Sweet potatoes are naturally sweet, creamy, and loaded with nutrients, making them the perfect choice for a wholesome side dish. When slow-cooked, they absorb flavors beautifully and become melt-in-your-mouth tender. This recipe uses just four simple ingredients to transform raw thinly sliced sweet potatoes into a comforting dish that’s easy to prepare and full of flavor. Whether served with dinner or enjoyed as a snack, this recipe will quickly become a household favorite.
Description
This slow cooker sweet potato recipe requires minimal effort and delivers maximum flavor. By combining sweet potatoes with four basic ingredients, you’ll achieve a delicious, slightly sweet and savory dish that cooks to perfection while you go about your day. It’s ideal for busy schedules, holiday meals, or when you want something healthy yet satisfying without much prep.
Ingredients
- 4 medium sweet potatoes, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (or coconut oil for a dairy-free option)
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar (or honey for a natural alternative)
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon (plus a pinch of nutmeg if desired)
Instructions
- Wash, peel, and thinly slice the sweet potatoes. Arrange them evenly in the slow cooker.
- In a small bowl, mix melted butter with brown sugar and cinnamon. Pour the mixture over the sweet potatoes, ensuring they are well coated.
- Cover and cook on low for 5–6 hours or on high for 2–3 hours until the sweet potatoes are fork-tender. Serve warm.
Servings
Serves 4–5 people
Nutritional Info (per serving, approx.)
- Calories: 210
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Protein: 2g
- Fat: 5g
- Fiber: 5g
- Sugar: 14g
- Sodium: 45mg
Notes
This recipe is versatile—swap brown sugar with maple syrup for a richer flavor, or add a sprinkle of nutmeg, cloves, or vanilla extract for depth. For a savory twist, reduce the sugar and add sea salt, black pepper, and a drizzle of olive oil.
Tips
Thinly slice the sweet potatoes evenly to ensure they cook at the same rate. If you prefer a slightly crisp texture, uncover the slow cooker during the last 30 minutes of cooking. To make it more filling, top with chopped nuts, dried cranberries, or a drizzle of Greek yogurt before serving.
Health Benefits
Sweet potatoes are nutrient powerhouses, rich in vitamin A, vitamin C, potassium, and fiber. They support healthy vision, strengthen immunity, and promote good digestion. Their complex carbohydrates provide long-lasting energy, while their antioxidants help fight inflammation. Choosing slow cooking helps preserve nutrients while developing natural sweetness without needing too much added sugar.
Q & A
Q: Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can slice the sweet potatoes and refrigerate them overnight. Add the other ingredients in the morning and let the slow cooker do the work.
Q: Can I make this recipe vegan?
A: Absolutely. Replace butter with coconut oil or vegan margarine, and choose maple syrup or coconut sugar instead of brown sugar.
Q: Can I store leftovers?
A: Yes, store cooled leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through.
Q: Can I use other seasonings?
A: Definitely. Try adding pumpkin spice, ginger, or even a hint of chili powder for a unique flavor twist.
Q: Will regular potatoes work in this recipe?
A: They can, but sweet potatoes bring a naturally sweet flavor and extra nutrition that makes this dish stand out.