Healthy Mashed Sweet Potatoes

Why are these mashed sweet potatoes healthy?

Sweet potatoes or yams have a naturally sweet, earthy flavor and a vibrant orange color that makes them a beautiful addition to any holiday table. Because they’re already rich and flavorful on their own, this mash keeps it simple—just a splash of milk and a small dab of butter.

It’s a lighter, healthier twist on traditional mashed potatoes—no heavy cream or stick of butter needed! There are only about 137 calories per serving.

Best way to mash sweet potatoes

There are various methods you can use to achieve the desired texture and flavor. Here are some common ways to mash them:

• Food processor- Add the cooked yams to the food processor and pulse until you achieve the desired consistency. Be careful not to over-process, as it can make it gluey.
• Potato masher - This is a straightforward and easy method. However, hand mashing can result in a slightly chunky texture.
• Fork - Use a large fork for a coarse texture.
• Potato ricer - Using a potato ricer, produces smooth and fine-textured mash.
• Immersion blender - Makes it smooth with a few small chunks.
• Food mill - Just like the food processor method, this yields the smoothest and creamiest mash (make sure to use the smallest grinding disc).
• Stand mixer - This method works well for larger quantities and produces a smooth texture. Use the paddle attachment to make a supreme mash.
• Electric hand mixer - It's a convenient method, especially if you want a smoother texture and when working with a small quantity.

Variations to try

This simple mashed sweet potato recipe can be customized to suit sweet or savory preferences. Here are some delicious ways to switch it up:

• Spices – Add ground cinnamon, nutmeg, or pumpkin pie spice.
• Sweetener – Swap brown sugar for maple syrup or honey.
• Garlic – Boil a garlic clove with the potatoes for a garlicky twist.
• Brown Butter – Stir in browned butter for rich, nutty caramel notes.
• Herbs – Mix in fresh thyme or rosemary.
• Bacon – Fold in crispy, chopped bacon for a salty crunch.
• Apple Topping – Sauté apples in butter and brown sugar, then spoon over the mash.
• Cheesy – Skip the brown sugar and stir in grated Gruyère or sharp cheddar.
• Crunchy Topping – Sprinkle toasted pecans on top for texture and fall vibes.
• Vegan-Friendly – Use vegan butter or coconut oil and plant-based milk like almond or oat.

How to make?

You can find full printable recipe below, but here is a quick overview of the procedure along with step-by-step photos.

1.Wash, peel and chop them into 1 to 2-inch chunks. Bring a large pot of salted water to boil, add the potatoes and cook until tender, about 10 minutes.

Tip: The boiling time can vary depending on the size of the potato chunks, but it typically takes around 7 to 15 minutes. You'll know they're ready when a fork easily pierces through them.

2. Drain well and let them hang out in the colander for a few minutes to ensure all the water is drained. Add drained yams back into the pot, add give a coarse mash.

3. Add butter, brown sugar, milk, salt, and pepper and mash with a potato masher until it reaches the desired consistency.

Tip: Begin with ¼ cup of milk and gradually increase to the desired consistency.

Storage and Reheating

Storing

• Refrigerator - Allow the sweet potato mash to cool to room temperature, transfer into an airtight container and refrigerate within 2 hours of cooking. Store for up to 3-4 days.
• Freezer - Freezing is a great way to prepare them in advance. To freeze, scoop them into airtight, freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. Place the containers or bags in the freezer and freeze for up to one month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating

When reheating, make sure to add a splash of milk or butter to restore their creamy texture.

• Microwave - Transfer the desired portion to a microwave-safe bowl. Heat on medium power in short intervals, stirring every 30 seconds to ensure even reheating. This prevents the edges from overheating.
• Oven - This method is best when reheating a large batch. Place the mash in an oven-safe dish and cover it with foil to retain moisture. Bake in a preheated 350-degree oven for 20-30 minutes, or until heated evenly.
• Stovetop - Place it in the saucepan over low heat. Stir occasionally to prevent burning and heat until they are thoroughly warm.

Recipe tips

• Mash when hot for a creamy consistency.
• Add milk gradually since some potatoes may absorb less liquid when compared to others. You can always add more if needed.
• Don't overcook. Cook them until fork tender but not falling apart. Overcooking them might result in a mushy consistency.

More sweet potato recipes for Thanksgiving

If you're a sweet potato fan like I am (or hosting someone who is), these tried-and-true favorites are perfect for adding variety, texture, and irresistible flavor to your holiday spread.

• Soft, tender, and slightly sweet, these sweet potato biscuits come out incredibly fluffy inside with a golden, crisp crust—no buttermilk needed, just pure comfort food magic.
• If oven space is tight, the air fryer baked sweet potato is a lifesaver—it cooks up fluffy inside with perfectly crisp skin, and with minimal prep, it’s easy to dress up with toppings for a no-fuss, loaded side.
• For a show-stopping dessert, you can’t go wrong with sweet potato pie—the filling is ultra-smooth and rich, baked into a flaky, buttery crust, and topped with soft clouds of brown sugar whipped cream that melt in your mouth.
• Add color and crunch to your menu with this roasted sweet potato and kale salad, featuring tender cubes of caramelized sweet potato, crisp kale, and a bold honey Dijon dressing—it’s sweet, savory, and refreshing all in one.
• Take it up a notch with sweet potato soufflé, a velvety, lightly sweet mash topped with a crisp, buttery pecan crumble—it’s elegant, comforting, and always a crowd-pleaser on the holiday table.