How To Cook Sweet Potato In Slow Cooker [GUIDE]

Sweet potatoes are a versatile, nutrient-packed root vegetable that can be prepared in countless ways, from roasting to mashing. One of the most convenient and foolproof methods is cooking them in a slow cooker. Slow cooking sweet potatoes not only brings out their natural sweetness but also creates a tender, creamy texture that is hard to achieve through other methods. Unlike baking or boiling, slow cooking allows the flavors to concentrate while preserving nutrients, making it a perfect option for busy households or anyone who wants a set-it-and-forget-it cooking approach. Whether you’re preparing them as a side dish, a base for soups, or a component of a main meal, understanding the nuances of slow-cooking sweet potatoes can elevate your culinary game.

How Long To Cook Sweet Potato In Slow Cooker

The cooking time for sweet potatoes in a slow cooker largely depends on their size and whether they are whole or chopped. On average:

• Whole Sweet Potatoes (medium-sized, About 6-8 Ounces Each)

  • Low setting: 6-8 hours
  • High setting: 3-4 hours

• Cubed Sweet Potatoes (1-inch Pieces)

  • Low setting: 3-4 hours
  • High setting: 1.5-2.5 hours

Factors such as the variety of sweet potato, the exact size, and even the model of slow cooker can slightly alter cooking times. It’s always a good idea to check for doneness earlier than expected, especially when cooking on high, to avoid overcooking.

How To Tell If It Is Done

Determining whether your sweet potatoes are fully cooked is simple if you know what to look for:

1. Tenderness: The most reliable method is using a fork or skewer. Insert it into the thickest part of the potato; if it slides in easily with no resistance, the sweet potato is done.
2. Texture: A properly cooked sweet potato will feel soft to the touch yet maintain its structure. Overcooked sweet potatoes can become mushy and waterlogged.
3. Skin: The skin should loosen slightly from the flesh, making it easy to peel or slice. If the skin is still tight and firm, it likely needs more cooking time.

Ingredients Needed

Cooking sweet potatoes in a slow cooker doesn’t require many ingredients, making it a simple and low-maintenance option. Basic ingredients include:

• Sweet potatoes (any variety, though orange-fleshed are sweeter, and purple ones offer a slightly nuttier flavor)

• Optional additions for enhanced flavor:

  • Butter or coconut oil
  • Brown sugar, maple syrup, or honey
  • Cinnamon, nutmeg, or allspice
  • Salt and pepper
  • Water or apple juice (for moisture if desired)

The beauty of slow cooking is that even without any added fats or sugars, sweet potatoes develop a naturally rich flavor.

How To Cook Sweet Potato In Slow Cooker

1. Prepare the Sweet Potatoes: Wash thoroughly to remove dirt and debris. For whole potatoes, leave the skin on; for cubed potatoes, peel if desired and cut into uniform pieces.
2. Add Moisture (Optional): For extra moist results, add 1/4-1/2 cup of water, broth, or apple juice to the slow cooker.
3. Seasoning: Lightly brush or drizzle with butter, oil, or spices if you prefer a more flavorful outcome.
4. Arrange in Slow Cooker: Place the sweet potatoes directly into the slow cooker in a single layer if possible to ensure even cooking.
5. Cook: Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours for whole potatoes. Cubed potatoes will cook faster, typically 3-4 hours on low or 1.5-2.5 hours on high.
6. Check for Doneness: Test using a fork. If tender, they’re ready; if not, continue cooking in 15-30 minute increments.
7. Serve: Slice, mash, or leave whole. Enjoy as a side dish, in soups, or as a filling for bowls and wraps.

When Things Go Wrong

Even a foolproof method like slow cooking can occasionally produce less-than-perfect results:

• Sweet potatoes are undercooked: Likely the potatoes were too large or crowded in the slow cooker. Simply cook longer, checking every 15-30 minutes.
• Sweet potatoes are mushy: Overcooking is usually the culprit. Reduce the cooking time or switch to the low setting for future batches.
• Bitter or uneven flavor: This can happen if you didn’t wash the sweet potatoes properly or if seasoning wasn’t distributed evenly.

A good tip is to always slightly undercook if you plan to reheat or use the sweet potatoes in another dish, as slow reheating can bring them to perfection without turning mushy.

