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mashed sweet potatoes recipe

The Best Mashed Sweet Potatoes

Mashed potatoes will always be a classic, but when I want something a little sweeter and a lot more colorful, mashed sweet potatoes are my go-to. They’re creamy, naturally sweet, and perfect for pairing with just about anything.
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Servings: 3 servings
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • 3 pounds sweet potatoes about 4 large
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter or olive oil for a lighter option
  • ½ cup milk whole milk or cream for extra richness
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon cinnamon optional, adds warmth
  • Drizzle of maple syrup or honey optional, for extra sweetness

Method
 

Cook the Sweet Potatoes
  1. You’ve got a couple of options here, and both work beautifully:
  2. Boiling: Peel the sweet potatoes and cut them into chunks. Place them in a large pot of salted water, bring to a boil, and cook for 15–20 minutes, or until fork-tender.
  3. Roasting: For extra flavor, roast the sweet potatoes whole at 400°F for about 45–50 minutes until soft. Scoop the flesh out and mash—it gives a deeper, caramelized flavor.
  4. Personally, I lean toward roasting when I have time—it makes the mash taste almost like dessert.
Mash Them Up
  1. Drain the boiled potatoes (if you used that method) and return them to the pot. Add the butter, milk, salt, and pepper.
  2. Use a potato masher or hand mixer to mash until smooth. For a chunkier, rustic texture, stick with a masher. For silky-smooth potatoes, a hand mixer works wonders.
Add a Little Extra Love
  1. Here’s where you can play. Stir in a pinch of cinnamon for warmth, or drizzle a bit of maple syrup for sweetness. If you’re feeling savory, skip the cinnamon and add roasted garlic instead—it makes them taste luxurious.
Serve Warm and Cozy
  1. Spoon the mashed sweet potatoes into a serving bowl, top with a pat of butter, and bring them straight to the table. They’re comforting, colorful, and guaranteed to disappear fast.