This mashed sweet potato dish is creamy, rich, and full of flavor thanks to the garlic. It’s a perfect side dish that adds a touch of sweetness to any meal!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Sweet Potatoes: These are the star of the dish, delivering a natural sweetness. If you can’t find sweet potatoes, try using butternut squash for a similar flavor and texture.
Garlic: Fresh garlic adds a rich flavor. If you’re short on time, garlic powder can work in a pinch, but fresh really shines here!
Butter: Unsalted butter gives the best control over saltiness. If you’re vegan or dairy-free, swap it for olive oil or a vegan butter alternative.
Milk: Dairy milk makes it creamy, but feel free to substitute with almond milk, oat milk, or coconut milk if preferred or if you’re lactose intolerant.
Fresh Herbs: While parsley and thyme are great, you can also use rosemary or chives for a different flavor profile!
How Do I Get the Creamiest Mashed Sweet Potatoes?
A key to creamy mashed sweet potatoes is the mashing technique. Once your sweet potatoes and garlic are cooked till tender, be sure to drain them well; excess water can make them gluey. Here’s how to get it just right:
- Start by mashing the potatoes and garlic together using a potato masher for a rustic texture.
- If you want it smoother, use a handheld mixer, but don’t overmix, or they can become gummy.
- Gradually add milk as you mash to control the creaminess; stop when it reaches your desired consistency.
Enjoy your delicious mash! Flavor and texture come together for a delightful side dish.
How to Make Mashed Sweet Potato With Garlic
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Mash:
- 3 large sweet potatoes (about 2 pounds), peeled and chopped
- 3-4 cloves garlic, peeled
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup milk (adjust as needed for desired creaminess)
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, freshly ground, to taste
For Garnish:
- Fresh herbs (such as parsley or thyme) for garnish, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 25-30 minutes in total, including 15-20 minutes of cooking time and about 5-10 minutes for mashing and mixing. It’s quick, easy, and perfect for any meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Boil the Sweet Potatoes and Garlic:
Start by placing the peeled and chopped sweet potatoes and the whole garlic cloves into a large pot. Cover them with cold water, then bring to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat and let them simmer until the sweet potatoes are very tender (about 15-20 minutes). You want to be able to easily pierce them with a fork!
2. Drain and Prepare for Mashing:
After the sweet potatoes are nice and tender, carefully drain them along with the garlic. Return them to the pot or place them in a large mixing bowl. This step is important to get rid of excess water that can make your mash too runny.
3. Mash it Up!
Add the butter to the drained sweet potatoes and garlic. Using a potato masher or a handheld mixer, begin mashing them together until smooth and creamy. If you prefer a chunkier texture, you can mash them less. It’s totally up to you!
4. Mix in Milk and Season:
Gradually pour in the milk while continuing to mash. This helps achieve your desired level of creaminess. Once you’re satisfied, season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste, mixing thoroughly to ensure everything is well combined.
5. Garnish and Serve:
Transfer the mashed sweet potatoes to a serving bowl. For a beautiful finish, garnish with finely chopped fresh herbs. They add a nice touch and enhance the flavor!
6. Enjoy Your Delicious Dish:
Enjoy your warm and flavorful mashed sweet potato as a perfect side dish! It’s a great complement to any meal, and I’m sure it will be a hit!
This recipe brings out the natural sweetness of the sweet potatoes while the garlic adds a lovely savory touch. Happy cooking!
Can I Use Other Types of Potatoes for This Recipe?
While sweet potatoes are the star of this dish, you can use Yukon gold or red potatoes if you prefer. Keep in mind that the flavor will be less sweet, but it will still be delicious!
How Should I Store Leftover Mashed Sweet Potatoes?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat them in the microwave or on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of milk if they have thickened up.
Can I Make This Dish Vegan?
Absolutely! Substitute the butter with vegan butter or olive oil, and use a dairy-free milk such as almond or oat milk to keep it fully plant-based.
Is There a Way to Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the mashed sweet potatoes up to 2 days in advance. Just reheat them gently on the stove or in the microwave before serving, and add a little milk to regain creaminess if needed.
