A simple recipe for smooth, creamy mashed sweet potatoes perfect for holiday meals or a comforting side dish.
Author:Alex Rwanda
Prep Time:15 min
Cook Time:25 min
Total Time:40 min
Yield:6 servings
Category:Side Dish
Method:Boiling
Cuisine:American
Diet:Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
3 lbs sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch chunks
1/2 cup heavy cream
4 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1 tablespoon maple syrup (optional, for sweeter flavor)
Instructions
Place the sweet potato chunks in a large pot and cover them with cold water. Add a pinch of salt to the water.
Bring the water to a boil over high heat, then reduce heat to maintain a steady simmer. Cook for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the potatoes are very tender when pierced with a fork.
Drain the sweet potatoes completely in a colander. Let them sit for 5 minutes to allow excess moisture to evaporate.
Return the drained potatoes to the hot, empty pot. Mash them roughly with a potato masher.
Add the heavy cream, butter, salt, and pepper. If you prefer a sweeter mash, add the maple syrup now.
Continue to mash and stir until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Do not overmix.
Taste and adjust seasoning if needed before serving hot.
Notes
For the creamiest texture, use a potato ricer or food mill after draining.
If you want a savory mash, omit the maple syrup and add 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder or a pinch of nutmeg.
To make this ahead, prepare up to the mashing stage, then reheat gently with extra cream before serving.