Sweet Potato Mash with Butter

Name: Sweet Potato Mash with Butter
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 large sweet potatoes; 4 tablespoons of butter; Salt to taste; Black pepper to taste; Optional: a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg

Highlighted under: Daily Meals

I absolutely love making Sweet Potato Mash with Butter because it transforms a simple vegetable into a creamy, comforting dish. The natural sweetness of the sweet potatoes combined with the richness of butter creates a delightful balance that pairs well with any meal. I usually make this recipe when I want to impress my guests without spending a lot of time in the kitchen. This mash not only tastes incredible, but it also fills the house with a warm, inviting aroma that everyone loves.

Created by

Belinda Fraser

Last updated on 2026-01-07T15:17:34.742Z

When I first experimented with sweet potato mash, I was blown away by how simple ingredients could create such a luxurious side dish. The method I found, which incorporates boiling and mashing, really brings out the sweet potatoes’ flavor while maintaining its lovely texture. I recommend adding a dash of cinnamon for an unexpected twist!

Another tip I discovered is to use a potato ricer instead of a regular masher. This gives the mash a light and fluffy consistency that elevates the dish. Whether it's Thanksgiving or just a weekday dinner, this mash has become a staple at my table, and I’m sure it will be at yours too!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Velvety smooth texture that complements any main dish
Deliciously sweet and buttery flavor profile
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy evenings

      

The Perfect Sweet Potato

Choosing the right sweet potatoes is crucial for achieving the best flavor and texture in your mash. Look for large, firm sweet potatoes with smooth skin and no blemishes. Varieties like Beauregard or Garnet are excellent choices due to their sweetness and creamy texture. Avoid larger sweet potatoes that tend to be starchy and stringy as they can cloud the smoothness of the final dish.

When preparing your sweet potatoes, don’t rush the peeling process. Using a vegetable peeler gives you more control and decreases the chance of taking off too much flesh. Cutting them into uniform cubes, approximately 1-2 inches in size, ensures even cooking. If you prefer, you can leave the skins on for added texture and nutrients; just be sure to wash them thoroughly.

Achieving the Ideal Consistency

The secret to a velvety sweet potato mash lies in how you mash them. I recommend using a potato ricer or food mill for the smoothest results, but a simple fork or potato masher will also do the trick. Start mashing the sweet potatoes while they're still hot to help them break down easily. If you like your mash creamy, consider adding a splash of milk or cream, adjusting the consistency to your liking without sacrificing the sweet flavor.

When mixing in the butter and seasonings, do it while the potatoes are still steaming. This allows the butter to melt completely, incorporating its richness throughout the mash. Taste before serving and remember you can always adjust seasonings—if the mash tastes flat, a little more salt can really enhance the sweet flavor.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make this delightful mash:

Ingredients

2 large sweet potatoes
4 tablespoons of butter
Salt to taste
Black pepper to taste
Optional: a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg

Once you have everything, you’re ready to create a mouthwatering side dish!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps for perfect sweet potato mash:

Prepare Sweet Potatoes

Peel the sweet potatoes and cut them into cubes. This will help them cook faster and ensure a smooth mash.

Boil Potatoes

Place the cubed sweet potatoes in a large pot and cover them with water. Bring to a boil and cook until fork-tender, about 20 minutes.

Drain and Mash

Drain the cooked sweet potatoes and return them to the pot. Add the butter, salt, and black pepper. Mash until you achieve your desired consistency.

Serve

Transfer the sweet potato mash to a serving bowl. For an extra touch, sprinkle with a little cinnamon or a pat of butter on top before serving.

Enjoy your deliciously creamy sweet potato mash with your favorite main dish!

Pro Tips

For an even creamier mash, you can replace half of the butter with cream or milk. Adjust seasoning to your preference for the best flavor.

Storing and Reheating

If you find yourself with leftovers, sweet potato mash can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. It can also be frozen for longer storage, lasting up to three months. When freezing, I recommend portioning it out into smaller containers for easy thawing and use. To reheat, place it in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat, adding a little milk or water to restore its creamy texture as it warms.

Thaw frozen mash overnight in the refrigerator for best results. Avoid reheating from frozen directly, as this can lead to uneven heating and a watery consistency. When you reheat, stir frequently and add more butter or seasonings to revive its flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Sweet potato mash pairs beautifully with a variety of main dishes. Consider serving it alongside roasted chicken, grilled steak, or even a hearty vegetarian dish like lentil loaf. You can elevate the presentation by drizzling a little olive oil or melted butter on top before serving, or garnishing with fresh herbs like thyme or chives for added color and flavor.

For a twist, you might experiment by mixing in other ingredients such as sautéed garlic, caramelized onions, or a touch of maple syrup for deeper sweetness. Try incorporating spices like paprika or cayenne for an unexpected kick. This versatility makes sweet potato mash a great base for creativity at your dinner table.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the sweet potato mash ahead of time and reheat it before serving.

→ Can I use orange sweet potatoes?

Absolutely! Orange sweet potatoes will give the mash a slightly different flavor but will be equally delicious.

→ What can I serve this mash with?

Sweet potato mash pairs well with a variety of dishes, including roasted chicken, turkey, or grilled vegetables.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.