Effortless Crockpot Sweet Potato Casserole: Your Ultimate Oven-Free Holiday Side

This Crockpot Sweet Potato Casserole is a true game-changer, featuring a luxuriously creamy sweet potato base crowned with a crunchy, flavorful pecan streusel. Imagine saving that precious oven space, especially during busy holiday seasons, while still serving up a beloved classic! This recipe combines convenience with an irresistible taste, making it an instant family favorite.

If your slow cooker is already reserved for another delightful dish, you can still enjoy this timeless classic! Simply head over to my equally delicious oven-baked Sweet Potato Casserole recipe.

The Magic of Crockpot Sweet Potato Casserole

Sweet potatoes hold a special place in my kitchen and my heart. From quick weeknight meals to cherished holiday feasts, these versatile root vegetables are a staple. I find myself making Roasted Sweet Potatoes almost every week, and my Sweet Potato Burrito Bowls are a go-to for a satisfying veggie meal. Even my kids, who can be picky eaters, consistently ask for the Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Skillet.

Sweet potato casserole, however, is in a league of its own. It’s a must-have at every holiday gathering—Thanksgiving, Christmas, Easter—and frankly, sometimes I whip it up just because a craving strikes! The comforting flavors, the smooth texture, and that delightful pecan crunch make it utterly irresistible.

This particular recipe is a true winner for several reasons. Firstly, it’s fantastic for summer gatherings or when you want a delicious side without heating up your kitchen, as it requires no oven. Secondly, and perhaps most crucially, it’s a lifesaver during holidays! When your oven is brimming with essential dishes like a perfectly roasted turkey, savory Thanksgiving Dressing, or vibrant Roasted Vegetables, the slow cooker steps in to handle this incredible sweet potato casserole, ensuring everything comes out perfectly without any kitchen chaos. It’s truly the ultimate hands-off holiday side dish.

Why You’ll Love This Slow Cooker Sweet Potato Casserole

Beyond the undeniable deliciousness, there are so many reasons to make this slow cooker sweet potato casserole your new go-to recipe:

• Unbeatable Flavor: A perfect balance of sweet and savory, with hints of citrus and warm vanilla, topped with a buttery, crunchy pecan streusel. It’s a symphony of textures and tastes.
• Effortless Preparation: Most of the work is hands-off! Once assembled, your slow cooker does the heavy lifting, giving you more time to focus on other tasks or simply relax.
• Oven Space Saver: This is arguably its biggest advantage, especially during holiday cooking. Free up your oven for other main courses and side dishes, reducing stress in the kitchen.
• Perfectly Creamy Texture: The slow cooking process ensures the sweet potato base becomes incredibly smooth and creamy, melting in your mouth with every bite.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prepare components of this dish in advance, making meal prep even easier.
• Versatile Side Dish: While a holiday star, it pairs beautifully with everyday dinners, bringing a touch of comfort and elegance to any meal.

Essential Ingredients for the Creamy Base

Creating the perfect Crockpot Sweet Potato Casserole starts with high-quality ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need for the rich, creamy sweet potato layer:

• Sweet Potatoes: While fresh sweet potatoes can be used (see tips below), canned sweet potatoes (often labeled as yams in light syrup) offer unparalleled convenience and speed. Just drain and they’re ready to be incorporated, saving you significant prep time.
• Unsalted Butter: Softened butter is key for effortless mixing and contributes a rich, decadent flavor to the casserole base. It also helps achieve that desirable smooth texture.
• White Sugar & Light Brown Sugar: The combination of both sugars provides a balanced sweetness and a lovely depth of flavor. White sugar offers a clean sweetness, while brown sugar introduces molasses notes that complement the sweet potatoes beautifully.
• Orange Juice: Don’t skip this! A touch of orange juice adds a bright, fresh, and slightly tangy note that cuts through the richness, preventing the casserole from becoming overly heavy. It enhances the natural sweetness of the potatoes.
• Large Eggs: Eggs act as a binder, helping to set the casserole and give it a slight lift and custard-like consistency when cooked. They contribute to the overall smooth and cohesive texture.
• Vanilla Extract: A crucial flavor enhancer, vanilla extract boosts the perceived sweetness and adds a warm, aromatic dimension that pairs perfectly with sweet potatoes and pecans.
• Evaporated Milk: This ingredient is responsible for the incredibly creamy texture of the casserole without adding excessive heaviness. It’s richer than regular milk but not as thick as condensed milk (don’t confuse the two!).
• Salt: Just a pinch of salt is essential to balance all the sweet flavors and truly bring out the natural deliciousness of the sweet potatoes.

