Name: Slow Cooker Sweet Potatoes Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 3 h
Total time: 3 h 5 min
Yield: 6
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 5 medium sweet potatoes

The slow cooker sweet potatoes recipe is a simple yet delicious dish that exhibits the sweet, earthy flavors of sweet potatoes. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity, using just sweet potatoes and a slow cooker to yield a healthy and satisfying side dish. It saves time and is perfect for those busy days when you want to return home to a warm, cooked meal.

Photos of Slow Cooker Sweet Potatoes Recipe

The sole ingredient of this recipe is sweet potatoes. These are easily available in any supermarket or local grocery store. While selecting sweet potatoes, opt for the ones that are firm, without any cuts or bruises. The skin should be smooth and even colored. Sweet potatoes are a great source of fiber, vitamins, and minerals which makes this recipe not just tasty but also healthy.

Slow Cooker Sweet Potatoes Ingredients

Sweet potatoes: Sweet potatoes are the main ingredient in this recipe. They provide a high amount of fiber and are rich in an array of vitamins and minerals, including iron, calcium, selenium, and they're a good source of most of our B vitamins and vitamin C.

One reader, Joellyn Swenson says:

This slow cooker sweet potatoes recipe is a game-changer! The potatoes turn out perfectly tender and sweet, making it a delightful addition to any meal. The convenience of using a slow cooker makes it even better. I highly recommend trying this recipe for a hassle-free and delicious side dish.

Joellyn Swenson

Techniques Required for Slow Cooker Sweet Potatoes

How to prepare sweet potatoes: Wash and scrub the sweet potatoes well, then use a fork to poke holes all over them. Wrap the potatoes in foil before placing them in the slow cooker.

How to cook in a slow cooker: Place the prepared sweet potatoes in the slow cooker and cook on low for 6 to 8 hours, or on high for 3 to 4 hours.

How to serve: Once the sweet potatoes are cooked, serve them warm and enjoy!

How To Make Slow Cooker Sweet Potatoes

Tender sweet potatoes couldn’t be easier with this slow cooker recipe! Takes 5 minutes to prep, and let the slow cooker do its work on this tasty side dish.

Preparation: 5 minutes

Cooking: 3 hours

Total: 3 hours 5 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

5medium sweet potatoes

Instructions

Wash and scrub the sweet potato well. Using a fork, poke holes all over it, then wrap the potatoes in foil.
Put the potatoes in the slow cooker, and cook on Low for 6 to 8 hours or on High for 3 to 4 hours.
Serve warm, and enjoy!

Nutrition

Calories: 93.17kcal
Fat: 0.05g
Saturated Fat: 0.02g
Monounsaturated Fat: 0.00g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.02g
Carbohydrates: 21.80g
Fiber: 3.25g
Sugar: 4.53g
Protein: 1.70g
Sodium: 59.58mg
Calcium: 32.50mg
Potassium: 365.08mg
Iron: 0.66mg
Vitamin A: 768.08µg
Vitamin C: 2.60mg

Helpful Technique Tip for Slow Cooker Sweet Potatoes

To ensure your sweet potatoes are cooked evenly in the slow cooker, try to choose potatoes that are similar in size. This way, they will all be ready at the same time. Also, remember to poke enough holes in the potatoes before wrapping them in foil. This allows the heat to penetrate better, resulting in a more evenly cooked potato.

Time-Saving Tips for Making Slow Cooker Sweet Potatoes

Prep ahead: Wash, scrub, and wrap the sweet potatoes in foil the night before. Store them in the refrigerator, so all you have to do in the morning is place them in the slow cooker.

Batch cooking: Make extra sweet potatoes and store them in the fridge for up to 4 days. Use them as a side dish, in salads, or as a base for other meals throughout the week.

Use a timer: Set a timer to remind you to check the sweet potatoes, so you can adjust the cooking time if needed without constantly monitoring them.

Meal prep: Plan to cook the sweet potatoes while you're doing other meal prep to maximize your time and efficiency in the kitchen.

Substitute Ingredients For Slow Cooker Sweet Potatoes Recipe

sweet potatoes - Substitute with butternut squash: Butternut squash has a similar sweet and nutty flavor to sweet potatoes, and it cooks well in a slow cooker, making it a great substitute.
sweet potatoes - Substitute with acorn squash: Acorn squash has a slightly nutty and sweet flavor, similar to sweet potatoes, and it can be cooked in a slow cooker to achieve a similar texture.

