Browned Butter Mashed Sweet Potatoes

Sweet potatoes are a beloved staple in many kitchens, and when transformed into mashed sweet potatoes with a rich, nutty twist, they become a true showstopper. This recipe for Browned Butter Mashed Sweet Potatoes takes your classic mashed sweet potatoes up a notch by incorporating browned butter, which adds a deep, caramelized flavor that perfectly complements the natural sweetness of the potatoes. Whether you’re preparing a comforting weeknight side or a special holiday dish, this recipe is sure to please every palate at the table.

Why This Recipe is a Keeper

Browned Butter Mashed Sweet Potatoes stand out because they deliver a delicious balance of creamy texture and complex flavor without any fuss. The key to this recipe is the browned butter, which infuses the potatoes with a toasty, rich essence that elevates the dish beyond ordinary mashed sweet potatoes. It’s a simple recipe with few ingredients, yet it creates a luxurious side dish that pairs wonderfully with roasted meats, vibrant vegetable bowls, or even a fresh herb potato salad. Plus, the subtle hint of cinnamon is optional but adds a warm spice note that makes this dish feel cozy and inviting.

If you love recipes that highlight natural ingredients but don’t sacrifice flavor, this dish belongs in your recipe arsenal. And if you’re looking for a hearty, wholesome meal, you might want to try pairing it with a Roasted Sweet Potato And Kale Bowl or a Southwest Quinoa Bowl to round out your menu.

The Ingredient Lineup

• 2 pounds sweet potatoes, peeled and diced – Choose firm, fresh sweet potatoes to ensure creamy mash.
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter – This will be browned to bring out a nutty flavor.
• 1/4 cup milk – Use whole milk for creaminess, or a milk alternative if preferred.
• Salt, to taste – Enhances the natural sweetness of the potatoes.
• Pepper, to taste – Adds a subtle kick and balances the sweetness.
• 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon (optional) – Adds warmth and depth but is entirely optional.

Before You Start: Equipment

• Large pot – For boiling the diced sweet potatoes until tender.
• Skillet or saucepan – For browning the butter to unlock its unique flavor.
• Potato masher or electric mixer – To mash the potatoes to your desired consistency.
• Colander – To drain the cooked sweet potatoes.
• Mixing bowl – To combine all ingredients evenly.
• Measuring cups and spoons – For precise ingredient amounts.

The Method for Browned Butter Mashed Sweet Potatoes

Step 1: Prepare and Cook the Sweet Potatoes

Begin by peeling and dicing 2 pounds of sweet potatoes into evenly sized chunks. This ensures they cook uniformly. Place the diced sweet potatoes in a large pot and cover them with cold water. Add a pinch of salt to the water, then bring it to a boil over medium-high heat. Cook the sweet potatoes until they are fork-tender, about 15-20 minutes. Avoid overcooking, which can make them waterlogged.

Step 2: Brown the Butter

While the sweet potatoes are cooking, melt 1/2 cup of unsalted butter in a skillet over medium heat. Keep a close eye on it as it melts; after a few minutes, the butter will begin to foam and then turn golden brown with a nutty aroma. This process usually takes around 5 minutes. Once browned, remove the skillet from heat to prevent burning.

Step 3: Drain and Mash

Drain the cooked sweet potatoes thoroughly using a colander, then return them to the pot or transfer to a large mixing bowl. Use a potato masher or electric mixer to mash the potatoes until smooth but still slightly textured. This will give you that perfect creamy yet rustic mash.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

Slowly pour the browned butter over the mashed sweet potatoes. Add 1/4 cup of milk to loosen the texture and make the mash silky. Season with salt and freshly ground pepper to taste. If you’re using cinnamon, sprinkle it in now to add a fragrant warmth. Mix everything until well combined and creamy.

Step 5: Taste and Adjust

Taste your Browned Butter Mashed Sweet Potatoes and adjust the seasoning if needed. More salt, pepper, or cinnamon can be added depending on your preference. Serve immediately for the best flavor and texture.

Dairy-Free/Gluten-Free Swaps

• Replace unsalted butter with a plant-based butter alternative or coconut oil for a dairy-free option while still achieving a browned butter effect.
• Use almond milk, oat milk, or any other unsweetened milk alternative instead of cow’s milk to keep it dairy-free.
• Sweet potatoes are naturally gluten-free, so no swaps are needed there.
• Make sure your butter alternative does not contain any gluten-based additives.

Things That Go Wrong

• Burned butter: Butter can go from browned to burnt quickly. Watch it closely and remove it from heat as soon as it turns golden brown with a nutty smell.
• Watery mashed sweet potatoes: Overcooked sweet potatoes can absorb too much water. Drain well and avoid adding too much milk at first.
• Undercooked sweet potatoes: If the pieces are too large or uneven, they may not cook through. Dice evenly and test tenderness with a fork.
• Over-seasoning: Start with less salt and pepper and adjust gradually; sweet potatoes have natural sweetness that can be overwhelmed by heavy seasoning.

Best Ways to Store

Store any leftovers of your Browned Butter Mashed Sweet Potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep well for 3-4 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally and adding a splash of milk if needed to restore creaminess. For longer storage, you can freeze the mashed sweet potatoes in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Browned Butter Mashed Sweet Potatoes Q&A

Can I make Browned Butter Mashed Sweet Potatoes ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the mashed sweet potatoes a day in advance. Store them in the refrigerator and gently reheat before serving. Just add a little extra milk or butter during reheating to refresh the texture.

How do I know when the butter is perfectly browned?

When browning butter, watch for a golden-brown color and a rich, nutty aroma. The butter will foam initially and then the foam will subside as the milk solids toast. Remove from heat immediately to avoid burning.

Can I add other spices or herbs to this recipe?

Definitely! While cinnamon is a lovely subtle addition, you could also stir in a pinch of nutmeg, smoked paprika, or fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for a savory twist. Just be mindful not to overpower the browned butter flavor.

What’s the best way to achieve a smooth mash without a food processor?

A potato masher or a hand mixer works wonderfully. If you want ultra-smooth mashed sweet potatoes, a food mill or ricer can be used, but it’s not necessary for a delicious texture.

Desserts to Finish

• Fresh Herb Potato Salad – A refreshing, herby dish to balance your meal.
• Southwest Quinoa Bowl – Hearty and packed with flavor, perfect for a wholesome dinner.
• Classic pumpkin pie – A seasonal favorite that pairs well with the warm flavors of browned butter and cinnamon.
• Apple crisp with oat topping – Sweet, tart, and crunchy, a delightful way to end the day.

Before You Go

Before you dive into making these Browned Butter Mashed Sweet Potatoes, remember that the magic lies in the simplicity and quality of your ingredients. Take your time browning the butter—it’s the star that transforms this dish from ordinary to extraordinary. This recipe is versatile and pairs beautifully with a variety of meals, whether you’re enjoying a casual dinner or hosting a festive occasion. For more vibrant and nourishing recipes, check out the Roasted Sweet Potato And Kale Bowl to add a fresh, hearty element to your menu.

Now, roll up your sleeves, grab those sweet potatoes, and prepare to delight your taste buds with the rich, buttery goodness of these mashed sweet potatoes. They’re sure to become a favorite in your kitchen!

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