The Irresistible Pecan Topping Ingredients:

The crunchy, sweet pecan topping is what truly elevates this casserole. Here’s what you’ll gather for this delectable streusel:

• Pecans: Finely chopped pecans are paramount for that signature crunch and nutty flavor. They toast slightly during cooking, releasing their rich oils and enhancing the overall aroma.
• Light Brown Sugar: Provides a deep, caramel-like sweetness to the topping, which perfectly contrasts with the creamy base.
• All-Purpose Flour: Helps the topping achieve a crumble-like texture, preventing it from melting completely into the casserole. It helps the streusel hold its shape and crisp up beautifully.
• Unsalted Butter: Softened butter is easily mixed into the dry ingredients to create those perfect crumbly pieces for the streusel topping.
• Vanilla Extract: Just like in the base, vanilla extract adds a layer of warmth and sweetness to the topping, tying all the flavors together.
• Salt: A small amount of salt in the topping brightens the flavors and provides a crucial balance to the sweetness, preventing it from being cloyingly sweet.

How To Make The Ultimate Crockpot Sweet Potato Casserole

Follow these simple steps to create a truly unforgettable sweet potato casserole right in your slow cooker:

1. Prepare Your Slow Cooker: Begin by lining a 6-quart slow cooker with a disposable liner for super easy cleanup, or generously spray the interior with nonstick cooking spray. This prevents sticking and ensures your casserole lifts out beautifully.
2. Craft the Creamy Sweet Potato Base: Thoroughly drain your canned sweet potatoes. In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained sweet potatoes with the softened unsalted butter, white sugar, salt, light brown sugar, orange juice, large eggs, vanilla extract, and evaporated milk. Using a stand mixer (with the paddle attachment) or a hand mixer, beat the mixture until it’s completely smooth and free of lumps. Then, pour this luscious sweet potato mixture evenly into the prepared slow cooker, smoothing the top with a spatula.
3. Assemble the Perfect Pecan Topping: In a separate medium bowl, combine the finely chopped pecans, light brown sugar, all-purpose flour, vanilla extract, softened unsalted butter, and salt. Use your fingers or a fork to mix these ingredients thoroughly until a crumbly streusel topping forms. If the mixture feels a bit too wet, add an extra tablespoon or two of flour until you achieve the desired crumbly consistency. Evenly sprinkle this irresistible topping over the smooth sweet potato layer, being careful not to press it down.
4. Slow Cook to Perfection: Securely cover your slow cooker with its lid. Cook the casserole on the HIGH setting for approximately 2 ½ to 4 hours. Cooking times can vary based on your specific appliance, as some slow cookers run hotter than others. You’ll know it’s ready when the edges are lightly browned and visibly set, and the center appears firm.
5. Rest and Serve: Once cooked, turn off the slow cooker and remove the lid. Let the casserole rest uncovered for about 20 minutes. This crucial resting period allows the casserole to firm up further and makes it easier to serve. Then, scoop out generous portions and savor every delicious bite!

