Thanksgiving time-saver: how to make sweet potato casserole in the air fryer in just minutes

As the leaves turn vibrant shades of gold and crimson, it’s time to embrace the flavors of fall. One quintessential dish that evokes cozy autumn evenings is sweet potato casserole. Traditionally baked in the oven, this classic can now be effortlessly made in your air fryer, creating a crispy crust and tender, flavorful interior.

Ingredients:

• 4 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1/4 cup melted butter
• 1/2 cup evaporated milk
• 1 large egg, beaten
• 1/2 cup chopped pecans (optional)
• 1/4 cup marshmallows (optional)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Sweet Potatoes: Peel and cut the sweet potatoes into 1-inch cubes. Rinse them thoroughly and pat them dry.
2. Season the Sweet Potatoes: In a large bowl, combine the sweet potato cubes with brown sugar, granulated sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger. Stir well to coat evenly.
3. Melt the Butter: In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
4. Add the Wet Ingredients: Pour the melted butter, evaporated milk, and beaten egg into the bowl with the seasoned sweet potatoes. Stir until well combined.
5. Transfer to Air Fryer Basket: Line the air fryer basket with parchment paper. Spray the parchment paper with cooking spray to prevent sticking. Pour the sweet potato mixture into the prepared basket.
6. Air Fry: Set the air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes are tender and slightly browned. Shake the basket halfway through cooking to ensure even cooking.
7. Top with Pecans and Marshmallows (Optional): If desired, sprinkle chopped pecans and marshmallows over the sweet potato casserole. Air fry for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the marshmallows are melted and golden brown.
8. Serve: Let the sweet potato casserole cool slightly before serving. Enjoy it warm with a dollop of whipped cream or ice cream.

Tips:

• For a sweeter casserole, add more brown sugar to taste.
• If you don’t have evaporated milk, you can use regular milk.
• You can also add other spices to your liking, such as cloves or allspice.
• If your sweet potatoes are not cooked through after 20 minutes, continue air frying in 2-minute intervals until they are tender.
• For a crispier crust, spray the top of the casserole with cooking spray before air frying.

Sweet Potato Casserole Variations:

• Pumpkin Sweet Potato Casserole: Add 1 cup of canned pumpkin puree to the sweet potato mixture.
• Apple Sweet Potato Casserole: Stir in 1 cup of chopped apples to the casserole before air frying.
• Cranberry Sweet Potato Casserole: Add 1 cup of dried cranberries to the casserole for a festive touch.
• Pecan Pie Sweet Potato Casserole: Top the casserole with a pecan pie filling before air frying.
• Marshmallow Sweet Potato Casserole: Add a layer of marshmallows to the top of the casserole before air frying.

Benefits of Using an Air Fryer:

• Crispy Crust: The air fryer circulates hot air around the food, creating a crispy crust without the need for additional oil.
• Quick Cooking: Air fryers cook food more quickly than traditional ovens, making them a great choice for busy weeknights.
• Healthier Option: Air fryers use less oil than deep fryers, resulting in a healthier dish.
• Easy Cleanup: The air fryer basket is non-stick, making cleanup a breeze.

FAQ:

• Q: Can I use frozen sweet potatoes for this recipe?
• A: Yes, you can use frozen sweet potatoes. Thaw them completely before cutting them into cubes.
• Q: Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
• A: Yes, you can make the sweet potato casserole up to 2 days ahead of time. Store it in the refrigerator and reheat it in the air fryer before serving.
• Q: Can I use a different type of nut instead of pecans?
• A: Yes, you can use walnuts, almonds, or hazelnuts instead of pecans.