Name: Mashed Sweet Potato with Brown Butter
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3–4 large sweet potatoes; ½ cup unsalted butter; 4 sage leaves; 1 oz sour cream; 2 garlic cloves, grated; ½ cup heavy cream (adjust as needed); ¼ tsp ground cinnamon; ¼ tsp ground nutmeg; ½ tsp salt, or to taste; ¼ tsp ground black pepper

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Short Description

Creamy mashed sweet potatoes enhanced with nutty brown butter, sage, garlic, and warm spices—this dish is rich, velvety, and perfect as a comforting side for holidays or cozy dinners.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe elevates traditional mashed sweet potatoes with the deep, toasty flavor of brown butter and the earthy aroma of sage. The addition of sour cream and heavy cream makes it luxuriously creamy, while cinnamon and nutmeg bring a subtle hint of warmth. It’s elegant enough for a festive spread yet simple enough for weeknight meals.

Ingredients

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

3–4 large sweet potatoes
½ cup unsalted butter
4 sage leaves
1 oz sour cream
2 garlic cloves, grated
½ cup heavy cream (adjust as needed)
¼ tsp ground cinnamon
¼ tsp ground nutmeg
½ tsp salt, or to taste
¼ tsp ground black pepper

Directions

Boil the Sweet Potatoes

Peel and cut the sweet potatoes into evenly sized chunks.
Place them into a large pot of salted water and boil for 15–20 minutes, or until fork tender.

Prepare the Sage Brown Butter

In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter. Add the sage leaves and stir continuously, reducing heat if needed.
Cook until the butter turns golden brown and gives off a nutty aroma. Reserve 1–2 tablespoons for topping later.
Stir in grated garlic, heavy cream, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Cook for about 1 minute to warm the cream, then remove from heat.

Mash the Sweet Potatoes

Drain the boiled sweet potatoes and return them to the warm pot.
Add sour cream, the prepared butter and cream mixture, salt, and pepper. Mash with a potato masher or blend with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy.
Transfer to a serving dish and drizzle with reserved brown butter. Garnish with fresh thyme or a sprinkle of cinnamon if desired.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4–6
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

Replace sage with rosemary or thyme for a different herbal note.
Add a drizzle of maple syrup for extra sweetness.
Stir in grated Parmesan for a savory, cheesy twist.
Use coconut milk instead of heavy cream for a dairy-free option.
Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for subtle heat.
Swap sour cream for Greek yogurt for a tangier profile.
Incorporate caramelized onions for depth of flavor.
Use roasted sweet potatoes instead of boiled for a more intense taste.
Add toasted pecans on top for crunch.
Mix in a little orange zest for brightness.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of cream or milk to restore creaminess.
You can also microwave in short intervals, stirring in between, until warm.
Freeze for up to 1 month in a freezer-safe container; thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

FAQs

What does browning the butter do?

It adds a nutty, caramelized flavor that enhances the sweetness of the potatoes.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, prepare up to 2 days in advance and reheat before serving, adding cream if needed to restore texture.

Can I use half-and-half instead of heavy cream?

Yes, but the result may be slightly less rich and creamy.

Do I need to peel the sweet potatoes?

Peeling is recommended for a smooth mash, though you can leave skins on for added texture and nutrients.

Can I use dried sage instead of fresh?

Fresh sage is best, but you can substitute ½ teaspoon dried sage if needed.

How can I make it lighter?

Use less butter, swap sour cream for Greek yogurt, and reduce the cream slightly.

Can I roast the garlic instead of grating it?

Yes, roasted garlic adds a milder, sweeter flavor to the mash.

What potatoes work best?

Orange-fleshed sweet potatoes are ideal for their sweetness and creamy texture.

How do I keep it from being too sweet?

Balance the natural sweetness with extra black pepper, garlic, or even a pinch of smoked paprika.

Is this dish suitable for holidays?

Absolutely—it’s a festive and flavorful side dish that pairs beautifully with turkey, ham, or roast beef.

Conclusion

Mashed Sweet Potato with Brown Butter is a luxurious yet easy side dish that transforms simple ingredients into a flavorful, comforting favorite. The nuttiness of brown butter, earthiness of sage, and richness of cream make this a standout addition to any table.

Maggie

Mashed Sweet Potato with Brown Butter

Short Description

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Ingredients