Sweet Potato Mash
Creamy, fluffy sweet potatoes mashed with butter, brown sugar, and warm spices. This classic Southern side dish is the perfect blend of sweet and savory, a comforting addition to any holiday table or weeknight dinner.
For 4 servings
4 steps. 20 minutes total.
- 1
Step 1
- a.Prepare and Boil Potatoes
- b.Peel the sweet potatoes and cut them into uniform 1-inch cubes.
- c.Place the cubed potatoes in a large pot and add enough cold water to cover them by at least an inch. Add a generous pinch of salt to the water.
- d.Bring the pot to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to maintain a steady simmer.
- e.Cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are very tender and can be easily pierced with a fork.
- 2
Step 2
- a.Drain and Dry Potatoes
- b.Drain the potatoes thoroughly in a colander, shaking to remove excess water.
- c.Return the empty pot to the stove over low heat for about 30-60 seconds to evaporate any remaining moisture.
- d.Add the drained potatoes back to the dry, warm pot and let them sit for a minute to steam off any final moisture. This step is key to avoiding watery mash.
- 3
Step 3
- a.Mash and Combine Ingredients
- b.Using a potato masher, begin mashing the potatoes directly in the pot to your desired consistency.
- c.Add the cubed butter, warmed milk, packed light brown sugar, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, salt, and black pepper.
- d.Continue to mash and stir until the butter is fully melted and all ingredients are well-combined, creating a smooth and creamy texture. Avoid over-mixing.
- 4
Step 4
- a.Taste and Serve
- b.Taste the mash and adjust seasonings if necessary. You may want more salt to balance the sweetness or a bit more cinnamon for warmth.
- c.Serve immediately while warm, garnished with a pat of butter or toasted pecans if desired.
What to keep in mind.
5 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For a deeper, more caramelized flavor, roast the sweet potatoes instead of boiling them. Pierce them with a fork, bake at 400°F (200°C) for 45-60 minutes, then scoop the flesh out.
- 2Don't overwork the potatoes, especially if using a mixer, as they can become gummy.
- 3Ensure you drain the potatoes very well. Returning them to the hot, dry pot for a minute helps steam off excess water, which is crucial for a fluffy texture.
- 4For an extra rich and decadent mash, substitute the whole milk with heavy cream or half-and-half.
- 5Warming the milk before adding it to the potatoes helps it incorporate more easily and keeps the mash hot.
Adapt it for your goals.
Flavor
Savory Sweet Potato Mash: Omit the brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Instead, mash in 3-4 cloves of roasted garlic, 1 tablespoon of fresh chopped chives or thyme, and use heavy cream for extra richness.
ToppingTopping
Pecan Streusel Topping: Transfer the finished mash to a baking dish. Top with a mixture of 1/2 cup chopped pecans, 1/4 cup brown sugar, 1/4 cup flour, and 3 tbsp melted butter. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes until golden.
FlavorFlavor
Spicy Kick: Add 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper or a pinch of chipotle powder along with the other spices for a subtle smoky heat that balances the sweetness.
FlavorFlavor
Maple-Pecan Mash: Replace the brown sugar with an equal amount of pure maple syrup and stir in 1/2 cup of toasted, chopped pecans directly into the mash before serving.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Vitamin A
Sweet potatoes are one of the best natural sources of beta-carotene, which the body converts into Vitamin A. This vitamin is crucial for vision health, immune function, and cell growth.
Good Source of Fiber
The fiber in sweet potatoes aids in digestion and promotes a healthy gut microbiome. It also helps with satiety, keeping you feeling full and satisfied.
Provides Antioxidants
Sweet potatoes contain various antioxidants, like anthocyanins in purple varieties, which help protect your body from free radical damage and may reduce the risk of chronic diseases.
Supports Immune Health
The high concentration of both Vitamin A and Vitamin C in sweet potatoes plays a vital role in strengthening the immune system and helping the body fight off infections.
Frequently asked questions
A typical serving of about one cup contains approximately 350-400 calories, primarily depending on the exact amounts of butter and brown sugar used in the recipe.