Last Updated on November 5, 2025 by recipeinspire

How to Make an Easy Sweet Potato Casserole with Canned Yams in Just 7 Steps

Are you tired of the same old side dishes at holiday dinners? What if I told you that you could elevate your next family gathering with a comforting dish that’s both simple to make and delicious? The perfect solution awaits you in this Easy Sweet Potato Casserole with Canned Yams. In just seven easy steps, you’ll master this classic comfort food that everyone will love!

Ingredients List

For this delightful casserole, you’ll need:

• 2 cans (15 oz each) of sliced yams or sweet potatoes (drained)
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup milk (dairy or non-dairy alternatives)
• 2 eggs
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
• 1/2 cup butter (melted)
• 1 cup miniature marshmallows (optional for topping)
• 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional for added crunch)

Substitution Ideas: For a lighter version, consider using almond milk instead of dairy milk or coconut sugar instead of granulated sugar.

Timing

Preparation for this Easy Sweet Potato Casserole with Canned Yams takes about 20 minutes, with a cooking time of approximately 30 minutes. In total, you’ll be enjoying a homemade feast in just 50 minutes. That’s about 20% less time than traditional casserole recipes, allowing you more time to mingle with your guests!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Set your oven to a cozy 350°F (175°C). Preheating ensures that your casserole cooks evenly.

Step 2: Prepare the Casserole Dish

Grease a 2-quart baking dish with butter or non-stick spray. This will prevent the casserole from sticking and ensure easy serving.

Step 3: Mix the Base Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine drained yams, granulated sugar, milk, eggs, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and melted butter. Mash the ingredients together until smooth for a creamy texture.

Step 4: Transfer to the Baking Dish

Pour the sweet potato mixture into your prepared baking dish, smoothing the top to create an even layer. This step sets the stage for all the delicious toppings.

Step 5: Add the Toppings

Sprinkle miniature marshmallows and chopped nuts over the top. This will give your casserole a delightful crunch and a beautiful golden finish.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30 minutes or until the marshmallows are toasty brown and the casserole is bubbly.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Once out of the oven, let it cool for a few minutes before serving. This dish pairs perfectly with roasted turkey, ham, or even as a delicious standalone option!

Nutritional Information

This comforting casserole serves about eight people. Here’s a rough estimate of the nutritional profile per serving:

• Calories: 200
• Protein: 3g
• Carbohydrates: 34g
• Dietary Fiber: 2g
• Sugars: 15g
• Fat: 7g

While enjoying a slice of this Easy Sweet Potato Casserole with Canned Yams, you can feel good about indulging in wholesome ingredients.

Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe

Want to make this dish a bit lighter? Here are a few tips:

• Use Greek yogurt in place of some or all of the milk for added creaminess and protein.
• Swap in cauliflower purée instead of some sweet potatoes for a lower-carb option.
• Replace marshmallows with toasted coconut flakes for a unique twist and reduced sugar content.

Serving Suggestions

This Easy Sweet Potato Casserole with Canned Yams makes a fantastic side at Thanksgiving or any holiday dinner. Consider serving it alongside:

• Herb-roasted chicken
• Glazed ham
• A fresh green salad

You can even add a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top for a decadent dessert-like serving.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing your casserole, here are some pitfalls to steer clear of:

• Over-mashing the yams: While a smooth texture is ideal, be careful not to turn your base into a runny mix.
• Skipping the preheating: Always preheat your oven; this is crucial for even cooking and a perfect top layer.
• Not letting it cool before serving: If you serve it too hot, the flavors and textures won’t meld as beautifully.

Storing Tips for the Recipe

If you have leftovers (lucky you!), here’s how to store them properly:

• Refrigeration: Store your casserole in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: You can freeze the casserole for up to 2 months. Just make sure to cover it well with plastic wrap and aluminum foil.
• Reheating: When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed throughout.

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Conclusion

In just seven easy steps, you can create a truly delicious Easy Sweet Potato Casserole with Canned Yams that will undoubtedly become a family favorite. This recipe is flexible, allowing you to make it your own with simple modifications. Don’t forget to share your results and feedback in the comments below!

FAQs

Q: Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! You can prepare it a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Just bake it right before serving.

Q: Is it necessary to use canned yams?
A: While canned yams simplify the process, you can also use fresh sweet potatoes. Just boil and mash them before combining with the other ingredients.

Q: Can this recipe be vegan?
A: Yes! Substitute eggs with flaxseed meal and dairy milk with almond or oat milk to create a delicious vegan version.

Get started with this comforting dish that offers both ease and flavor. Your dinner guests will be begging for the recipe!