Mashed Sweet Potatoes

Mashed Sweet Potatoes are a creamy, naturally sweet side dish that’s simple yet comforting. With their vibrant color and buttery texture, they’re a delicious twist on traditional mashed potatoes and pair perfectly with everything from weeknight dinners to holiday feasts.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

You’ll love Mashed Sweet Potatoes because they’re easy to make, naturally nutritious, and full of rich, cozy flavor. They’re smooth, velvety, and can be seasoned sweet or savory — so they work just as well next to roasted turkey and gravy as they do alongside grilled chicken or veggies.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Sweet potatoes
• Butter
• Milk, cream, or half-and-half
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Optional: cinnamon, nutmeg, maple syrup, or brown sugar for a sweet twist; garlic or herbs for savory

Directions

this recipe

1. Peel and cut sweet potatoes into large chunks.
2. Place in a large pot and cover with cold water. Add a generous pinch of salt.
3. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce to a simmer and cook for about 15-20 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes are very tender.
4. Drain well and return sweet potatoes to the warm pot.
5. Add butter, a splash of milk or cream, salt, and pepper. Mash with a potato masher until smooth and fluffy.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning. Stir in cinnamon, nutmeg, or a drizzle of maple syrup if you’d like them sweeter.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 4-6 servings. Prep time is 10 minutes, and cooking time is 15-20 minutes.

Variations

• Add roasted garlic for a savory, deeper flavor.
• Stir in cream cheese for extra creaminess.
• Drizzle with maple syrup and top with chopped pecans for a holiday-style dish.
• Use coconut milk instead of dairy for a dairy-free version.
• Sprinkle with fresh herbs like thyme or chives for a savory finish.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover Mashed Sweet Potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently in a saucepan over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk to loosen them if needed. You can also freeze them for up to 2 months — thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat before serving.

FAQs

Are mashed sweet potatoes healthy?

Yes! Sweet potatoes are high in fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants.

Can I make them ahead of time?

Absolutely — they reheat beautifully. Just store covered in the fridge.

How do I make them sweeter?

Add a drizzle of maple syrup, brown sugar, or a sprinkle of cinnamon.

Can I make them savory?

Yes — skip the sweeteners and add garlic, herbs, or a touch of parmesan.

Do I have to peel sweet potatoes?

Peeling gives a smoother mash, but you can leave the skin on for extra texture and nutrients.

What’s the best way to mash them?

A potato masher works well, or use a hand mixer for ultra-smooth potatoes.

Can I use canned sweet potatoes?

Fresh is best, but drained canned sweet potatoes will work in a pinch.

Can I make them dairy-free?

Yes — use vegan butter and non-dairy milk like almond or coconut.

How do I keep mashed sweet potatoes from getting watery?

Drain them well and mash in a warm pot to help evaporate excess moisture.

What goes well with mashed sweet potatoes?

They’re delicious with turkey, ham, chicken, pork chops, or roasted veggies.

Conclusion

Mashed Sweet Potatoes are an easy, flavorful side dish that adds a splash of color and natural sweetness to your table. Whether you make them sweet or savory, they’re sure to be a hit with everyone — simple, satisfying, and perfect for any occasion!

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