Crockpot Sweet Potato Casserole

In my book, sweet potato casserole is an absolute must on the Thanksgiving menu. I’ll also take any chance I get to free up some oven space on the busy day, so if you're feeling the stress, take some of the work off your plate by using the Crockpot to make this classic Thanksgiving side. This slow-cooker version is every bit as delicious as the one you make in the oven, with way less work required. Just throw it all together, let it sit, and like magic you'll have a sweet, melty casserole to complete your Thanksgiving spread—minimal work (and dishes!) required.

What People Are Saying:
“This is delicious!!! Made it last year for the first time because we didn’t have room in the oven so decided to use the crockpot. Couldn’t believe how good this was. Doing it again this year!!!” - RedSword

“This will be my third year making my sweet potatoes this way. I will never make mine any other way.” - OliveBlowdryer

How To Make Crockpot Sweet Potato Casserole

INGREDIENTS

• Sweet Potatoes: I suggest peeling and chopping your sweet potatoes into medium-sized cubes so that they cook more quickly and evenly. If you prefer slightly larger chunks you can do that, just keep in mind it might affect the cook time.
• Brown Sugar: I prefer dark brown sugar for that deeper molasses flavor, but light brown sugar will work too.
• Spices: Cinnamon is of course a must have in this casserole, but if you want to up the warming fall vibes, you can add a bit of ground nutmeg as well.
• Vanilla Extract: Use pure vanilla extract for the best floral, sweet flavor that will tie the entire casserole together.
• Marshmallows: To me, marshmallows are the ultimate sweet topping to sweet potato casserole. Mini marshmallows—not the sofa cushions used for making s'mores—are also key to the maximum visual effect.
• Pecans: If you love a pecan topping on your sweet potato casserole, never fear—I’m including them here as well. I use whole pecans, but you can chop them in half if you prefer.

STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS

The best part about a slow-cooker recipe? It does all the work for you. First, grease your slow cooker with cooking spray well, then add in your peeled and chopped sweet potatoes.

Then, in a separate medium bowl, combine the melted butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, vanilla, a pinch of salt, and nutmeg if you choose to use it. Whisk to fully combine to create the butter-brown sugar mixture that this casserole is all about. Once combined, pour over the sweet potatoes and toss until they are fully coated—make sure that you toss really well. Cook the casserole on high for around 4 hours, stirring occasionally (around every hour) to mix everything together).

After around 4 hours, remove the lid and top with the marshmallows and pecans.

Cover again, then cook on high for around 10 minutes more. You’re looking for the marshmallows to be gooey and melted—they won’t get a lot of color here like they would in the oven, so I’d avoid using that as a visual marker.

The full list of ingredients and instructions can be found in the recipe below.

Recipe Tips

• Double the recipe. If you're serving a big crowd, feel free to double this casserole! Simply cook on low, and check back after 6 hours.
• Make it smooth. This recipe results in a slightly chunkier sweet potato casserole, which we love. If you prefer a smoother consistency, use a potato masher to get your desired texture. Before you add your toppings, use a potato masher or potato ricer to get your sweet potatoes as smooth as you like. If you like them super-smooth, transfer the mixture to a food processor or blender and give them a blitz. Then transfer the potatoes back into your slow-cooker and assemble the topping.
• How to serve Crockpot sweet potato casserole. If you'd prefer to serve your casserole in another container, simply transfer your potatoes to an oven-safe dish before making the topping. Preheat your broiler to high, top the potatoes with marshmallows and pecans, then let the whole thing get toasty in the oven. This should only take a minute or two, so keep a close eye—every broiler is different.
  

Sweet Potato Casserole Variations

Marshmallows are a must-have for me, but if you’re not a fan, checkout our classic sweet potato casserole or Ruth’s Chris sweet potato casserole to focus on that signature streusel topping. Love marshmallows, but no slow cooker? Our classic sweet potato casserole with marshmallows nails the classic, toasty vibes.

Storage

If you have any leftovers, put them in an airtight container in the fridge and store for 3-5 days.