Creamy Mashed Sweet Potatoes Recipe for Perfect Thanksgiving

Name: Creamy Mashed Sweet Potatoes
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 lbs sweet potatoes; 4 tbsp unsalted butter; 1/2 cup heavy cream (or milk for a lighter option); 2 tbsp brown sugar; 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon; Salt and pepper to taste

Published: November 15, 2025

by Amelia

Why You'll Love This Recipe

Creamy mashed sweet potatoes are easy to whip up, making meal prep stress-free
The flavor profile balances sweetness with savory notes for a delightful taste explosion
Their bright color adds visual appeal to any table setting
Perfect for Thanksgiving but versatile enough for weeknight dinners or holiday gatherings

Family gatherings are always chaotic, but I recall one Thanksgiving when my cousin accidentally mistook my sweet potato mash for pumpkin pie filling. His face was priceless when he took a spoonful! That’s how memorable this dish can be—turning moments into stories that last a lifetime.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Sweet Potatoes: Choose firm, vibrant orange sweet potatoes for the best flavor and texture. For more inspiration, check out this orange custard squares recipe.
Butter: Unsalted butter is ideal; it allows you to control the saltiness in your mash. For more inspiration, check out this garlic butter green beans recipe.
Heavy Cream: This adds richness; feel free to replace it with milk if you’re looking for a lighter option.
Brown Sugar: A touch of brown sugar enhances the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes.
Cinnamon: Just a sprinkle brings warmth and depth to the overall flavor profile.
Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings that balance out the sweetness.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below. vegan mushroom wellington.

Creamy Mashed Sweet Potatoes Recipe for Perfect Thanksgiving

Let’s Make it Together

Preparation Time: Start by peeling and chopping about 2 pounds of sweet potatoes into even chunks. This ensures they cook evenly.

Boil Until Tender: Place the chopped sweet potatoes into a large pot filled with cold water. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat until fork-tender—about 15-20 minutes.

Drain and Steam Dry: Once tender, drain the sweet potatoes thoroughly in a colander. Let them sit for about 5 minutes to steam dry; this step helps avoid watery mash.

Mash Them Up!: Transfer the drained sweet potatoes back into the pot. Use a potato masher or ricer to achieve that velvety texture you desire.

Add Creamy Goodness: Stir in butter and heavy cream gradually until fully incorporated. Adjust based on how creamy you want your mash—keep it smooth!

Season to Perfection: Add brown sugar, cinnamon, salt, and pepper to taste. Mix well, then serve hot—watch those faces light up with joy!

Now that you have mastered this creamy mashed sweet potatoes recipe for a perfect Thanksgiving side, it’s time to embrace those joyful family moments around your dinner table! Enjoy every spoonful while sharing laughter and creating new memories together! cheddar and ham stuffed trees.

You Must Know

This creamy mashed sweet potatoes recipe is perfect for Thanksgiving
Its velvety texture and rich flavor make it a crowd-pleaser
The vibrant orange color brightens up any table, and the aroma will have everyone coming back for seconds

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by peeling and chopping sweet potatoes into even pieces to ensure uniform cooking. Boil them until fork-tender, then mash with butter and cream for that dreamy texture.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to mix in spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for warmth. You can also add garlic or herbs for an extra kick, elevating the flavors beyond traditional mashed potatoes.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, warm them gently on the stove or microwave, adding a splash of cream if they seem too thick.

Chef's Helpful Tips

Always use fresh sweet potatoes for the best flavor; old ones can taste bland
Avoid over-mashing to keep a nice texture, and never skip seasoning—salt brings out sweetness!
Taste as you go to find your perfect balance of flavors

I remember the first time I made these creamy mashed sweet potatoes for Thanksgiving. My family’s rave reviews made me feel like a culinary superstar, and I couldn’t believe how quickly they disappeared!

FAQ

Can I make creamy mashed sweet potatoes ahead of time?

Yes, prepare them a day beforehand and reheat before serving.

What can I add to enhance the flavor?

Try adding maple syrup or brown sugar for sweetness.

How do I prevent lumps in my mashed sweet potatoes?

Ensure they are fully cooked before mashing for a smooth consistency.

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📖 Recipe Card