Nothing says holiday comfort like sweet, tender sweet potatoes topped with melty marshmallows. This Crockpot Sweet Potatoes with Marshmallows recipe brings the warmth and coziness of a classic holiday favorite right to your table with minimal effort. The sweetness of brown sugar and maple syrup blends perfectly with the buttery richness and the hint of spices, creating a side dish that’s as delicious as it is easy to make.
Whether you’re preparing a Thanksgiving feast or a cozy family dinner, this dish is a crowd-pleaser that everyone will love.
Why This Recipe Works?
This recipe is a perfect balance of simplicity and flavor. Using a slow cooker means you can set it and forget it, freeing up valuable oven space for other holiday dishes. The slow, gentle cooking enhances the natural sweetness of the sweet potatoes, while brown sugar and maple syrup add depth. Topping it all off with marshmallows creates that classic, nostalgic flavor everyone craves during the holidays.
Ingredients for Crockpot Sweet Potatoes with Marshmallows
Here’s everything you need to make this comforting dish:
- 4 large sweet potatoes, about 2 lbs, peeled and diced into 1/2 inch cubes – Sweet potatoes provide natural sweetness and color.
- ¾ cup packed brown sugar – Adds depth of flavor and a hint of molasses.
- ¼ cup maple syrup – Brings a rich, earthy sweetness that complements the sweet potatoes.
- ½ cup butter, sliced into pieces – For a rich, buttery taste that enhances every bite.
- 1 tablespoon pumpkin pie spice – A mix of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves, or use just cinnamon with a pinch of nutmeg.
- 1 teaspoon salt – Balances the sweetness and brings out the flavors.
- 2 cups mini marshmallows – For that classic, melted topping everyone loves.
Optional Add-Ins for Extra Flavor
- Pecans or walnuts – Sprinkle on top for a nutty crunch.
- Vanilla extract – A teaspoon adds warmth and extra sweetness.
- Orange zest – Adds brightness and pairs well with the maple syrup.
Instructions for Crockpot Sweet Potatoes with Marshmallows
Step-by-Step Directions
- Prepare the Slow Cooker – Spray an 8-quart slow cooker with non-stick spray to prevent sticking.
- Combine Ingredients – Place the diced sweet potatoes in the slow cooker. Add the brown sugar, maple syrup, butter, pumpkin pie spice, and salt. Stir to combine everything, ensuring the sweet potatoes are evenly coated with the buttery, sweet mixture.
- Cook on High – Place the lid on the slow cooker and set it to high for 4 hours. The sweet potatoes should be tender and easy to pierce with a fork when done. You may notice extra sauce at the bottom, which you can either discard or drizzle over the sweet potatoes when serving.
- Add Marshmallows – Five minutes before serving, remove the lid and top the sweet potatoes with mini marshmallows. Place the lid back on and allow the marshmallows to melt for 3 to 5 minutes until soft and gooey.
- Serve Hot – Once the marshmallows have melted, serve the sweet potatoes immediately. Enjoy the delicious, comforting blend of flavors and textures!
Tips for Success
- Dice the Sweet Potatoes Evenly – This helps them cook uniformly, ensuring all pieces are tender at the same time.
- Adjust Sweetness to Taste – If you prefer a less sweet dish, reduce the brown sugar by ¼ cup or drizzle less maple syrup.
- Timing the Marshmallows – Be careful not to over-melt the marshmallows, as they can become too runny. Three to five minutes should be perfect.
Why This Recipe is Perfect for the Holidays?
Convenient and Time-Saving
Using a slow cooker for this recipe frees up valuable oven space, making it ideal for holiday cooking. You can prepare this side dish hours in advance and let it cook while you focus on other parts of the meal.
Classic Flavors with a Modern Twist
This recipe combines the classic flavors of a traditional sweet potato casserole with the ease of slow cooking. The result is a dish that tastes like it’s been in the oven all day, with soft, caramelized sweet potatoes and gooey marshmallows on top.
Perfect for Potlucks and Gatherings
This dish travels well, making it perfect for bringing to family gatherings, potlucks, or holiday parties. Just leave it in the crockpot and plug it in to keep warm until it’s time to serve!
Serving Suggestions for Crockpot Sweet Potatoes with Marshmallows
Pairing Ideas
Crockpot Sweet Potatoes with Marshmallows pair beautifully with both savory and sweet dishes. Here are a few ideas for serving:
- Roasted Turkey or Ham – The sweetness of the potatoes and marshmallows complements the savory flavors of holiday meats.
- Green Beans or Brussels Sprouts – Serve with roasted vegetables to balance the richness of the sweet potatoes.
- Stuffing or Dressing – A classic Thanksgiving side that pairs well with sweet and savory dishes alike.
Make It a Holiday Feast
For a festive spread, serve these sweet potatoes alongside other holiday favorites like cranberry sauce, cornbread, and a fresh green salad. The rich, sweet flavors of this dish add variety and make it a standout on any holiday table.
Storage and Reheating Tips
How to Store Leftovers
If you have leftovers, let the sweet potatoes cool completely before storing them. Transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The dish reheats beautifully and keeps its flavor well.
Reheating Tips for Best Results
To reheat, you can place the sweet potatoes back in the crockpot on low for about an hour, or until warmed through. Alternatively, you can microwave individual servings, but be mindful that marshmallows can get sticky.
Health Benefits and Nutritional Information
Nutritional Breakdown
One serving of Crockpot Sweet Potatoes with Marshmallows (about 1/8th of the recipe) contains approximately:
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Fat: 14g
- Carbohydrates: 46g
- Protein: 2g
Making It Lighter
- Reduce Sugar – Cut back on the brown sugar or maple syrup if you prefer a less sweet version.
- Use Light Butter – Substitute some of the butter for a lighter option to reduce the fat content.
- Add Extra Veggies – Try adding diced carrots or parsnips to the slow cooker for more fiber and nutrients.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Make This Recipe Without Marshmallows?
Yes! For a less sweet version, omit the marshmallows and top with chopped nuts or a sprinkle of cinnamon.
Can I Use Other Types of Sweet Potatoes?
Absolutely! Any type of sweet potato will work in this recipe, though some varieties are sweeter than others. Adjust the sugar to taste if needed.
Can I Add Toppings Other Than Marshmallows?
Yes, feel free to get creative with your toppings. Pecans, walnuts, or even a drizzle of honey can add an extra layer of flavor and texture.
Can This Recipe Be Made Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the ingredients the night before and store them in the refrigerator, then start cooking in the morning. Add marshmallows just before serving for the best texture.
Printable Recipe Card
Crockpot Sweet Potatoes with Marshmallows Recipe
Ingredients:
- 4 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
- ¾ cup packed brown sugar
- ¼ cup maple syrup
- ½ cup butter, sliced
- 1 tablespoon pumpkin pie spice
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 cups mini marshmallows
Directions:
- Spray an 8-quart slow cooker with non-stick spray.
- Add sweet potatoes, brown sugar, maple syrup, butter, pumpkin pie spice, and salt; stir to combine.
- Cover and cook on high for 4 hours, until potatoes are tender.
- Five minutes before serving, top with marshmallows and cover until melted. Serve hot!