Crock Pot Sweet Potatoes
I love having mashed sweet potatoes on hand to use as sweet potato baby food (when needed!) and as a simple side dish for family meals. This sweet and creamy version is made with such a simple method in the slow cooker and makes the best mashed sweet potatoes every single time. I honestly don’t bake sweet potatoes much anymore now that I know how foolproof the crock pot method is. I love this recipe because the sweet potatoes are so creamy and smooth that they really don’t need any added ingredients. And they are super moist and are unlikely to dry out while cooking as they sometimes can when baked in the oven. )Then, if you happen to have leftovers, you can use them in my Sweet Potato Muffins, Sweet Potato Mac and Cheese, Sweet Potato Quesadillas, Sweet Potato Baby Cake, Sweet Potato Pancakes, and Hidden Veggie Mac and Cheese.)
Ingredients You Need
To make this recipe, you literally just need orange flesh sweet potatoes. They are sometimes called garnet yams depending on your store. That’s it! You can add butter or salt once they are done. but the base recipe just requires the potatoes. Sign up for our email updates to get tips and ideas sent to your inbox.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Here’s a look at the easy process involved in making this recipe so you know what to expect from the process. Scroll down to the bottom of the post for the full information. TIP: You can of course simply serve these like you would baked potatoes and skip the mashing part.
Serving Suggestions
This sweet potato recipe pairs well with so many other foods. It’s a great side with Yogurt Chicken or Fish Sticks, or as a stand alone baby meal. I also love them in Burrito Bowls with black beans—there’s something about the Mexican flavors that pairs well with the sweet potato flavor. And I love them alongside scrambled eggs! You can also spread them on toast for a baby or a toddler, add to a Sweet Potato Smoothie, or mix with plain whole milk yogurt to make a quick Sweet Potato Pudding. You can also use them with many other purees to make easy Baby Food Combinations. (A reusable pouch would be a great way to serve it that way.)
How to Store
Once cooled or mostly cooled, store them in an airtight container for 3-5 days in the fridge or up to 3 months in the freezer. Thaw overnight in the fridge.
Best Tips for Success
Smaller sweet potatoes tend to fit better in the crockpot. You want them to be in one layer, not stacked on top of each other, to ensure even cooking. Let them cool at least slightly before you attempt to peel them to spare your fingers! Mash with a potato masher or even put them into a food processor for a more consistently smooth texture.
I’d love to know what you think if you make this recipe so please share feedback and a rating in the comments below!