Recipe Tips for Success & Variations

Achieve sweet potato casserole perfection every time with these helpful tips and creative variations:

• Achieving Your Preferred Texture: If you enjoy a bit more bite and a less uniform consistency, lightly mash the drained sweet potatoes instead of beating them until completely smooth. For an extra rustic touch, you can even leave some small chunks. Conversely, for an ultra-creamy, almost soufflé-like texture, ensure the sweet potato base is beaten thoroughly until perfectly smooth.
• Experiment with Nuts: While pecans offer a classic flavor, feel free to get creative! Swap them out for chopped walnuts, slivered almonds, or even a delightful mix of different nuts for a unique crunch and flavor profile. For an intensified nutty flavor, lightly toast your nuts in a dry skillet for a few minutes before adding them to the topping mixture.
• Spice Up Your Casserole: Elevate the fall and holiday flavors by adding a teaspoon or two of pumpkin pie spice to the sweet potato mixture. Cinnamon, nutmeg, or a hint of ground ginger can also bring wonderful warmth. For a bolder, slightly unexpected twist, a tiny pinch of cayenne pepper can add a subtle heat that complements the sweetness beautifully.
• Make-Ahead Magic: This casserole is incredibly convenient for meal prep! Prepare the sweet potato base the night before and store it covered in the refrigerator. Mix the crumble topping separately and keep it in a sealed bag in the fridge. On the day of serving, simply spread the sweet potato mixture into the slow cooker, sprinkle with the fresh crumble, and cook as directed. This ensures a fresh, crispy topping.
• Choosing Your Sweet Potatoes: While canned sweet potatoes are a fantastic shortcut, you can absolutely use fresh! You’ll need about 4-5 medium sweet potatoes (around 3-4 lbs). Peel them, cut them into 1-inch chunks, and boil or steam them until very tender (about 15-20 minutes). Drain thoroughly before mashing or beating.
• Adjusting Sweetness: Taste your sweet potato mixture before adding the eggs. If you prefer a less sweet casserole, you can slightly reduce the amount of white or brown sugar. Remember that the topping also contributes sweetness, so consider the overall balance.
• Don’t Overcook: Keep an eye on your casserole, especially towards the end of the cooking time, as slow cookers vary. Overcooking can lead to a dry base. The edges should be set and lightly browned, and the center should be firm, not runny.

What To Serve With Crockpot Sweet Potato Casserole

This versatile Crockpot Sweet Potato Casserole makes an excellent addition to a wide array of meals, from simple weeknight dinners to elaborate holiday feasts. Here are some pairing suggestions:

• For an Everyday Dinner: Elevate your weeknight meals by serving this casserole alongside flavorful main dishes. It pairs wonderfully with perfectly seasoned Grilled Chicken or a juicy Grilled Steak. Complete the meal with a crisp and refreshing Garden Salad for a balanced and satisfying dinner.
• For Thanksgiving & Christmas: This casserole truly shines on your holiday table, offering a delightful contrast to savory main courses. Serve it alongside a tender Crockpot Turkey Breast, a vibrant Thanksgiving Salad, traditional Cornbread Dressing, and warm, fluffy Dinner Rolls. The sweetness of the casserole beautifully complements the rich, savory holiday flavors.
• For Easter Brunch or Dinner: Brighten your Easter spread with this cheerful side dish. Pair it with a fresh Asparagus Salad, tender Roasted Broccoli, a hearty Cobb Salad, and these incredibly easy Drop Biscuits. It adds a touch of comforting sweetness that ties the spring menu together.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Here are answers to some common questions about making this Crockpot Sweet Potato Casserole:

