When it comes to classic, comforting side dishes, these mashed sweet potatoes are hard to beat. Naturally sweet, nutrient-rich, and so easy to prepare, they’re the perfect addition to weeknight dinners or holiday feasts alike.
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This recipe keeps things simple, real, and delicious—no marshmallows or overly sweet extras, just whole-food goodness with a touch of natural flavor.
If you’re looking for a tried-and-true sweet potato mash recipe, you’re in the right place!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Naturally sweet – Sweet potatoes have an earthy, caramel-like sweetness that shines through without adding refined sugar.
- Real-food ingredients – Made with just sweet potatoes, a bit of butter (or coconut oil), maple syrup, cinnamon, and chopped nuts.
- Quick and easy – Ready in under 30 minutes with minimal prep.
- Versatile – Pairs beautifully with chicken, turkey, pork, or even a vegetarian meal.
- Nutrient-packed – Full of fiber, vitamin A, antioxidants, and complex carbs that keep you satisfied.
- Check out these Smashed Sweet Potatoes for another fun side dish recipe!
Ingredients & Substitutions
These are the ingredients and substitutes for these creamy mashed sweet potatoes. Scroll down to the recipe card below for the entire recipe with measurements.
If possible, we prefer using organic sweet potatoes.
Butter adds a delicious flavor! Grass fed butter is our choice.
Maple syrup naturally sweetens these potatoes.
A little cinnamon adds a cozy fall flavor.
Lastly, top with chopped nuts. Pecans and walnuts are great choices!
Taste & Texture
These mashed sweet potatoes are creamy, buttery, and lightly sweet with a hint of savory saltiness. The texture is smooth and velvety yet rustic enough to feel homemade—not overly whipped or watery.
They are the perfect balance of cozy comfort and real-food simplicity.
How to Make Mashed Sweet Potatoes
Step 1
First, bring a pot of water over high heat to a boil. Peel the potatoes. Dice into 1 to 2-inch pieces. Add the potatoes to the water and cook until tender when pierced with a fork, about 15 to 20 minutes.
Step 2
Drain the water and puree the potatoes with an electric mixer or hand masher.
Step 3
Mix in the butter, syrup, and cinnamon until thoroughly combined and smooth, being careful not to over mix.
Step 4
Finally, add the pecans and serve!
Expert Tips & Tricks
- Steam or boil evenly: Cut sweet potatoes into roughly equal chunks so they cook at the same rate.
- Immersion Blender: Use an immersion blender or hand masher to get extra creamy potatoes.
- Adjust creaminess: Add milk or dairy-free milk slowly until you reach your desired consistency.
- Flavor boosters: Try adding a pinch of cinnamon, fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary, or a drizzle of browned butter for extra depth.
- Make ahead: Prepare these mashed sweet potatoes up to 2 days in advance and gently reheat on the stovetop with a splash of milk.
How to Serve & Store
Serve your mashed sweet potatoes with:
Store:
- Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 4 days
- Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk to refresh creaminess
- Freeze leftovers in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months; thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating
Equipment Needed
Immersion Blender: Use an immersion blender to get extra creamy sweet potatoes.
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