When it comes to holiday dishes, sweet potato casserole has always been one of my favorites. But let’s be real — sometimes the traditional way of baking can take forever. That’s where the air fryer comes to the rescue! With its ability to quickly cook and crisp ingredients, it transforms a classic casserole into a rich, caramelized dish in half the time. The creamy sweet potatoes, crunchy pecan topping, and hints of cinnamon make this casserole a star at any dinner table.
Whether you’re hosting a big family gathering or just craving something cozy, this air fryer sweet potato casserole is a game-changer. Not only does it come together quickly, but the air fryer creates the perfect balance of creamy and crunchy textures. Trust me, once you make it this way, you might never go back to the oven version!
What You Need To Make This Recipe
Sweet Potatoes: These are the star of the show! Their natural sweetness pairs perfectly with the spices and topping. Opt for medium-sized sweet potatoes as they cook evenly and are easy to mash.
Brown Sugar: This adds depth and a caramel-like flavor to the casserole. Use light or dark brown sugar depending on your preference for sweetness and richness.
Unsalted Butter: Butter brings a creamy texture and enhances the flavor of the sweet potatoes. Unsalted is best so you can control the salt in the recipe.
Cinnamon and Nutmeg: These warm spices add that classic holiday flavor. A pinch of nutmeg goes a long way in elevating the dish.
Vanilla Extract: Just a touch of vanilla brings a hint of sweetness and rounds out the flavors beautifully.
Eggs: These help bind the mashed sweet potatoes together, giving the casserole structure. Don’t skip them!
Pecans: The crunchy topping wouldn’t be the same without these. Toasted pecans bring a nutty flavor that contrasts perfectly with the soft sweet potatoes.
Flour and Butter (for the topping): Combined with brown sugar and pecans, this mixture creates the crispy, golden-brown topping we all love.
Ingredients List
- 4 medium sweet potatoes (about 2 lbs)
- ½ cup brown sugar
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
- ½ tsp ground cinnamon
- ¼ tsp ground nutmeg
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 cup pecans, chopped
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
- 2 tbsp brown sugar (for topping)
How to Make Air Fryer Sweet Potato Casserole
Step 1: Cook the Sweet Potatoes
Start by peeling and cutting the sweet potatoes into chunks. Place them in your air fryer basket and cook at 375°F for 15–20 minutes, or until they are tender and easily pierced with a fork.
Step 2: Mash the Potatoes
Transfer the cooked sweet potatoes to a mixing bowl. Add the brown sugar, melted butter, cinnamon, nutmeg, vanilla extract, and beaten eggs. Mash everything together until smooth and creamy.
Step 3: Prepare the Topping
In a separate bowl, mix the chopped pecans, flour, softened butter, and brown sugar. Stir until it forms a crumbly mixture.
Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
Spread the mashed sweet potato mixture evenly into a greased, air fryer-safe baking dish. Sprinkle the pecan topping evenly over the top.
Step 5: Cook in the Air Fryer
Place the dish into the air fryer and cook at 350°F for 10–12 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and crisp.
Step 6: Serve
Remove the casserole from the air fryer and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy it warm!
Tips for Making this Recipe
- Prep Ahead: You can make the sweet potato mash a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Just add the topping and cook when ready.
- Customize the Sweetness: Adjust the amount of brown sugar in the mash and topping based on your taste preference.
- Use a Smaller Dish: Make sure your baking dish fits into your air fryer. If it’s too large, divide the mixture into smaller portions and cook in batches.
- Add a Twist: For extra flavor, add a handful of mini marshmallows on top during the last 2 minutes of cooking.
- Toast the Pecans: If you want an even nuttier flavor, toast the pecans before mixing them into the topping.
FAQs
Can I use canned sweet potatoes?
Yes, canned sweet potatoes work well for this recipe. Just be sure to drain them thoroughly before mashing.
What can I use instead of pecans?
Walnuts are a great alternative, or you can skip the nuts entirely and use a crumb topping made with oats.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for 5–7 minutes.
Can I double this recipe?
Absolutely! If doubling, you’ll need to cook in batches unless you have a larger air fryer.
Can I freeze sweet potato casserole?
Yes, you can freeze the assembled casserole (without the topping) for up to 2 months. Add the topping and air fry when ready to serve.