As the crisp autumn air starts to settle in, nothing beats the cozy aroma of sweet potatoes slowly caramelizing in the crockpot—it’s like a warm blanket for your senses. I remember last fall, when my kitchen turned into a mini haven with these sweet, earthy gems, making the house smell like pure comfort. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a kitchen newbie, this recipe is a no-fuss, set-it-and-forget-it kind of deal that feels like a hug from the inside.
Steps
- Clean the sweet potatoes thoroughly under running water. Do not peel or poke holes in them.
- Arrange the cleaned sweet potatoes in a single layer at the bottom of a 6-quart slow cooker. It’s important to ensure they are placed evenly for consistent cooking.
- Cover the slow cooker and set it to cook on high for 3-4 hours, or on low for 6-8 hours. The sweet potatoes are done when they can be easily pierced with a fork, so start checking at 3 hours if cooking on high, and at 6 hours if on low.
- Once cooked, carefully remove the sweet potatoes from the slow cooker. Allow them to cool slightly before slicing them open.
- Add your preferred toppings or proteins to the sweet potatoes to customize them to your liking. They can be served immediately or stored for later use in other recipes.
Ingredients
- 8 medium sweet potatoes, washed and scrubbed
Nutritional Values
Calories: 1552kcal | Carbohydrates: 360g | Protein: 32g | Sodium: 592mg | Potassium: 6096mg | Fiber: 56g | Sugar: 72g | Vitamin A: 256504IU | Vitamin C: 40mg | Calcium: 544mg | Iron: 8mg
FAQ
- Can I cook sweet potatoes in a slow cooker without water?
- Yes, you can cook sweet potatoes in a slow cooker without adding water. The potatoes will become tender and fluffy without any additional liquid, but make sure not to add water to avoid them becoming mushy.
- How many sweet potatoes can I cook at once in a slow cooker?
- You can cook between 1 to 8 medium sweet potatoes in a 6-quart slow cooker. If you’re only cooking 1-2 potatoes, place them in the center of the slow cooker for even cooking.
- What is the ideal texture of slow cooker sweet potatoes?
- The skins of slow-cooked sweet potatoes will be moderately crispy, and the insides will be tender and fluffy. If you prefer a very crispy skin, you can broil them for a few minutes after cooking.
- How can I store and reheat cooked sweet potatoes?
- Cooked sweet potatoes can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, use a microwave in 30-second increments or bake in a 350°F oven for 20-25 minutes until warmed through.
- What are some serving suggestions for slow cooker sweet potatoes?
- You can serve them with brown sugar and butter for a sweet option, or add toppings like steamed broccoli and cheese, garlic parmesan, vegetarian chili, or enchilada chicken for a more savory dish. They also make a great base for a baked potato bar.
Tips
- To ensure the sweet potatoes remain tender and fluffy, avoid adding water to the slow cooker. Adding water can result in mushy potatoes, which is not the desired texture for this recipe.
- For a crispier skin, once the sweet potatoes are cooked in the slow cooker, you can place them under a broiler for a few minutes. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning.
- If you’re pressed for time, you can cook the sweet potatoes on high for a shorter period. Start checking for doneness at around 3 hours to ensure they are tender.
- Cooked sweet potatoes can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, use a microwave in 30-second intervals or warm them in a 350°F oven for 20-25 minutes.
Equipment
- Slow Cooker (6-quart) – Essential for cooking the sweet potatoes as described in the recipe.