Presentation Ideas for Slow Cooker Sweet Potatoes

Elevate the sweet potatoes: Arrange the sweet potatoes on a bed of edible flowers and microgreens to add a pop of color and freshness to the dish.
Garnish with a drizzle of honey: Drizzle a small amount of local honey over the sweet potatoes to enhance the natural sweetness and add a touch of elegance to the presentation.
Sprinkle with toasted nuts: Garnish the sweet potatoes with a sprinkle of toasted pecans or walnuts for a delightful crunch and nutty flavor.
Serve on a bed of whipped mascarpone: Present the sweet potatoes on a luxurious bed of whipped mascarpone to add a creamy and indulgent element to the dish.
Dust with cinnamon and nutmeg: Lightly dust the sweet potatoes with a mixture of cinnamon and nutmeg to infuse the dish with warm, aromatic flavors and a touch of sophistication.
Accompany with a side of citrus-infused yogurt: Serve the sweet potatoes alongside a dollop of citrus-infused yogurt for a refreshing and tangy contrast to the natural sweetness of the dish.

Essential Tools for Making This Recipe

Slow cooker: A countertop electrical cooking appliance used for simmering, which is perfect for slow-cooking sweet potatoes to perfection.
Foil: Aluminum foil is used to wrap the sweet potatoes before placing them in the slow cooker, helping to retain moisture and heat during the cooking process.
Fork: A kitchen utensil with prongs, used for poking holes in the sweet potatoes to allow steam to escape during cooking.
Serving dish: A dish used for serving the warm sweet potatoes once they are cooked and ready to be enjoyed.

Storage and Freezing Instructions for Slow Cooker Sweet Potatoes

Let the sweet potatoes cool completely before storing them in an airtight container or resealable plastic bag
Cooked sweet potatoes can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days
To freeze, wrap each cooled sweet potato individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place them in a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag
Frozen sweet potatoes can be stored for up to 3 months
When ready to eat, thaw the frozen sweet potatoes in the refrigerator overnight
Reheat the thawed or refrigerated sweet potatoes in the microwave, oven, or air fryer until heated through
- Microwave: Place the sweet potato on a microwave-safe plate and heat for 2-3 minutes, or until heated through
- Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C), wrap the sweet potato in foil, and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through
- Air Fryer: Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C), place the sweet potato in the basket, and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until heated through

How To Reheat Leftover Slow Cooker Sweet Potatoes

Reheat in the oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Wrap the leftover sweet potatoes in aluminum foil and place them on a baking sheet. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. This method helps to retain the moisture and texture of the sweet potatoes.
Microwave reheating: Place the leftover sweet potatoes on a microwave-safe plate and cover them with a damp paper towel. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, or until heated through. Check and stir the potatoes every 30 seconds to ensure even heating. This method is quick and convenient, but may result in slightly softer potatoes.
Reheat on the stovetop: Cut the leftover sweet potatoes into bite-sized pieces. Heat a tablespoon of butter or olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the sweet potato pieces and cook, stirring occasionally, until heated through and slightly crispy on the edges. This method adds a nice texture and flavor to the reheated potatoes.
Repurpose into a new dish: Use the leftover sweet potatoes as an ingredient in a new recipe. Mash them and use them as a filling for quesadillas, mix them into a frittata or omelet, or blend them into a smoothie for a nutritious and flavorful twist. This method allows you to get creative and enjoy your leftovers in a new way.

Interesting Fact About Slow Cooker Sweet Potatoes

Sweet potatoes are an excellent source of vitamin A, which is essential for good vision and overall eye health. Consuming just one medium-sized sweet potato provides more than 400% of the daily recommended intake of vitamin A.

Is Making Slow Cooker Sweet Potatoes Cost-Effective?

This slow cooker sweet potatoes recipe is highly cost-effective for a household. The main ingredient, sweet potatoes, is budget-friendly and packed with nutrients. With minimal energy consumption from the slow cooker, it's an economical choice. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $5, making it an affordable and nutritious option. The overall verdict for this recipe is 9/10, considering its simplicity, health benefits, and cost-effectiveness.

Are Slow Cooker Sweet Potatoes Healthy?

