She Strengthens

Sweet Potato Perfection: A Simple yet Delicious Recipe

When it comes to sweet potatoes, we often think of elaborate dishes like pecan-strewn casseroles or flaky pie crusts. But sometimes, simplicity is the key to unlocking their true flavor and texture. This easy recipe for mashed sweet potatoes is a game-changer, perfect for Thanksgiving or a cozy weeknight dinner.

The Secret to Fluffy Sweet Potatoes

The trick to achieving a light and fluffy mash lies in baking the sweet potatoes instead of boiling them. This method prevents them from becoming waterlogged, allowing their natural sweetness to shine through. Simply bake them in the oven until tender, then mash with a few carefully chosen ingredients.

A Delicious Side Dish for Any Occasion

Serve this mouthwatering mash alongside a roasted turkey on Thanksgiving, or pair it with roasted chicken or braised short ribs on a weeknight. The result is a comforting side dish that’s sure to become a family favorite.

Recipe Details

Yield: 6 servings
Difficulty: Easy
Total Time: 15 minutes, plus 1 hour 20 minutes baking and cooling time

Ingredients

• 4 pounds medium Garnet sweet potatoes
• 6 tablespoons unsalted butter (3/4 stick), melted
• 1/2 cup heavy cream, at room temperature
• 2 tablespoons maple syrup
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt, plus more as needed
• 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, plus more as needed

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat and Prep

Heat your oven to 375°F and arrange a rack in the middle. Line a baking sheet with foil and place the sweet potatoes on it.

Bake to Perfection

Bake the sweet potatoes until knife-tender, about 45 minutes to 1 hour. Remove the baking sheet from the oven and let it cool for 20 minutes.

Mash and Season

Cut the sweet potatoes in half lengthwise and scrape out the flesh with a spoon. Transfer the flesh to a large bowl and discard the skins. Using a potato masher, mash the flesh until smooth. Add the remaining ingredients and stir until evenly combined. Taste and season with additional salt and pepper as needed.

Enjoy your perfectly mashed sweet potatoes!