Why This Slow Cooker Sweet Potato Casserole Works So Well
Using a slow cooker gives sweet potatoes time to soften gently and develop a naturally deeper flavor. As they cook, the sugars caramelize slightly, enhancing richness without extra effort. The topping—made with pecans, brown sugar, and butter—adds a crunchy contrast that keeps every bite satisfying.
This casserole is especially convenient for holidays when oven space is limited. It fits perfectly alongside turkey, ham, or any main dish, and stays warm for serving without drying out.
Ingredients Needed
For the Sweet Potato Base:
- 4–5 large sweet potatoes, peeled and chopped
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup brown sugar
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- ½ cup milk (or heavy cream for extra creaminess)
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon nutmeg
- Pinch of salt
For the Pecan Topping:
- 1 cup chopped pecans
- ½ cup brown sugar
- ⅓ cup butter, melted
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
How to Make Slow Cooker Sweet Potato Casserole
1. Prepare the Sweet Potatoes
Peel and chop your sweet potatoes into medium pieces. This allows them to cook evenly in the slow cooker without turning mushy too early.
2. Cook in the Slow Cooker
Place the sweet potatoes directly inside the slow cooker. Add the melted butter, both sugars, cinnamon, nutmeg, vanilla, and a pinch of salt.
Cover and cook on HIGH for 3 hours or LOW for 5–6 hours, until the potatoes are very soft.
3. Mash the Potatoes
Once soft, use a potato masher to mash them directly in the slow cooker.
Stir in the milk and eggs until the mixture becomes creamy and smooth.
4. Make the Pecan Topping
In a small bowl, mix pecans, brown sugar, melted butter, and flour until crumbly.
5. Add the Topping
Sprinkle the pecan mixture evenly over the mashed sweet potatoes.
6. Continue Cooking
Cover and cook for another 30–45 minutes on HIGH.
This helps the topping set and lightly caramelize.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole pairs beautifully with:
- Roasted turkey or chicken
- Baked ham
- Stuffing
- Mashed potatoes
- Green bean casserole
It also makes a delicious side dish with grilled meats or served as a warm, cozy dessert topped with whipped cream.
Tips for the Perfect Sweet Potato Casserole
Use fresh sweet potatoes
Canned varieties can make the mixture watery, so fresh is best for texture.
Don’t skip the eggs
They help the casserole set and maintain structure while still staying creamy.
For a deeper flavor
Add 1 tablespoon of maple syrup or honey to the mashed mixture.
Want a fluffier texture?
Beat the mixture with a hand mixer before adding the topping.
Variations You Can Try
Marshmallow Topping
Replace pecans with mini marshmallows during the last 15 minutes of cooking.
Coconut-Pecan Topping
Add ¼ cup shredded coconut to the topping mixture.
Savory Version
Skip the sugar and add:
- 2 tablespoons butter
- Fresh thyme
- Garlic powder
- Salt and pepper
Gluten-Free Option
Replace flour in the topping with almond flour or omit it completely.
How to Store & Reheat
Refrigerator
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezer
Freeze cooled casserole in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months.
Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
- Microwave: Warm individual portions for 1–2 minutes.
- Oven: Heat at 350°F (175°C) for 15–20 minutes.
- Slow Cooker: Keep on WARM setting for gatherings.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I prep this the night before?
Yes. Prepare the sweet potato mixture and topping separately, refrigerate, and assemble the next day in the slow cooker.
Can I make it without pecans?
Absolutely—substitute walnuts, almonds, or just use the sweet potato mixture alone.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, as long as your slow cooker is 6–7 quarts or larger.
Final Thoughts
This Slow Cooker Pecan Sweet Potato Casserole is a must-make dish for holiday meals, potlucks, or cozy fall dinners. It’s simple, creamy, and packed with comforting flavors everyone loves. With minimal prep and hands-off cooking, it’s the perfect way to enjoy a classic favorite without the stress.