Buttery, caramel-rich, autumn-spiced perfection
This 30-minute crock-pot sweet potato mash is the ultimate holiday solution—creamy, spiced, and ready when you are. No oven, no stress, just velvety comfort.
When time is tight but your holiday table needs a showstopper, this recipe delivers. The slow cooker infuses sweet potatoes with butter, cinnamon, and nutmeg while preserving their natural sweetness. Perfect for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any cozy dinner.
The magic lies in the technique: pre-cooked potatoes melt into silken consistency in the crock-pot, while aromatic spices bloom in the warm environment. The result? A side dish that feels indulgent yet requires minimal effort.
This recipe scales beautifully for large crowds. Double or triple the ingredients and let the slow cooker work its magic while you focus on other holiday preparations.
For best results, use a 6-quart crock-pot and keep the lid on during cooking. The gentle heat ensures even cooking without overworking your appliance.
Why This Recipe Works
Effortless Holiday Prep
Cook while you prep other dishes—no need to monitor
Budget-Friendly
Sweet potatoes and pantry spices keep costs low
Scales Perfectly
Adjust quantities for any crowd size
Autumn Flavor
Cinnamon and nutmeg add festive warmth
Crock-Pot Sweet Potato Mash
Velvety, spiced comfort in 30 minutes
🛒 Ingredients
- - 4 lbs sweet potatoes
- - 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- - 1/2 cup milk (whole or half-and-half)
- - 1 tbsp brown sugar
- - 1 tsp cinnamon
- - 1/2 tsp nutmeg
- - 1/4 tsp salt
- - 1/4 tsp black pepper
👨🍳 Instructions
Prep Potatoes: Wash and cube sweet potatoes into 1-inch pieces. Boil for 10 minutes until tender.
💡 Drain and let cool slightly before adding to crock-pot
Combine Ingredients: In crock-pot, mix butter, milk, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Add cooked potatoes.
💡 Ensure potatoes are fully submerged in liquid
Cook: Cover and cook on high for 30 minutes.
💡 Avoid lifting lid to maintain even cooking
Puree: Use an immersion blender to create smooth consistency.
💡 Add more milk if desired for creamier texture
Nutrition (per serving):
Ingredient Notes & Substitutions
Sweet Potatoes
Use orange-fleshed varieties for best sweetness. Sub: Yukon gold potatoes for a different flavor profile.
Substitutions: Russet potatoes (less sweet), but adjust spices
Butter
Adds rich, creamy texture. Sub: Olive oil for vegan option.
Substitutions: Coconut oil (nutty flavor), vegan butter
Milk
Creates smooth consistency. Sub: Non-dairy milk (almond, oat) for lactose-free.
Substitutions: Evaporated milk (thicker), heavy cream
Cinnamon
Adds warm, spiced depth. Sub: Ground cloves (use 1/4 tsp).
Substitutions: Cinnamon sticks (infuse then remove), nutmeg-only version
Pro Tips for Perfect Sweet Potato Mash
Flavor Boosters
Add 1/2 tsp maple extract or 1/4 tsp vanilla for extra sweetness.
Cooking Hack
Pre-boil potatoes ensures even cooking in the slow cooker.
Texture Tip
Use an immersion blender instead of a potato masher for ultra-smooth results.
Storage Tip
Cool completely before refrigerating to prevent bacterial growth.
Variations & Customizations
Spicy Maple Version
Add 1/2 tsp maple syrup and 1/4 tsp cayenne for a sweet-hot kick.
Cheesy Comfort
Mix in 1/2 cup shredded cheddar or parmesan for extra richness.
Herb Infusion
Stir in 1 tbsp chopped fresh thyme or rosemary after blending.
Garnish Options
Top with toasted pecans, crumbled goat cheese, or a cinnamon-sugar sprinkle.
Serving Suggestions & Pairings
🍽️ Best Served With:
- Roasted turkey with herb gravy
- Herb-crusted ham
- Stuffed acorn squash
🍷 Drink Pairings:
Caramel apple cider, spiced wine, or a hoppy IPA.
Make-Ahead Instructions & Storage
Make-Ahead Tips
Prepare up to 24 hours ahead. Reheat gently before serving.
Refrigerator Storage
Store in airtight container for up to 5 days.
Freezer Storage
Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in fridge.
Reheating Instructions
Stir in 1-2 tbsp milk before warming on low heat.
Troubleshooting & Common Questions
Q: Mash is too dry
A: Add more milk or butter and blend again. Check if potatoes were properly cooked.
Q: Spices are too strong
A: Reduce spices by half next time. You can dilute with extra milk.
Q: Can I use a regular pot?
A: Yes, cook on stovetop for 15-20 minutes instead of slow cooker.
Q: How to make it vegan?
A: Use coconut oil and non-dairy milk. Add maple syrup for sweetness.
Final Thoughts
This crock-pot sweet potato mash is your holiday side dish hero. It combines convenience with luxury, delivering restaurant-quality results with minimal effort.
Whether you're hosting a Thanksgiving feast or craving autumn flavors, this recipe will elevate your table. The spiced aroma alone will make your home smell like a cozy kitchen. Try the variations to keep things exciting—your guests will never guess how easy it was to make!