Expert Tips

• Uniform size: Whether cooking whole or cubed, try to make all sweet potatoes roughly the same size for even cooking.
• Layering: Avoid stacking sweet potatoes too tightly. If necessary, rotate halfway through cooking.
• Flavor infusion: For deeper flavor, pierce whole potatoes and drizzle with a little maple syrup, butter, or oil before slow cooking.
• Peeling after cooking: For mashed sweet potatoes, leaving the skin on during slow cooking makes it easier to scoop out the flesh afterward.
• Line the slow cooker: Use a slow cooker liner for easier cleanup, especially if adding sugar or syrup, which can caramelize and stick.

Can I Do This Without A Slow Cooker?

Yes! If a slow cooker isn’t available, similar results can be achieved using:

• Oven baking: Wrap sweet potatoes in foil and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 45-60 minutes, depending on size.
• Microwave: Pierce whole potatoes and microwave on high for 5-12 minutes, turning halfway. This is much faster but can result in slightly different texture-less caramelized and more moist.
• Stovetop steaming: Cube potatoes and steam for 20-30 minutes until tender. While convenient, this method lacks the slow-cooked sweetness.

Reheating Leftovers In Slow Cooker

Reheating sweet potatoes in a slow cooker is simple and preserves texture:

1. Place leftover sweet potatoes in the slow cooker.
2. Add a splash of water or butter to prevent drying.
3. Cover and heat on low for 1-2 hours, or until warmed through.
4. Stir occasionally for even heating, especially for mashed or cubed potatoes.

This method ensures they remain tender without overcooking, making meal prep and batch cooking effortless.

FAQs

How Long Does It Take To Cook Sweet Potatoes In A Slow Cooker?

Cooking sweet potatoes in a slow cooker generally takes 4 to 6 hours on high or 6 to 8 hours on low, depending on their size and quantity. Larger sweet potatoes may require more time, so check for tenderness with a fork before serving.

Do I Need To Peel Sweet Potatoes Before Cooking Them In A Slow Cooker?

Peeling is optional. You can cook sweet potatoes with the skin on, which helps retain nutrients and flavor. After cooking, the skin can be easily removed if desired.

Should I Add Water Or Any Liquid When Cooking Sweet Potatoes In A Slow Cooker?

Adding liquid is not strictly necessary because sweet potatoes release moisture during cooking. However, adding 1/4 to 1/2 cup of water or broth can help prevent sticking and create a slightly softer texture.

Can I Cook Frozen Sweet Potatoes In A Slow Cooker?

Yes, but frozen sweet potatoes will take longer to cook, typically 6 to 8 hours on low. It is recommended to thaw them slightly before placing them in the slow cooker for more even cooking.

How Can I Tell When Sweet Potatoes Are Fully Cooked In A Slow Cooker?

Sweet potatoes are fully cooked when they are soft and a fork easily pierces through the center. Larger sweet potatoes may require testing in several spots to ensure even cooking.

Can I Cook Sweet Potato Chunks Instead Of Whole Sweet Potatoes?

Yes, cutting sweet potatoes into uniform chunks reduces cooking time and ensures more even cooking. Chunks usually take 3 to 4 hours on high or 5 to 6 hours on low.

Can I Season Sweet Potatoes Before Cooking Them In A Slow Cooker?

Absolutely. You can add spices, herbs, salt, pepper, or a drizzle of olive oil before cooking. Slow cooking allows the seasonings to infuse deeply into the sweet potatoes.

Is It Possible To Overcook Sweet Potatoes In A Slow Cooker?

Yes, overcooking can make sweet potatoes mushy and break apart. To avoid this, monitor cooking times and check doneness periodically, especially if using the high heat setting.

Can I Cook Other Vegetables With Sweet Potatoes In The Slow Cooker?

Yes, you can combine sweet potatoes with other root vegetables like carrots, parsnips, or potatoes. Keep in mind that cooking times may vary, so cut vegetables to similar sizes for even cooking.

How Should I Store Cooked Sweet Potatoes From The Slow Cooker?

Once cooked, allow sweet potatoes to cool slightly, then store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days. They can also be frozen for longer storage, up to 2-3 months.