Mashed Sweet Potatoes: the mouthwatering essential side dish for Thanksgiving dinner

Whether served mashed, baked, roasted, or made into a pie, sweet potatoes are a fixture for any Thanksgiving dinner. Creamy, buttery mashed sweet potatoes are always a popular way to serve this tasty tuber during the holidays.

They're a delicious, nutritious alternative to classic mashed potatoes, offering an amazing, sweet flavor that complements other Thanksgiving fare like roast turkey, ham, and green bean casserole. Mashed sweet potatoes can be made in sweet, savory, and even spicy versions. They're simple, hearty, and comforting, and will go well with all sorts of beloved autumn dishes.

Easy Top Tips for Making Mashed Sweet Potatoes

Put a sweet spin on your mashed sweet potatoes by adding brown sugar, honey, cinnamon, pumpkin pie spice, or your other favorite baking spices.

Instead of boiling the sweet potatoes, you can roast them for 1 hour at 400F.

For a lighter mash, use whole milk. Plant-based milks and olive oil or a plant-based spread can be used to make vegan-friendly, dairy-free mashed sweet potatoes.

For savory additions, try fresh herbs, cayenne pepper, roasted garlic, cheese, or sour cream.

Don't forget to drain the sweet potatoes well so you don't wind up with a watery mash.

If you like smooth mashed sweet potatoes, use a handheld blender to blend them.

How to Store Mashed Sweet Potatoes

Cooled mashed sweet potatoes can be kept in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. When reheating them, add a tablespoon or so of milk or cream.

How to Make Mashed Sweet Potatoes

Peel and cut sweet potatoes into 2-inch pieces.

Pour water into a large pot. Salt well, then bring to a boil. Add sweet potatoes and boil until fork-tender, about 15 minutes.

Drain the sweet potatoes and leave them to cool slightly in the colander.

Put again the sweet potatoes in the pot or place them in a bowl, then add butter. Mash well.

Pour in a little cream, then mash. Repeat until the sweet potatoes have reached your desired consistency.

Add salt and pepper and serve warm.