This slow cooker sweet potato recipe is a healthy and nutritious choice. Here's why:

Sweet potatoes are a nutrient-dense food, packed with vitamins A and C, potassium, and fiber. They are also low in calories and fat, making them an excellent addition to any balanced diet.
The recipe uses minimal ingredients, focusing on the natural goodness of sweet potatoes without adding any unhealthy fats, sugars, or processed ingredients.
Slow cooking the sweet potatoes helps retain their nutritional value, as opposed to other cooking methods that may lead to nutrient loss.

To make this recipe even healthier, consider the following suggestions:

Instead of using foil, place the sweet potatoes directly in the slow cooker to avoid any potential leaching of aluminum into the food.
Experiment with different sweet potato varieties, such as purple or Japanese sweet potatoes, to enjoy a wider range of antioxidants and phytochemicals.
After cooking, try mashing the sweet potatoes with a little bit of olive oil, cinnamon, and a pinch of sea salt for a flavorful and healthy side dish.
Incorporate the cooked sweet potatoes into other healthy recipes, such as salads, grain bowls, or veggie-packed wraps for a boost of nutrition and flavor.
Pair the sweet potatoes with a lean protein source and a variety of colorful vegetables to create a well-rounded, satisfying meal that supports overall health and well-being.

Editor's Opinion on This Slow Cooker Sweet Potato Recipe

This slow cooker sweet potato recipe is a simple and convenient way to prepare sweet potatoes. The slow cooking process allows the natural sugars in the sweet potatoes to caramelize, resulting in a rich and sweet flavor. The foil wrapping helps to retain the moisture and ensures that the sweet potatoes are tender and delicious. This recipe is perfect for busy days when you want a nutritious and satisfying side dish without much effort. It's a great addition to any meal and can be enjoyed with a variety of toppings or seasonings to suit your taste.

Enhance Your Slow Cooker Sweet Potatoes Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Mashed Cauliflower: Create a creamy and flavorful mashed cauliflower with garlic and herbs for a lighter alternative to mashed potatoes.

Grilled Asparagus: Serve up some tender and flavorful grilled asparagus spears seasoned with olive oil, salt, and pepper for a delicious and healthy side dish.

Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Roast Brussels sprouts with balsamic glaze and crispy bacon for a savory and irresistible side dish that complements the sweetness of the slow cooker sweet potatoes.

Similar Recipes to Slow Cooker Sweet Potatoes

Roasted Vegetable Salad: Mix and match your favorite vegetables, toss them in olive oil and seasoning, then roast until tender. Serve over a bed of greens with a tangy vinaigrette.

Braised Beef Stew: Brown the beef, then simmer it with onions, carrots, and potatoes in a rich broth until the meat is tender and the flavors have melded together.

Fruit Salsa with Cinnamon Chips: Chop up a variety of fresh fruits and mix them with a splash of citrus juice for a refreshing salsa. Bake tortilla wedges with cinnamon and sugar for dippable chips.

Why trust this Slow Cooker Sweet Potatoes Recipe:

This slow cooker sweet potatoes recipe guarantees tender, flavorful results every time. By using the slow cooker method, the sweet potatoes retain their natural sweetness and nutrients. The simplicity of this recipe, with just sweet potatoes and foil, ensures that the natural flavors shine through. The slow cooking process allows the sweet potatoes to caramelize, enhancing their sweetness and creating a delicious, melt-in-your-mouth texture. Trust this recipe for a hassle-free, nutritious, and delightful addition to any meal.

Share your thoughts on this Slow Cooker Sweet Potatoes Recipe in the Recipe Sharing forum section. Let's discuss any tweaks or variations you've tried!

FAQ:

How long do I need to cook the sweet potatoes in the slow cooker?

You can cook the sweet potatoes on low for 6 to 8 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours.

Do I need to wrap the sweet potatoes in foil before putting them in the slow cooker?

Yes, it's recommended to wrap the sweet potatoes in foil after poking holes in them with a fork.

Can I add any seasonings or spices to the sweet potatoes while they cook?

Absolutely! You can add a sprinkle of cinnamon, a dash of nutmeg, or a drizzle of honey for extra flavor.

Should I peel the sweet potatoes before cooking them in the slow cooker?

It's not necessary to peel the sweet potatoes before cooking them. The skin will become tender and can be easily removed after cooking, if desired.

Can I prepare the sweet potatoes ahead of time and reheat them later?

Yes, you can prepare the sweet potatoes ahead of time and reheat them when you're ready to serve. Simply store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator and reheat in the microwave or oven.