Slow Cooker Sweet Potato Casserole
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This Slow Cooker Sweet Potato Casserole is the cozy, no-fuss side dish your holiday table has been waiting for. Creamy, perfectly spiced sweet potatoes topped with gooey marshmallows and crunchy pecans—it’s everything you love about the classic casserole, but with the ease of a slow cooker. Whether you’re juggling a busy holiday schedule or just want a comforting dish with minimal effort, this recipe is here to save the day (and your oven space).
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Effortless Prep: Toss everything in the slow cooker and let it work its magic.
- Perfect for Holidays: A classic dish with no oven required—perfect for Thanksgiving or Christmas.
- Balanced Sweetness: Just the right amount of sugar to let the natural sweetness of the potatoes shine.
- Customizable Toppings: Marshmallows, pecans, or both? You decide!
Ingredients for Slow Cooker Sweet Potato Casserole
For the Sweet Potatoes
- 4 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1/4 cup butter, melted
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1/4 tsp salt
For the Topping
- 1 cup mini marshmallows
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans (optional, but highly recommended for crunch!)
How to Make Slow Cooker Sweet Potato Casserole
Step 1: Prep the Sweet Potatoes
- Place the peeled and cubed sweet potatoes into your slow cooker.
Step 2: Mix the Flavor Base
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the brown sugar, milk, melted butter, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
Step 3: Combine and Cook
- Pour the mixture over the sweet potatoes, stirring gently to coat them evenly.
- Cover and cook on low for 4 hours, or until the sweet potatoes are tender and easily mashable.
Step 4: Mash and Top
- Use a potato masher or fork to mash the sweet potatoes directly in the slow cooker until smooth (or leave them slightly chunky for texture).
- Sprinkle the mini marshmallows and chopped pecans over the top.
Step 5: Melt and Serve
- Cover and cook for an additional 10 minutes, or until the marshmallows are melted and lightly golden.
- Serve warm and watch it disappear from the table!
Pro Tips for the Best Sweet Potato Casserole
- Prep Ahead: Peel and cube the sweet potatoes the night before, then store them in water in the fridge to keep them fresh.
- Texture Preference: For a creamier casserole, use a hand mixer to whip the sweet potatoes after mashing.
- Make It Your Own: Swap pecans for walnuts, or add a sprinkle of shredded coconut for a tropical twist.
Recipe Variations
1. Dairy-Free Option
- Use almond milk or coconut milk in place of regular milk, and swap butter for coconut oil.
2. Vegan Version
- Use dairy-free marshmallows and follow the dairy-free substitutions above.
3. Crunchy Oat Topping
- Replace marshmallows with a streusel topping made from oats, brown sugar, and butter for a heartier twist.
Serving Suggestions
- Holiday Spread: Serve alongside roasted turkey, glazed ham, or a vegetarian main like stuffed acorn squash.
- Weeknight Comfort: Pair with grilled chicken or pork chops for a cozy dinner.
- Light Dessert: Add a drizzle of maple syrup and serve as a sweet ending to your meal.
FAQs About Slow Cooker Sweet Potato Casserole
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! Cook and mash the sweet potatoes in the slow cooker, then refrigerate. When ready to serve, reheat in the slow cooker on low and add the toppings right before serving.
Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes! Store in an airtight container and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat in the slow cooker or oven.
What’s the best way to mash the sweet potatoes?
A potato masher works great for a rustic texture, while a hand mixer or immersion blender will give you a smoother consistency.
Nutritional Information
Calories: ~220 per serving
Total Fat: 9g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 15mg
Sodium: 75mg
Total Carbohydrates: 36g
Dietary Fiber: 5g
Sugars: 18g
Protein: 2g
Why This Recipe Works
1. Slow Cooker Magic
The slow cooker does all the heavy lifting, freeing you up to focus on other dishes (or just relax!). The low, steady heat caramelizes the natural sugars in the sweet potatoes for a deep, rich flavor.
2. Perfectly Balanced Flavors
The combination of cinnamon, nutmeg, and vanilla enhances the natural sweetness of the potatoes without overwhelming them.
3. Crowd-Pleasing Toppings
The gooey marshmallows and crunchy pecans add a fun contrast in texture, making this dish a hit with kids and adults alike.
Make-Ahead and Leftover Tips
Meal Prep Like a Pro
- Assemble the casserole (minus the toppings) the night before and refrigerate. Cook it fresh the next day.
- Leftovers? Turn them into sweet potato pancakes or add them to muffin batter for a post-holiday treat.
Freezer-Friendly
- Portion leftovers into individual containers for easy reheating. Perfect for a quick side dish or snack!
Holiday-Worthy Presentation
For a festive touch, garnish the casserole with a sprinkle of freshly grated nutmeg or a drizzle of maple syrup right before serving. The vibrant orange hue of the sweet potatoes combined with the golden marshmallows makes this dish a showstopper on any holiday table.
Why You’ll Keep Coming Back to This Recipe
This Slow Cooker Sweet Potato Casserole combines everything you love about the classic dish with the convenience of modern cooking. It’s simple, satisfying, and endlessly customizable—perfect for holiday feasts or cozy family dinners. With its creamy texture, warm spices, and irresistible toppings, this casserole is sure to become a tradition in your home.
