Sweet potato casserole is one of those dishes that just makes it feel like Thanksgiving. It’s an iconic side dish, though there’s still a lot of debate among family members on whether you need it or not! This air fryer sweet potato casserole bakes up in just 15 minutes, so I say it’s a keeper!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This simple recipe uses mostly pantry ingredients to make a warm, comforting casserole that’s great for fall, winter, Thanksgiving, and other holiday meals!
Thanks to the air fryer, you can cut cooking time down to just 15 minutes! Plus, it leaves the oven open for roasting a turkey, ham, or any other dish you’re making.
You can adjust this casserole in a variety of different ways, making it sweet, savory, or somewhere in between. Whether you top it with classic marshmallow or some crunchy pecans, you can’t go wrong!
If you’re team sweet, make sure to check out my recipe for Air Fryer Candied Yams as well. They’re a nice alternative if you don’t want a casserole, while still satisfying your sweet tooth!
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Air Fryer Sweet Potato Casserole Ingredients
- 40-ounce can cut sweet potatoes (in water)
- ¼ cup butter, melted
- ¼ cup brown sugar
- 2 Tbsp maple syrup
- 2 Tbsp heavy cream
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
Topping:
- ½ cup chopped pecans
- 2 cups marshmallows (about 16 regular size)
Special Equipment Note
You’ll need an oven safe pan such as a casserole dish that fits in your air fryer’s basket or on the rack. I use two small casseroles because I have a Ninja Dual Zone, but one larger dish is fine if you have a single basket model.
Ingredient Tips and Substitutions
- You can also use canned sweet potatoes in syrup, but I’d omit or at least reduce the brown sugar in this case. Alternatively, swap in freshly cooked, mashed sweet potatoes (about 3 cups)
- The heavy cream can be swapped for evaporated milk or omitted entirely for a less creamy version
- I know that mini marshmallows are the classic, but I use the large ones simply because they don’t fly around as easily in the air fryer. If you do use minis, press them into the base so they hopefully stay put. You may also use marshmallow fluff as an alternative!
- Mix ins: Some optional mix-ins include raisins, dried cranberries, diced pineapple, or additional pecans mixed in with the sweet potatoes. These can offer variation in both texture and flavor
How to Make Sweet Potato Casserole in the Air Fryer
- Mash your sweet potatoes using a fork or potato masher
- Add all ingredients aside from the toppings to the potatoes and stir to combine
- Spread the sweet potato mixture into a greased casserole dish (or whatever similar dish you’re using) and place it into the air fryer
- Cook on the air fry setting for 12 minutes at 350°F
- Add the pecans and marshmallows to the top, then return to the air fryer for about 2-3 minutes, until the marshmallows are lightly brown and gooey
- Serve hot with your favorite entree!
What to Serve With Sweet Potato Casserole
- Roasted chicken
- Fried chicken
- Turkey
- Ham
- Pork chops
- Pulled pork
- Beef roast
- Meatloaf
- Salmon
- Mahi mahi
- Cod
- Brussels sprouts
- Collard greens
- Green beans
- Carrots
- Asparagus
- Green salad
- Tomato salad
- Fried okra
- Mac and cheese
- Corn casserole
- Deviled eggs
- Applesauce
There are a variety of great options to serve alongside sweet potato casserole, whether it’s a regular meal or Thanksgiving dinner!
Try this air fryer sweet potato casserole with my Air Fryer Cornish Hens, Air Fryer Smashed Brussels Sprouts, Air Fryer Ham Steaks, Air Fryer Green Bean Casserole, Air Fryer Corn Casserole, or some simple Microwave Applesauce!
Recipe FAQs
Can I Use Canned Sweet Potatoes for the Casserole?
Absolutely! Canned sweet potatoes are perfect for sweet potato casserole. Just drain and mash them and they are ready to use.
Alternatively, though, you may use freshly cooked, peeled, and mashed sweet potatoes instead. Canned just saves a lot of preparation time.
What Are Some Recommended Seasonings for Sweet Potato Casserole?
Traditionally, sweet potato casserole is seasoned with cinnamon, vanilla, and brown sugar.
However, you can add other spices, such as nutmeg, ginger, or allspice. Maple syrup or honey can add a different flavor element as well. Experiment to find your favorite combination!
Can I Prepare the Casserole Ahead of Time and Air Fry It Later?
Yes, assemble the casserole in advance, refrigerate for up to 24 hours, and air fry when ready to serve.
You can even measure out the topping ingredients ahead of time, but don’t add them to the top of the casserole until the end of the cooking process.
What Temperature and Time Settings Are Best for Air Frying Sweet Potato Casserole?
For sweet potato casserole, set your air fryer to 350°F (177°C). Cook for 10-12 minutes until it’s heated through.
Then, add your pecans and marshmallows and toast them, about 3 minutes additionally, for a total of about 15 minutes of cooking time.
How Can I Make Sweet Potato Casserole Dairy Free?
To make your sweet potato casserole dairy free, omit the cream and use a non-dairy butter alternative.
For a vegetarian option, omit the marshmallows and only add pecans to the top. Feel free to toss the pecans in a little additional brown sugar and butter for sweetness and caramelization.
