Crockpot sweet potato casserole

Crockpot sweet potato casserole is one of the most loved holiday comfort dishes because it combines natural sweetness, a creamy texture, and a buttery topping in a way that feels both indulgent and wholesome. Unlike traditional oven-baked versions, making sweet potato casserole in a crock pot allows the flavors to meld slowly and deeply. The sweet potatoes become perfectly tender, the spices bloom gradually, and the topping turns golden and crisp without constant monitoring.

More Casserole Recipes

This dish is a star on Thanksgiving tables, but it is equally perfect for Sunday dinners or any special gathering. It has the right balance of savory richness and sweet flavor, making it a side that appeals to kids and adults alike. If you are looking for Sweet Potato Casserole Recipes Crockpot style, this version will give you the creamy base and the iconic crunchy topping that people look forward to every holiday season.

Jump to Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

As a chef, I recommend crockpot sweet potato casserole for several important reasons:

Set it and forget it – Unlike oven casseroles that need attention, this recipe cooks gently in the slow cooker, freeing up space and time for preparing other dishes.
Flavor development – The slow, steady heat of a crockpot enhances the sweetness of the sweet potatoes while keeping them moist and tender.
Holiday stress saver – On Thanksgiving, oven space is prime real estate. Making Sweet Potato Casserole in a Crock Pot solves that problem while delivering the same satisfying result.
Flexible toppings – Whether you like pecans, marshmallows, or a crumbly streusel, the crockpot method handles it all beautifully.
Consistent results – Sweet potato crockpot recipes are forgiving. Even beginners achieve excellent flavor and texture without fear of burning or drying out.

Preparation and Cooking Time, also serving

Prep time: 20 minutes
Cook time: 3 to 3 ½ hours on high or 6 to 7 hours on low
Total time: 3 ½ to 7 ½ hours depending on heat setting
Servings: 8 to 10

Ingredients

4 pounds sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into 2-inch cubes
½ cup unsalted butter, melted
½ cup granulated sugar
¼ cup light brown sugar, packed
½ cup whole milk (can substitute half-and-half for a richer base)
2 large eggs, beaten
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
½ teaspoon salt

For the topping:

½ cup all-purpose flour
½ cup brown sugar
4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
1 cup chopped pecans
2 cups mini marshmallows (optional, for finishing)

Substitution Notes:

You can use coconut milk for dairy-free versions.
Maple syrup or honey can replace granulated sugar for natural sweetness.
Walnuts can replace pecans if desired.
For egg-free casseroles, use 2 tablespoons cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water as a binder.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the sweet potatoes

Peel the sweet potatoes and cut them into evenly sized cubes. Keeping them uniform ensures even cooking in the crockpot. Place them directly into the crockpot insert.

Step 2: Mix the base ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together melted butter, granulated sugar, brown sugar, milk, eggs, vanilla, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until smooth. Pour this mixture over the sweet potatoes and stir gently to coat all the pieces.

Step 3: Cook the sweet potato mixture

Cover the crockpot and cook on high for about 3 hours or on low for 6 to 7 hours, until the sweet potatoes are fork-tender and soft enough to mash.

Step 4: Mash and smooth the casserole base

Once the potatoes are cooked, mash them directly in the crockpot using a potato masher or a hand mixer for a smoother consistency. Spread the mashed mixture evenly across the bottom of the crockpot.

Step 5: Prepare the topping

In a bowl, combine flour, brown sugar, melted butter, and pecans until crumbly. Sprinkle this topping mixture evenly over the mashed sweet potatoes.

Step 6: Add marshmallows (optional)

If you want the classic marshmallow topping, sprinkle marshmallows evenly over the pecan topping.

Step 7: Finish cooking

Cover the crockpot again and cook on high for 30 to 45 minutes until the topping sets and marshmallows are soft and slightly golden. Serve warm.

How to Serve

Crockpot sweet potato casserole pairs beautifully with roasted turkey, glazed ham, or chicken. On the plate, serve it in a small ramekin for an elevated look or scoop directly from the crockpot for a casual family-style presentation. Garnish with extra toasted pecans or a drizzle of maple syrup for a restaurant-level finish.

Additional Tips

Toast the pecans lightly in a skillet before adding them to the topping. This brings out a deeper nutty flavor.
For smoother casserole texture, use a hand mixer after cooking instead of mashing by hand.
Keep the crockpot on warm if serving buffet-style during Thanksgiving to keep the casserole soft and creamy.
Use a liner inside the crockpot for easier cleanup when cooking large batches.

Recipe Variations

Marshmallow Only: Skip the pecans and streusel topping, and cover entirely with marshmallows for a kid-friendly version.
Savory Twist: Reduce the sugar, omit marshmallows, and add shredded cheddar with breadcrumbs for a savory side dish.
Spiced Holiday Blend: Add a pinch of ground cloves and ginger for extra seasonal warmth in your sweet potato casserole slow cooker style.

Freezing and Storage

Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or return to the crockpot on low until warm.
Freezing: Prepare the casserole without the topping, freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months, and thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating. Add topping and marshmallows just before reheating.
Make-Ahead Tip: You can prepare the mashed sweet potato mixture a day ahead, refrigerate, then transfer to the crockpot for reheating and topping before serving.

Nutritional Information (per serving, approx.)

Calories: 365
Protein: 4 g
Fat: 16 g
Carbohydrates: 52 g
Fiber: 5 g
Sugars: 26 g
Sodium: 220 mg

Final Words

Crockpot sweet potato casserole is a holiday classic that is easier than ever with the slow cooker method. It frees up oven space, guarantees tender and flavorful sweet potatoes, and allows for flexible toppings that suit every family’s taste. Whether you are preparing Sweet Potato Crockpot Recipes Thanksgiving style or want a Homemade Sweet Potato Casserole for a weeknight, this dish brings warmth and comfort to the table. With this professional yet simple method, you can serve a dish that feels festive, delicious, and memorable every time.

FAQ’s

Yes, but use a 7-quart crockpot and extend cooking time slightly to ensure the sweet potatoes cook evenly.

Yes, use a cornstarch slurry (2 tbsp cornstarch + 2 tbsp water) to help bind the casserole instead of eggs.

No, the slow cooker will soften them perfectly. Just peel and cube before adding.

Fresh sweet potatoes work best, but canned can be used in a pinch. Drain them well and reduce the cooking time by half.

Add them during the last 30 minutes of cooking on high so they melt just enough without disappearing into the casserole.