden brown and toasted (watch carefully, they can burn quickly!) or the streusel is golden and crisp.
  11. Remove from the oven and let the casserole cool for 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows it to set a bit more and makes for easier scooping. Enjoy warm!

Notes

Here are some pro tips to make sure your Easy Sweet Potato Casserole with Canned Yams turns out perfect every time:
Drain Thoroughly: This is the most crucial step! Canned yams often come in heavy syrup or water. Ensure you drain them extremely well. You can even gently press them in a colander to remove excess liquid, which will prevent a watery casserole.
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