Name: Creamy Savory Mashed Sweet Potatoes
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 lb sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into 1″ cubes; 2 tsp salt, divided; 1 garlic clove, minced; 3 Tbsp butter, cubed, plus extra for serving; Freshly ground black pepper, to taste; ¼ cup sour cream; Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

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Short Description

Creamy Savory Mashed Sweet Potatoes are a luscious side dish made from tender, mashed sweet potatoes blended with garlic, butter, and sour cream. Garnished with fresh parsley, this comforting recipe complements any hearty meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Rich and velvety texture: Creamy sour cream and butter blend make these irresistibly smooth.
Savory balance: Garlic and black pepper give just enough bite to enhance the natural sweetness.
Simple ingredients: Common pantry staples combine to create a flavorful dish.
Easy prep and versatile: Prep in one pot, ready in under an hour, and fits into any meal occasion.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

4 lb sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into 1″ cubes
2 tsp salt, divided
1 garlic clove, minced
3 Tbsp butter, cubed, plus extra for serving
Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
¼ cup sour cream
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Directions

Boil the potatoes: Place sweet potato cubes in a large pot and cover with cold water. Add 1 tsp salt. Bring to a boil and cook until potatoes are tender (about 15–20 minutes).
Drain the potatoes thoroughly and return them to the hot pot.
Add flavorings: Add remaining 1 tsp salt, minced garlic, cubed butter, and black pepper to the potatoes.
Mash or blend: Use a potato masher or electric hand mixer on low to achieve desired consistency—smooth or slightly chunky.
Fold in sour cream: Stir well until creamy and evenly incorporated.
Serve: Transfer to a serving bowl. Top with extra butter and garnish with fresh chopped parsley.

Servings and Timing

Serves: 8–10
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes
Mash time: 5 minutes
Total time: Approximately 35 minutes

Variations

Herb upgrade: Fold in fresh chopped chives or thyme for extra aroma.
Cheesy delight: Add ½ cup grated Parmesan or sharp cheddar while mashing.
Spice twist: Stir in ¼ tsp smoked paprika or a pinch of cayenne for heat.
Dairy-free: Use plant-based butter and coconut yogurt instead of sour cream.
Citrus zest: Add 1 tsp lemon or orange zest for a bright, citrusy note.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Transfer to an airtight container; refrigerate up to 4 days.
Reheating: Gently reheat in the microwave or stovetop with a splash of milk or broth to maintain creaminess.
Freezing: Freeze in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight and reheat with added liquid.

FAQs

1. Why start in cold water?

Starting in cold water ensures even cooking—potatoes cook uniformly without an overcooked exterior.

2. How do I prevent watery mash?

Drain potatoes well; dry them briefly over low heat in the pot before mashing to remove excess moisture.

3. What’s the best tool for mashing?

A potato masher gives a classic texture; an electric mixer creates ultra-smooth mash—choose based on preference.

4. Can I use frozen sweet potatoes?

Yes—just thaw completely before boiling, then proceed with the recipe as instructed.

5. Is sour cream necessary?

It adds creaminess and tang. You can substitute Greek yogurt or cream cheese with minimal impact on texture.

6. How do I store leftovers?

Keep mashed sweet potatoes in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for 3 months.

7. Can I prepare ahead?

Absolutely—make in advance, then reheat gently and add fresh butter and parsley before serving.

8. How can I keep it from splitting?

Avoid overheating during reheating; stir gently and add liquid in small amounts to maintain consistency.

9. Are these potatoes spicy?

No—this version is savory. Add spices or herbs if you prefer a spicier mash.

10. What dishes pair well with this?

Wonderful alongside roasted meats, turkey, grilled chicken, or as part of a cozy vegetarian meal.

Conclusion

Creamy Savory Mashed Sweet Potatoes offer a deliciously smooth and comforting side dish with minimal effort. The blend of garlic, butter, and sour cream turns humble sweet potatoes into an elegant accompaniment to any meal. Make-ahead friendly and endlessly customizable, these mashed potatoes are destined to become a family favorite!