This mashed sweet potato with garlic is a creamy, flavorful side dish that’s sure to please! The sweetness of the potatoes pairs beautifully with the savory garlic.
It’s so easy to make, just boil, mash, and mix in some buttery goodness! I like to enjoy it with grilled chicken or fish for a colorful plate. Give it a try—you’ll love it! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Sweet Potatoes: These are the star of the dish! Choose firm, smooth ones without blemishes for the best flavor. If you can’t find sweet potatoes, yams can work as a substitute, but they have a slightly different taste.
Garlic: Fresh garlic adds a wonderful kick. If you’re short on time, you can use garlic powder (about 1 teaspoon), but fresh is always best for flavor!
Butter: Unsalted butter gives a rich creaminess. For a dairy-free alternative, coconut oil or vegan butter can be used instead, providing a similar texture.
Milk: If you prefer a lighter version, use alternative milk such as almond or oat milk. For those who love a rich flavor, heavy cream is a delightful choice!
How Do You Achieve the Perfect Creamy Texture?
Getting your mashed sweet potatoes creamy requires a little technique. Here are some tips to ensure you get that smooth consistency:
- Cook the potatoes until they’re very tender—this makes them easier to mash. Test with a fork; it should slide in easily.
- Draining well is crucial. Excess water can make them runny, so let them sit in the colander for a minute.
- When mashing, start with a potato masher for texture and switch to a hand mixer for extra smoothness, if desired.
- Add warm milk or cream gradually. This helps incorporate it evenly without making the potatoes too liquid.
Follow these steps, and you’ll have dreamy, creamy mashed sweet potatoes that everyone will love! Enjoy every bite!
How to Make Mashed Sweet Potato With Garlic
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Mashed Sweet Potatoes:
- 2 large sweet potatoes (about 2 pounds), peeled and cubed
- 4 cloves garlic, peeled
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup milk (or cream for richer texture)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, freshly ground
For Garnishing:
- Fresh thyme sprigs (optional)
- Olive oil for drizzling (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish will take about 30 minutes to prepare. You’ll need around 15-20 minutes to cook the sweet potatoes and garlic and then another 10-15 minutes for mashing and mixing. It’s a quick and easy side that packs a lot of flavor!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Boil the Sweet Potatoes and Garlic:
Start by placing the peeled and cubed sweet potatoes along with the whole garlic cloves in a large pot. Cover everything with cold water and add a pinch of salt. Bring the pot to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat and let it simmer. Cook until the sweet potatoes are very tender, about 15-20 minutes. You can check if they’re done by piercing them with a fork; it should slide in easily.
2. Drain and Return to Pot:
Once the sweet potatoes and garlic are tender, carefully drain them in a colander. Let them sit for a minute to make sure all the water is gone. Then, return the sweet potatoes and garlic back to the pot or transfer them to a large mixing bowl.
3. Mash the Mixture:
Add the unsalted butter to the sweet potatoes and garlic. Start mashing with a potato masher for a rustic texture, or use a hand mixer if you prefer a super smooth consistency. Keep mashing until the mixture is creamy.
4. Add Creaminess:
If you like it richer, warm the milk (or cream) slightly, then gradually add it to the mashed sweet potatoes while continuing to mash. This will help keep the mixture smooth and avoid any lumps.
5. Season and Garnish:
Season your mashed sweet potatoes with salt and freshly ground black pepper to your liking, mixing well. Transfer the mash to a serving bowl. For an extra touch, garnish with fresh thyme sprigs on top and drizzle with a bit of olive oil, if desired.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the mashed sweet potatoes warm as a tasty side dish at your next meal. They pair perfectly with roast meats, fish, or anything you love. Enjoy every creamy, garlicky bite!
Can I Use Other Types of Potatoes?
While sweet potatoes are ideal for this recipe, you can use regular potatoes if you prefer a different flavor. Just keep in mind that the texture and taste will be a bit different!
What If I Don’t Have Fresh Garlic?
If fresh garlic isn’t available, you can use garlic powder as a substitute. About 1 teaspoon will do. However, fresh garlic provides a more robust flavor!
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the mashed sweet potatoes and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk if needed to loosen the texture.
How Can I Add More Flavor to the Mash?
Try adding a pinch of smoked paprika, a dash of nutmeg, or even a squeeze of lemon juice for more depth of flavor. You can also mix in some shredded cheese or chopped herbs for an extra zing!
