Description
This Savory Mashed Sweet Potatoes recipe offers a rich and creamy side dish perfect for any meal. Made with tender sweet potatoes, butter, and warm milk, and enhanced with garlic, herbs, and green onions, it delivers a balanced mix of sweetness and savory flavors that complement a wide variety of main courses.
Ingredients
Scale
Sweet Potatoes
- 3 pounds sweet potatoes (about 4-5 medium), peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes
Dairy & Liquids
- 3-4 tablespoons butter, at room temperature
- 1/2 cup milk, warmed (plus more as needed if too thick)
- 2 tablespoons sour cream (or cream cheese) (optional)
Seasonings & Herbs
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder (or 1-2 cloves minced garlic)
- 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 3 tablespoons green onions, chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon fresh thyme or rosemary, finely chopped (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Sweet Potatoes: Place the cubed sweet potatoes in a large pot and cover with salted water by about 1 inch. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer uncovered until the potatoes are fork-tender, about 10-15 minutes. Drain well and return them to the pot.
- Mash the Potatoes: Use a potato masher (or a fork) to mash the hot sweet potatoes until smooth and fluffy. For extra silky results, you can use a hand mixer or immersion blender to break down any remaining lumps.
- Add Dairy and Mix: Add the butter and stir until fully melted and absorbed. Slowly pour in the milk, starting with ½ cup, and mix until creamy and smooth. Add more milk as needed if the consistency feels too thick. Optionally, mix in sour cream or cream cheese for extra tang and richness.
- Season and Fold in Herbs: Stir in garlic powder, salt, and pepper until evenly combined. Fold in green onions and thyme or rosemary if using.
- Serve: Transfer to a serving bowl and top with an extra pat of butter, a sprinkle of green onions, and freshly cracked black pepper.
Notes
- To keep the mashed sweet potatoes warm, cover the bowl with foil or a lid until ready to serve.
- For a smoother texture, use a hand mixer or immersion blender when mashing.
- You can substitute cream cheese for sour cream for a richer flavor.
- Adjust the seasoning to taste, especially the salt and pepper.
- Fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary are optional but add a wonderful aroma and depth of flavor.