• Can I use fresh sweet potatoes instead of canned? Yes, absolutely! You’ll need about 3-4 lbs of fresh sweet potatoes. Peel them, cut them into 1-inch pieces, and boil or steam them until very tender (about 15-20 minutes). Drain them thoroughly before mashing and proceeding with the recipe.
• Why is it important to cook on high and not low? Slow cookers typically perform best for casseroles like this on the high setting to ensure the edges set and the center firms up properly without drying out. Cooking on low often doesn’t generate enough heat to achieve the desired consistency and browning.
• Can I make this dairy-free or vegan? For a dairy-free version, you can substitute unsalted butter with a plant-based butter alternative and evaporated milk with full-fat canned coconut milk (not coconut cream) or a rich, unsweetened plant-based milk. For a vegan version, you would also need to use a plant-based egg substitute for the eggs. Note that these substitutions may slightly alter the texture and flavor.
• How do I prevent the topping from becoming soggy? The key is to add the topping right before cooking and to avoid pressing it down. Also, ensure your sweet potato base isn’t overly wet by draining canned potatoes well or cooking fresh potatoes thoroughly. Allowing the casserole to rest uncovered for 20 minutes after cooking also helps.
• What if my casserole isn’t firming up in the center? Slow cooker temperatures can vary. If your casserole is still too soft after the recommended cooking time, continue cooking it, checking every 30 minutes, until the center is set. Make sure your slow cooker lid fits snugly to retain heat.

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4.84 from 53 votes

Crockpot Sweet Potato Casserole

By
Chelsea Lords

This Slow Cooker Sweet Potato Casserole has a creamy sweet potato base topped with a delicious pecan crumble—perfect for freeing up oven space!

Prep Time:
20 minutes

Cook Time:
3 hours

Total Time:
3 hours 20 minutes

Servings:
10 servings, as a side

Video Walkthrough

A video demonstration of this recipe can be found on our site!

Equipment

• 6-quart Crock-Pot (6-quart)
• Stand mixer (or hand mixer)

Ingredients

Sweet Potatoes

• 2 (29-ounce) cans sweet potatoes (see note 1)
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter (softened)
• 2 tablespoons sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 2-1/2 tablespoons light brown sugar (lightly packed)
• 1 tablespoon orange juice
• 2 large eggs
• 1-1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup evaporated milk (see note 2)

Topping

• 3/4 cup chopped pecans (measured after chopping)
• 1/2 cup light brown sugar (lightly packed)
• 1/2 cup flour
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter (softened)
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

Instructions

• Line a 6-quart slow cooker with a disposable liner or spray generously with cooking spray.
• Drain sweet potatoes thoroughly. Add all the ingredients listed under “Sweet Potatoes” to a large bowl attached to a stand mixer (or use a hand mixer). Beat until the mixture is completely smooth. Pour into the bottom of the slow cooker, smoothing the top evenly.
• In a medium bowl, add all the ingredients listed under “Topping.” Stir well, using your fingers to mix until crumbles form. If the mixture is too wet, add 1–2 tablespoons of additional flour. Sprinkle evenly over the sweet potato layer, but do not press it down.
• Cover the slow cooker and cook on high for 2-½ to 4 hours, depending on how hot your appliance cooks. (Do not cook on low—it does not yield the best results). The edges will be lightly browned and set; the center should look firm.
• Turn off the Crock-Pot, remove the lid, and let stand for 20 minutes to firm up a bit. Serve and enjoy this delicious casserole!

Recipe Notes

Note 1: Canned sweet potatoes/yams: While sweet potatoes and yams are technically different, many grocery stores use interchangeable labeling. Either will work for this recipe.
Note 2: Use regular evaporated milk (not low-fat/fat-free). Alternatively, whole or 2% milk can be used, though evaporated milk provides the richest creaminess. Do not confuse evaporated milk with sweetened condensed milk, which is much sweeter and thicker.
Storage: Keep cooled leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Freeze for up to 3 months. Defrost in the fridge before reheating.

Nutrition

Serving: 1serving |
Calories: 337kcal |
Carbohydrates: 44g |
Protein: 4g |
Fat: 17g |
Saturated Fat: 7g |
Polyunsaturated Fat: 2g |
Monounsaturated Fat: 6g |
Trans Fat: 0.4g |
Cholesterol: 64mg |
Sodium: 378mg |
Potassium: 236mg |
Fiber: 8g |
Sugar: 18g |
Vitamin A: 7200IU |
Vitamin C: 6mg |
Calcium: 90mg |
Iron: 2mg

Nutrition information is automatically calculated and should be used as an approximation.

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