Name: Slow Cooker Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 8 h
Total time: 8 h 15 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 pounds sweet potatoes, peeled and diced into ½ inch cubes; ¾ cup brown sugar, packed; ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted; 2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 ½ cups mini marshmallows; 1 cup pecans, whole

Jump to Recipe·5 from 23 reviews

The Slow Cooker Sweet Potato Casserole is a holiday lifesaver, freeing up precious oven space while delivering rich, velvety sweet potatoes topped with golden, melty marshmallows and crunchy pecans. This set-it-and-forget-it dish is every bit as comforting and crave-worthy as the classic version, yet with far less fuss and hands-on time. The slow cooker brings out the natural sweetness and creaminess of the sweet potatoes, while the brown sugar, spices, and buttery vanilla mixture weave in a warmth that feels like a cozy hug. It’s festive, nostalgic, and about to become a new favorite for any special gathering!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Slow Cooker Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

One of the best things about Slow Cooker Sweet Potato Casserole is how a handful of simple, wholesome ingredients come together to create absolute magic. Every component has a purpose, from the sweetness of the potatoes to the crunchy pecan topping; don’t skip a thing!

Sweet potatoes: Peeled and chopped into cubes, these are the star of the show, providing gorgeous color and a naturally creamy base.
Brown sugar: Packed brown sugar adds that deep, caramel-like richness that sweet potatoes crave.
Unsalted butter: Melted to effortlessly blend into every bite, bringing a pillowy, luxurious texture.
Pumpkin pie spice: Just a couple teaspoons transform the casserole with that classic autumnal warmth.
Ground cinnamon: A must for layering in more cozy, familiar flavor.
Salt: Don’t skip it — this small amount keeps all the flavors balanced and just sweet enough.
Vanilla extract: Just a teaspoon lends beautiful aroma and a bakery-style finish.
Mini marshmallows: The secret to that iconic gooey-topped casserole everyone reaches for first.
Pecans: Whole pecans add crunch, visual flair, and a slight earthiness against the sweet backdrop.

How to Make Slow Cooker Sweet Potato Casserole

Step 1: Prep Your Slow Cooker

Start by spraying your slow cooker insert with non-stick spray. This makes sure clean-up is a breeze and prevents all that sticky goodness from sticking to the sides. It’s a tiny step, but you’ll be so grateful for it later!

Step 2: Sweet Potato Prep

Wash, peel, and dice the sweet potatoes into ½ inch cubes. It might seem fussy, but these small, evenly sized pieces cook perfectly for that signature, scoopable casserole texture.

Step 3: Mix the Flavor Magic

In a medium bowl, whisk together the brown sugar, melted butter, pumpkin pie spice, cinnamon, salt, and vanilla extract. This sweet, fragrant blend infuses the potatoes with layers of flavor you’ll absolutely love.

Step 4: Assemble Everything in the Cooker

Toss your chopped sweet potatoes into the slow cooker. Then pour the buttery, spiced mixture over them, stirring to coat every piece. This is where the transformation begins! Cover the cooker and set it to LOW for 7-8 hours, or HIGH for 3-4 hours, depending on your schedule.

Step 5: Mash and Top

Once the sweet potatoes are fork-tender and almost falling apart, remove the lid and mash them right in the slow cooker. You can use a potato masher for rustic texture or a hand mixer for extra-smooth potatoes. Next, evenly sprinkle the mini marshmallows over the top and replace the lid for about 5-10 minutes. Those marshmallows will melt into a perfectly gooey layer!

Step 6: Finish with Pecans and Serve

Right before serving, scatter the whole pecans over the melty marshmallows. This gives each scoop irresistible crunch and flavor contrast. Serve your Slow Cooker Sweet Potato Casserole straight from the crock, and watch it disappear to rave reviews!

How to Serve Slow Cooker Sweet Potato Casserole

Garnishes

For a truly eye-catching presentation, sprinkle extra toasted pecans or even a handful of golden brown coconut flakes over the melted marshmallows just before serving. A drizzle of maple syrup or a hint of flaky sea salt can also elevate every bite. This little finishing touch makes Slow Cooker Sweet Potato Casserole look as good as it tastes!

Side Dishes

Pair your casserole with classic holiday staples like roasted turkey, honey-glazed ham, or herby roasted vegetables for a harmoniously balanced feast. The creamy sweetness of the casserole acts as the perfect counterpoint to savory, robust flavors on the table.

Creative Ways to Present

Consider scooping portions into colorful ramekins or a vintage casserole dish for individual servings; it adds a splash of fun and makes everyone feel special. For potlucks, serve directly in your slow cooker’s removable insert to keep things warm and fuss-free. If you’re feeling fancy, pile spoonfuls into a hollowed-out roasted pumpkin for a show-stopping centerpiece!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Slow Cooker Sweet Potato Casserole keeps beautifully! Let the dish cool completely, then transfer any extras to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to four days — the flavors actually deepen, making those next-day bites even dreamier.

Freezing

If you’ve got a surplus (lucky you!), this casserole also freezes well. Spoon portions into freezer-safe containers, omitting marshmallows until you’re ready to serve. It’ll keep for up to three months; just thaw overnight in the refrigerator.

Reheating

To reheat, warm leftovers in the microwave or cover and bake in a 350°F oven until hot. If you’re refreshing from frozen, add a fresh layer of marshmallows and pecans before reheating for that just-made taste and oozy topping.

FAQs

Can I make Slow Cooker Sweet Potato Casserole without marshmallows?

Absolutely! If marshmallows aren’t your thing, try topping with a brown sugar and pecan streusel instead for a crunchy, sweet alternative. Or just go heavy on the pecans for a lovely, toasty finish.

How do I make it dairy free?

Easy! Substitute the butter with a vegan butter or coconut oil, and skip the marshmallows (or use a vegan version). The rest of the ingredients are naturally dairy free, making Slow Cooker Sweet Potato Casserole perfect for everyone around your table.

Can I prep the casserole the night before?

Yes! Simply peel and chop your sweet potatoes, mix your butter and spice blend, and store everything separately in the fridge. The next day, combine and cook as directed — no added stress in the morning.

Which slow cooker size works best?

A standard 6-quart slow cooker is perfect for this recipe, offering enough space for everything to cook evenly. If you’re halving or doubling the recipe, adjust the size of your cooker or use multiple cookers for big gatherings.

How do I get browned marshmallows on top?

If you love that toasty finish, place the slow cooker insert (as long as it’s oven-safe) under your broiler for just a few minutes until the marshmallows are golden brown. Keep a close eye — they brown quickly!

Final Thoughts

Once you try this Slow Cooker Sweet Potato Casserole, you’ll wonder how you ever managed holiday meals without it. Effortless, crowd-pleasing, and outrageously delicious, it’s a cozy classic destined to earn a permanent spot at your festive table. Give it a go and let it bring a little extra joy and flavor to your next gathering!