Airfryer Sweet Potato Casserole

Name: Airfryer Sweet Potato Casserole
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed; 2 tablespoons unsalted butter; 1/4 cup brown sugar; 1 teaspoon cinnamon; 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup milk; 1/2 cup pecans, chopped; 1/4 cup brown sugar; 1/4 cup mini marshmallows (optional); 1 tablespoon melted butter

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I absolutely love making this Airfryer Sweet Potato Casserole. It's the perfect comfort food packed with warm spices and a decadent topping that will please everyone at the table. The air fryer makes it super easy, yielding sweet, creamy potatoes with a crunchy, caramelized topping without all the fuss of traditional baking. In just about 30 minutes, I can whip up this delightful dish, making it ideal for family dinners or holiday gatherings. You won't believe how good this easy recipe is!

Created by

Anna

Last updated on 2026-02-07T17:42:27.602Z

During my first attempt at this Airfryer Sweet Potato Casserole, I was surprised at how quickly it came together. The air fryer not only speeds up the cooking process but also gives the sweet potatoes that perfect crispy edge while keeping the insides beautifully creamy. I used a blend of spices that really brings out the sweetness, and finding that perfect balance was a delicious revelation!

One tip I learned is to mash the sweet potatoes while they are still warm for a smoother texture. It’s a game changer! If you want to elevate this dish, consider adding a sprinkle of toasted pecans or mini marshmallows on top toward the end of cooking for an extra layer of flavor. You’ll love how easy and flavorful this casserole is!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Incredibly easy and quick to prepare in the air fryer
Rich, sweet flavor with a crunchy topping
Perfect dish for holidays and family gatherings

Mastering the Sweet Potato Base

The sweet potato base of this casserole is where the magic begins. When choosing sweet potatoes, opt for larger ones; they tend to be sweeter and creamier. After boiling for about 15 minutes, check for tenderness by piercing them with a fork. They should fall apart easily without any resistance. Overcooking can lead to waterlogged potatoes, so keep an eye on them to ensure the perfect texture.

The combination of brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg is essential in creating a well-rounded flavor profile. The brown sugar adds a deep sweetness while the spices introduce warmth. For a richer taste, consider adding a pinch of ginger or cloves. If you prefer a less sweet dish, feel free to reduce the brown sugar to 2 tablespoons while keeping the other spices intact. This will allow the natural sweetness of the sweet potatoes to shine through.

Creating the Perfect Topping

The pecan topping is what takes this casserole from good to spectacular. Chopping the pecans ensures that they distribute evenly and give a delightful crunch with every bite. If you're out of pecans, walnuts or even crushed graham crackers can serve as excellent alternatives. Just adjust the quantity based on your preference—the goal is to achieve that perfect balance between soft sweet potatoes and a satisfying, crispy topping.

Melted butter is crucial for binding the topping ingredients and helping them caramelize in the air fryer. Make sure it's fully melted, as this will create a glossy mixture that clumps together nicely. Spread the topping evenly over the sweet potato base, but don’t be afraid to create a little height—this will ensure some areas get extra crispy while retaining a chewy texture in others.

Ingredients

For the Sweet Potato Base

2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
1/4 cup brown sugar
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup milk

For the Topping

1/2 cup pecans, chopped
1/4 cup brown sugar
1/4 cup mini marshmallows (optional)
1 tablespoon melted butter

Instructions

Prepare the Sweet Potatoes

Place the cubed sweet potatoes in a pot of boiling water and cook for about 15 minutes, or until tender. Drain and return to the pot.

Mash the Sweet Potatoes

Add the butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and milk to the cooked sweet potatoes. Mash until smooth and smooth to your desired consistency.

Prepare the Topping

In a separate bowl, mix together the chopped pecans, brown sugar, and melted butter until combined.

Assemble the Casserole

Spread the mashed sweet potato mixture in the bottom of the air fryer basket. Evenly sprinkle the pecan topping over the top.

Cook in the Air Fryer

Set the air fryer to 360°F (180°C) and cook for 10-12 minutes until the topping is golden and crispy.

Pro Tips

For extra creaminess, try adding a splash of vanilla extract to the sweet potato mixture.

Serving Suggestions

This Airfryer Sweet Potato Casserole pairs beautifully with roasted meats or as a hearty side dish for holiday feasts. It's not just for Thanksgiving; the cozy flavors make it ideal for winter dinners, potlucks, or simply when you want a comforting meal at home. I love to serve it alongside a fresh salad to balance the richness of the casserole.

If you're looking to elevate your serving presentation, try garnishing with additional chopped pecans or a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley. A dash of maple syrup drizzled over the top before serving can also add an extra layer of flavor and a sophisticated touch.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

One of the best things about this casserole is its make-ahead potential. You can prepare the sweet potato base and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days before cooking. Just cover it tightly to prevent it from drying out. When ready to cook, allow it to come to room temperature before assembling the topping and air frying to ensure even heating.

Leftover casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in the air fryer for about 5-8 minutes at 350°F (175°C) to regain its crispy topping. If freezing, divide the casserole into portions, ensuring they're well-wrapped. You can freeze it for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating, giving you a quick and easy meal option.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of potatoes?

Yes, you can substitute regular potatoes, but the flavor will differ. Sweet potatoes are recommended for the best results.

→ Is this dish vegan-friendly?

You can make it vegan by substituting the butter with a plant-based alternative and using almond or oat milk.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store leftover casserole in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer or microwave.

→ Can I prepare this ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the sweet potato mixture in advance and store it in the fridge. Just assemble and air fry when ready to serve.