This creamy mashed sweet potato with garlic is a real treat! The natural sweetness of the potatoes pairs perfectly with the savory flavor of garlic, creating a delicious side dish.
It’s so easy to make! Just boil, mash, and mix in some garlic and butter. I love serving this during family dinners—it’s always a crowd-pleaser! 🥳
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Sweet Potatoes: The star of the dish! Look for smooth, firm sweet potatoes without blemishes. If you’re short on time, you could also use canned sweet potatoes, but fresh ones yield the best flavor and texture.
Garlic: Fresh garlic gives a bold flavor you’ll truly enjoy. If you prefer a milder taste, roasted garlic is a great alternative. Just pop a head of garlic in the oven until soft, then mash it with your sweet potatoes!
Butter: Unsalted butter allows you to control the salt. You can substitute with olive oil for a lighter flavor or even vegan butter if you’re looking for a dairy-free option.
Milk: Any milk works well here, including almond or oat milk if you’re keeping it dairy-free. For a richer texture, feel free to use cream instead!
How Do I Ensure My Mashed Sweet Potatoes Are Super Creamy?
Getting that perfect creamy texture relies on the cooking and mashing process. Here’s how to nail it:
- Boil the sweet potatoes and garlic until they are very tender—this usually takes about 15-20 minutes. Don’t rush this step!
- Drain them well to remove excess moisture, which can make your mash watery. Return them to the pot to keep warm.
- Start mashing with butter while they are still hot. This helps the butter melt in fully and creates a smooth texture.
- Gradually add milk until you reach your desired creaminess—don’t add it all at once!
With these tips, you’ll have the most delightful, creamy mashed sweet potatoes that everyone will love!
Mashed Sweet Potato With Garlic
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 4 cloves garlic, peeled
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup milk (or cream for richer texture)
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Optional garnish: chopped fresh herbs (such as parsley or sage)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 25-30 minutes total. You’ll need around 10 minutes for prep (peeling and cubing the sweet potatoes) and about 15-20 minutes for cooking. This way, you’ll have a delicious side dish ready in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Ingredients:
Start by peeling the sweet potatoes and cutting them into even-sized cubes, about 1 to 2 inches each. This helps them cook evenly. Peel your garlic cloves as well, and you’re ready to go!
2. Cook the Sweet Potatoes and Garlic:
Place the cubed sweet potatoes and whole garlic cloves into a large pot. Cover them with cold water and add a pinch of salt to enhance the flavor. Bring the pot to a boil over medium-high heat. Let them cook until the sweet potatoes are fork-tender, which should take about 15 to 20 minutes.
3. Drain and Mash:
Once they’re cooked, carefully drain the sweet potatoes and garlic in a colander. Return them to the pot (with the heat turned off) to keep warm. Add the butter to the pot, and use a potato masher or fork to start mashing the sweet potatoes and garlic together until they’re mostly smooth.
4. Add Milk and Season:
Slowly stir in the milk, adjusting the amount until you achieve your desired creamy consistency. Taste the mashed sweet potatoes and season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to your liking. This step lets you cater the flavors just for you!
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Transfer the creamy mashed sweet potatoes to a serving bowl. If you’re feeling fancy, garnish with chopped fresh herbs like parsley or sage for a pop of color and flavor. Now it’s ready to serve warm alongside your favorite dishes.
Enjoy your flavorful mashed sweet potatoes infused with gentle garlic character! Happy cooking!
Can I Use Unsweetened Almond Milk Instead of Cow’s Milk?
Absolutely! Unsweetened almond milk is a great dairy-free substitute. Just add it gradually as you would with regular milk until you reach your desired creaminess.
How Can I Make This Recipe Vegan?
To make this mashed sweet potato recipe vegan, simply substitute the unsalted butter with vegan butter or olive oil, and use plant-based milk, such as almond or oat milk. It will still be delicious!
Can I Make This Recipe in Advance?
Yes, you can! Prepare the mashed sweet potatoes and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk to refresh the texture.
What’s the Best Way to Reheat Leftovers?
For the best results, reheat the mashed sweet potatoes on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally. If they feel too thick, add a little more milk to bring back the creamy consistency.
