Mashed sweet potatoes are creamy, tasty, and naturally sweet. With just a few ingredients, you can whip up a colorful side dish that brightens up any meal!
I always love the warm, cozy vibe they bring to my dinner table. Plus, they’re super easy to make—just mash them up with a bit of butter and seasoning, and you’re good to go!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Sweet Potatoes: These are the star of the dish! Choose firm and evenly colored sweet potatoes for the best results. If you can’t find them, you can substitute with regular potatoes, but keep in mind that the flavor will be different.
Butter: Unsalted butter works best so you can control the saltiness. If you need a dairy-free option, olive oil or coconut oil can provide a different but delicious flavor.
Milk: Regular milk adds creaminess, but feel free to use almond milk or coconut milk for a dairy-free version. Heavy cream can make it even richer, if that’s what you’re after.
Seasonings: I’m a fan of just salt and pepper, but you might also consider adding a bit of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm flavor twist.
How Do You Make Mashed Sweet Potatoes Smooth and Creamy?
The key to a great mashed sweet potato lies in how you prepare and mash them. Here’s how to get that perfect texture:
- Start by cutting the sweet potatoes into uniform pieces so they cook evenly. This helps prevent any hard bits.
- Add the potatoes to cold water before boiling. This helps them cook more evenly from the inside out.
- Once they’re fork-tender, drain thoroughly to avoid watery mash. Returning them to the pot will also help release some steam.
- Add butter and milk while they’re still hot to help with blending. This will enhance the creaminess.
- Using a potato masher gives you more control over the texture. Mash until smooth but avoid over-mashing to keep them fluffy.
By following these tips, you’ll make a delicious side dish that’ll impress everyone at your table!
How to Make Mashed Sweet Potatoes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Mashed Sweet Potatoes:
- 2 pounds sweet potatoes (about 3 large), peeled and cut into chunks
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup milk (or heavy cream for a richer mash)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, freshly ground
- Optional: 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme or fresh thyme leaves (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 30 minutes total. You’ll spend around 10 minutes prepping the ingredients and then another 20 minutes cooking and mashing. In no time, you’ll have a delicious side dish ready to serve!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Sweet Potatoes:
Start by placing your peeled and chopped sweet potatoes in a large pot. Cover them with cold water. This helps them cook evenly. Turn the heat to high and bring the water to a boil.
2. Cook Until Tender:
Once the water is boiling, reduce the heat to medium. Let the sweet potatoes simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until they’re very tender. You can test their doneness by poking them with a fork; they should be soft.
3. Drain and Return:
Carefully drain the sweet potatoes and return them to the pot or transfer them to a large mixing bowl. This extra step helps to evaporate any excess moisture.
4. Add Butter and Milk:
Add the unsalted butter and milk (or heavy cream) to the sweet potatoes. Sprinkle in the salt and pepper as well. This is where the magic happens!
5. Mash Until Smooth:
Using a potato masher or a fork, mash the sweet potatoes until they reach your desired smoothness and creaminess. If you prefer them a little creamier, feel free to add a bit more milk.
6. Taste and Adjust:
Give your mashed sweet potatoes a taste and see if they need a little extra salt or pepper. Adjust to your liking.
7. Serve and Garnish:
Transfer your beautiful mashed sweet potatoes to a serving bowl. For a lovely touch, dot the top with a small pat of butter. If you like, add a sprinkle of thyme leaves for a nice garnish.
8. Enjoy!
Serve your mashed sweet potatoes warm, and enjoy their rich, creamy texture and natural sweetness. They’re the perfect side dish for any meal!
Can I Use Other Types of Potatoes?
Yes, but keep in mind that using regular potatoes will yield a different flavor and texture. Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes can be substituted, but sweet potatoes are what give this dish its unique sweetness!
How Can I Make This Recipe Vegan?
To make vegan mashed sweet potatoes, simply substitute the unsalted butter with a plant-based butter and use almond milk or coconut milk instead of regular milk. This will keep the dish creamy and delicious without any animal products!
What Can I Serve with Mashed Sweet Potatoes?
Mashed sweet potatoes pair wonderfully with roasted meats, grilled chicken, or even as a side to vegetarian dishes. They can also complement holiday meals, especially alongside turkey or ham!
How Do I Store Leftover Mashed Sweet Potatoes?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk to loosen them up if needed.