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Creamy Mashed Sweet Potatoes with Brown Butter

creamy mashed sweet potatoes with brown butter - featured image

A quick and easy comfort food recipe featuring creamy mashed sweet potatoes enhanced with nutty brown butter for a rich, indulgent flavor.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 pounds sweet potatoes, peeled and chopped into 1-inch chunks
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1/4 cup heavy cream (or whole milk or coconut milk for dairy-free)
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
  • Pinch of freshly ground black pepper
  • Optional: 1 tablespoon maple syrup
  • Optional: Fresh herbs like thyme or sage, chopped

Instructions

  1. Peel and chop sweet potatoes into roughly 1-inch cubes.
  2. Place chopped sweet potatoes in a large pot, cover with cold water by about an inch, add a pinch of salt, and bring to a boil over medium-high heat.
  3. Reduce heat to a simmer and cook until potatoes are tender, about 15-20 minutes.
  4. Drain potatoes well in a colander and let sit to steam off excess moisture.
  5. While potatoes cook, melt butter in a medium skillet over medium heat, swirling frequently until it foams and turns golden brown with a nutty aroma (3-5 minutes). Remove from heat.
  6. Transfer drained sweet potatoes to a large bowl and mash gently with a potato masher until mostly smooth but still slightly textured.
  7. Slowly stir in heavy cream and browned butter until creamy and luscious.
  8. Season with salt and black pepper, adjusting to taste.
  9. Optionally stir in maple syrup and sprinkle with fresh herbs.
  10. Mix gently to combine and serve warm.

Notes

Watch the butter closely when browning to avoid burning. Do not overcook or over-mash the sweet potatoes to prevent a gluey texture. Let drained potatoes steam off excess moisture before mashing for creaminess. Brown the butter while potatoes cook to save time.

Nutrition

Keywords: mashed sweet potatoes, brown butter, comfort food, easy side dish, cozy recipe, quick mashed potatoes