This creamy mashed sweet potato with garlic is a tasty side dish that will brighten up any meal. The natural sweetness of the potatoes pairs perfectly with the savory garlic flavor!
I love how easy it is to prepare, just mash and mix! Plus, it’s a fun way to sneak in some extra veggies. Who doesn’t love a little creamy goodness on their plate? 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Sweet Potatoes: These are the star of the dish! Look for smooth, firm potatoes without blemishes. If you can’t find sweet potatoes, you could use regular potatoes for a similar texture, though you’ll miss out on that natural sweetness.
Garlic: Fresh garlic gives a wonderful flavor. If you want a milder taste, try roasted garlic instead. You can also use garlic powder in a pinch, but fresh is best for a robust flavor.
Butter: Unsalted butter is preferred for controlling the amount of salt. If you’re dairy-free, feel free to use olive oil or a plant-based butter for a similar creaminess without dairy.
Milk: Whole milk gives great creaminess, but you can try almond milk, oat milk, or any other milk alternative if you’re lactose intolerant. Even chicken or vegetable broth can work if you want to add depth of flavor.
How Do I Achieve the Creamiest Mashed Sweet Potatoes?
To get that smooth, creamy texture, mashing your sweet potatoes properly is key. After boiling, it’s important to allow them to dry slightly in the pot before adding other ingredients. This helps remove excess moisture.
- Boil the sweet potatoes and garlic until they’re really tender. This usually takes about 15-20 minutes.
- Drain well, and return them to the pot. Let them sit for a couple of minutes to steam off excess water.
- Add butter first and mash until mixed well. Then slowly add your milk or cream while mashing for the perfect consistency.
- Don’t over-mash! This can make them gluey, so use a ricer or masher to avoid that.
With these little tips, you’ll be enjoying the best creamy, garlicky sweet potatoes in no time!
Mashed Sweet Potato With Garlic
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 pounds sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks
- 3 cloves garlic, peeled
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup milk (or cream for a richer texture)
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh thyme or parsley, for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 25-30 minutes total. You’ll spend around 15-20 minutes boiling the sweet potatoes and garlic until tender, followed by 10 minutes for mashing and seasoning. It’s quick and delicious!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Boil the Sweet Potatoes and Garlic:
Start by placing the sweet potatoes and garlic cloves in a large pot. Fill it with cold water so that everything is submerged. Bring the water to a boil over high heat, then reduce to medium. Let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes are soft and can be easily pierced with a fork.
2. Drain and Prepare to Mash:
Once the sweet potatoes and garlic are tender, carefully drain them in a colander. Return them to the pot or place them in a large bowl. This helps keep some heat in, allowing for a smoother mash.
3. Mash Away!
Add the unsalted butter to the sweet potatoes and garlic. Use a potato masher or a fork to mash everything together until it’s nice and creamy. If you have a ricer, that works wonders too. The key is to get rid of any lumps!
4. Bring It All Together:
Slowly pour in the milk, stirring as you go, until you reach your desired creaminess. You can adjust the milk based on how thick or creamy you like your mash. Season the mixture with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
5. Serve with Style:
Spoon the creamy mashed sweet potatoes into a serving bowl. If you’re feeling fancy, add an extra pat of butter on top to melt and create that lovely, rich finish. Garnish everything with some fresh thyme or parsley for a lovely touch of color and flavor.
6. Enjoy!
Serve your warm mashed sweet potatoes as a delightful side dish. They’re perfect for any occasion and sure to impress your family and friends!
This dish not only looks vibrant with its orange color but also offers a satisfying creamy texture and a wonderful garlic flavor. Enjoy your cooking!
Can I Use Other Types of Potatoes?
Yes, you can substitute regular potatoes, but keep in mind that the flavor will be different. Sweet potatoes provide a natural sweetness that regular potatoes lack. If you do switch them out, consider adding a touch of sugar or maple syrup for sweetness!
How Should I Store Leftover Mashed Sweet Potatoes?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When ready to eat, reheat in the microwave or on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of milk if needed to restore creaminess.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegan?
Absolutely! To make this dish vegan, simply substitute the butter with a plant-based butter or olive oil, and use a non-dairy milk like almond or oat milk. The final product will still be creamy and delicious!
Is There a Way to Add More Flavor?
Yes! For added flavor, consider mixing in spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, or a pinch of cayenne for heat. You could also fold in some sautéed onions or herbs like rosemary for an extra kick!