Can I Add Marshmallows to the Sweet Potato Casserole in the Air Fryer?
Yes, you can add marshmallows to sweet potato casserole in the air fryer. However, the mini marshmallows tend to get blown off easily. Use larger size marshmallows, or a coating of marshmallow fluff for better results.
Also make sure to gently push the marshmallow into the sweet potato mixture, which helps to hold it in place.
Is It Possible to Make a Smaller Batch in the Air Fryer?
Yes, one of the great things about air fryer cooking is that it’s ideal for smaller batches. As written, this recipe should give you around 6 servings.
However, it can easily be doubled or halved for larger or smaller batches! Just use a smaller pan for a halved recipe, or cook in two batches if you’re doubling and can’t fit it in your air fryer all at once.
Recipe Pro Tips For the Best Sweet Potato Casserole
- I do not preheat my air fryer for this recipe. However, if you do, you can shave about 2 minutes off the base cooking time on average
- This recipe was made in a Ninja Dual Zone air fryer. Cooking times may vary slightly with different air fryers, and with different size pans. Adjust as needed, or to your personal preferences!
Storage and Reheating Tips
- Store leftovers wrapped in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. For long term storage, assemble, wrap, and freeze prior to baking for up to 3 months
- To reheat sweet potato casserole in the air fryer, use a small oven safe dish or a piece of foil to hold it your portion, and heat it for about 5 minutes at 325°F, or until warmed through. Exact time will vary based on the size of your piece
- Ninja Air Fryer Sweet Potato Fries
- How to Make Sweet Potato Chips in the Microwave
Final Thoughts
This sweet potato casserole is creamy, decadent, and a perfect fall casserole option. Whether you’re serving it up for dinner or as part of your Thanksgiving feast, it’s sure to be a hit!
Thanks to the air fryer, this classic side dish is ready in just 15 minutes of cooking time, plus it keeps the oven available for a larger roast (or whatever main course you’re working on).
Using canned sweet potatoes cuts the preparation time down even more, but you can always cook your own if you prefer. One thing I love about this dish is that you can make it in advance and stick it in the fridge, and just cook when you’re ready. So simple!
Pair it with your favorite vegetables, and don’t forget the Air Fryer Cornbread Dressing for another popular side option for Thanksgiving!
Katie’s tip
For more great options for your holiday meal, check out all of my amazing Air Fryer Thanksgiving Recipes for inspiration!
Easy Air Fryer Sweet Potato Casserole (With Marshmallows)
Equipment
- Casserole dish (or similar oven safe dish that fits in your air fryer)
Ingredients
- 40 Ounce can cut sweet potatoes (in water)
- ¼ Cup butter (melted)
- ¼ Cup brown sugar (unpacked)
- 2 Tbsp maple syrup
- 2 Tbsp heavy cream
- 1 Tsp vanilla extract
- 1 Tsp salt
- 1 Tsp cinnamon
- ½ Tsp black pepper
Topping
- ½ Cup chopped pecans
- 2 Cups marshmallows (about 16 regular size)
Instructions
- Mash your sweet potatoes using a fork or potato masher40 Ounce can cut sweet potatoes
- Add all ingredients aside from the toppings to the potatoes and stir to combine¼ Cup butter, ¼ Cup brown sugar, 2 Tbsp maple syrup, 2 Tbsp heavy cream, 1 Tsp vanilla extract, 1 Tsp salt, 1 Tsp cinnamon, ½ Tsp black pepper
- Spread the sweet potato mixture into a greased casserole dish (or whatever similar dish you’re using) and place it into the air fryer
- Cook on the air fry setting for 12 minutes at 350°F
- Add the pecans and marshmallows to the top, then return to the air fryer for about 2-3 minutes, until the pecans are toasted and the marshmallows are gooey½ Cup chopped pecans, 2 Cups marshmallows
- Serve hot with your favorite entrée!
Notes
- You can also use canned sweet potatoes in syrup, but I’d omit or at least reduce the brown sugar in this case. Alternatively, swap in about 3 cups of freshly cooked, mashed sweet potatoes
- The heavy cream can be swapped for evaporated milk or omitted entirely for a less creamy version
- I know that mini marshmallows are the classic, but I use the large ones simply because they don’t fly around as easily in the air fryer. If you do use minis, press them into the base so they hopefully stay put. You may also use marshmallow fluff as an alternative!
- I do not preheat my air fryer for this recipe. However, if you do, you can shave about 2 minutes off the base cooking time on average
- This recipe was made in a Ninja Dual Zone air fryer. Cooking times may vary slightly with different air fryers, and with different size pans. Adjust as needed!
- Store leftover sweet potato casserole wrapped in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. For long term storage, assemble, wrap, and freeze prior to baking for up to 3 months
- To reheat, place a portion in the air fryer (use a small oven safe dish or a piece of foil to hold it) for about 5 minutes at 325°F, or until warmed through. Exact time will vary based on the size of your piece
- Exact nutritional values will vary based on brand and flavor of ingredients, any additions or swaps, and actual quantity consumed, so please consider this a guideline only
Nutrition
