Side Dish: United States – Classic Mashed Sweet Potatoes

Food safety reminder: Follow safe food-handling practices and use a food thermometer to verify safe internal cooking temperatures.

Serving Size: 6

Approximate Time

Prep 10 min

Cook 15 min

Total 25 min

Ingredients

U.S. measurements first, metric equivalents in parentheses. Conversions are approximate; oz means weight ounces, not fluid ounces.

2 lb (900 g) sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into 1–2-inch (2.54 to 5.08 cm) cubes
4 tbsp (60 ml) unsalted butter
1 / 4–1 / 3 cup (60–80 ml) whole milk or cream
1 tbsp (15 ml) maple syrup or brown sugar (optional)
Salt to taste
Freshly ground black pepper to taste
Pinch ground cinnamon (optional)

Show original ingredient measurements

2 lb / 900 g sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into 1–2-inch cubes
4 tbsp (60 ml) unsalted butter
1 / 4–1 / 3 cup (60–80 ml) whole milk or cream
1 tbsp (15 ml) maple syrup or brown sugar (optional)
Salt to taste
Freshly ground black pepper to taste
Pinch ground cinnamon (optional)

Instructions

1. Place sweet potato cubes in a pot, cover with cold water, add a pinch of salt, and bring to a boil.  
2. Simmer until very tender, about 12–15 minutes; drain well.  
3. Return potatoes to the pot or a bowl and mash with butter until smooth.  
4. Stir in milk or cream a little at a time to reach desired consistency; add maple syrup if using.  
5. Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of cinnamon; taste and adjust. Serve warm.