Creating Paula Deen Sweet Potato Casserole is a straightforward process that anyone can follow. Here’s how to make it step by step:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Prepare Sweet Potatoes: Peel and boil the sweet potatoes until tender. Drain and mash them.
3. Mix Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed sweet potatoes, granulated sugar, melted butter, milk, eggs, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt. Mix until smooth and well-combined.
4. Prepare Baking Dish: Grease a 2-quart baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
5. Spread Mixture: Pour the sweet potato mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly.
6. Prepare Topping (optional): In a separate bowl, mix the brown sugar, chopped pecans, and any additional spices. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the sweet potato layer.
7. Add Marshmallows (optional): If using marshmallows, sprinkle them over the top as well.
8. Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until heated through and the topping is golden brown.
9. Cool Slightly: Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving.

This simplified guide makes it easy for anyone to master Paula Deen Sweet Potato Casserole without a hitch!