Sweet Potato and Pineapple Casserole

Sweet potato and pineapple casserole is the perfect blend of sweet and savory, making it a crowd-pleasing side dish for any occasion. With the natural sweetness of tender sweet potatoes and the bright, tropical flavor of pineapple, it offers a refreshing twist on a classic and comforting sweet potato casserole. Topped with marshmallows that bake into a golden, gooey layer, this casserole is sure to be a hit with kids and adults alike.

The recipe is simple to prepare and makes an excellent side dish for family gatherings, holiday dinners or potlucks. Whether it’s a Thanksgiving recipe or a cozy Sunday meal, this casserole is a delicious way to add a little sweetness to the savories on your table. Plus, you can make it ahead and freeze it, so it’s one less thing to worry about on the big day!

Ingredients for Sweet Potato and Pineapple Casserole 

• Sweet potatoes: Sweet potatoes are naturally sweet and rich in fiber and nutrients. Boiled and mashed, they make a smooth, hearty foundation for the casserole.
• Butter: Butter adds richness and moisture to the mashed sweet potatoes, enhancing both their flavor and texture.
• Sugar: A touch of sugar heightens the natural sweetness of the sweet potatoes and balances the tangy pineapple in the dish.
• Pineapple: Canned crushed pineapple adds a burst of tropical flavor and natural acidity, which complements the sweetness of the potatoes.
• Eggs: Beaten eggs help bind the ingredients together, providing structure and ensuring the casserole holds its shape when baked.
• Vanilla extract: A splash of vanilla adds warmth and enhances the natural sweetness of the sweet potatoes and pineapple.
• Ground nutmeg: This spice adds a subtle warmth and nutty depth, giving the casserole a comforting, aromatic flavor.
• Marshmallows: The marshmallows toast into a golden, gooey topping that adds a sweet, caramelized layer to the casserole.

Directions

Step 1: Boil the sweet potatoes

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Place the sweet potatoes in a large pot, cover them with water and bring it to a boil. Lower the heat slightly and boil the potatoes gently until they can be easily pierced with the tip of a sharp knife, 30 to 45 minutes. Drain the potatoes, and let them cool until they can be handled.

Step 2: Mash the potatoes, add the remaining ingredients

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Preheat the oven to 350°F. Peel the potatoes and place them in a large bowl with the butter and sugar, then mash until smooth. Add the pineapple, beaten eggs, vanilla, nutmeg and salt, and stir to combine.

Step 3: Top with marshmallows and bake

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Spoon the potato mixture into a greased 2-quart baking dish, and top it with the marshmallows. Bake the casserole, uncovered, until a knife inserted in the center comes out clean, 40 to 45 minutes.

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Sweet Potato and Pineapple Casserole Variations

• Add a crunchy topping: For extra texture and flavor, sprinkle the casserole with chopped pecans, walnuts or a crumbly streusel topping before adding the marshmallows.
• Try more spice: Mix in ground cinnamon, ginger, allspice or Chinese five spice along with the nutmeg for a more spiced, fall-inspired flavor.
• Swap the marshmallows: Try using mini marshmallows instead of the large ones for a more even marshmallow coating.
• Mix in some citrus: Stir in a tablespoon of orange zest to brighten up the flavors and add a fresh contrast to the sweet potatoes.

How to Store Sweet Potato and Pineapple Casserole 

Once it’s cooled, store leftover sweet potato casserole with pineapple in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat it, covered, in a warm oven or in the microwave.

Can you freeze sweet potato pineapple casserole ?

Yes, you can freeze this casserole either before or after baking it. To freeze it before baking, prepare the casserole up until the point where you would bake it, but don’t add the marshmallows. Add the marshmallows after defrosting, just before baking.

To freeze it after baking, allow the dish to cool completely, then wrap it tightly or store it in an airtight container. Freeze it for up to three months.

Sweet Potato and Pineapple Casserole Tips

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Can you use brown sugar instead of granulated sugar?

Yes, you can absolutely substitute the white sugar for brown sugar, maple syrup or another type of sweetener, if you like.

Should I peel the sweet potatoes before boiling them?

You don’t need to peel the sweet potatoes before boiling them for this sweet potato casserole with pineapple and marshmallows. Boiling them with the skin on helps retain their nutrients and makes peeling easier afterward. Once the sweet potatoes are cooked and cooled, the skins will slip off easily.

Can I use canned sweet potatoes instead of fresh?

Yes, you can start off this pineapple sweet potato casserole with mashed canned sweet potatoes or leftover mashed sweet potatoes instead of boiling fresh ones.