Basic Ass Cooking

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If you’re looking for a holiday side dish that’s easy, cozy, and straight-up delicious, mashed sweet potatoes are always a winner. And the best part? You don’t need any fancy tools or complicated steps, just a few ingredients, a pot, and a little bit of love.

In this recipe, I break down how to make smooth, flavorful mashed sweet potatoes. This dish is perfect for Thanksgiving, Christmas, Sunday dinner, or any day you want something warm and comforting.

Mashed sweet potatoes also make a great make-ahead side, so you can prep them early and keep your holiday stress low.

Give it a try, and let me know how you dress yours up! And if you want to cook along with me, be sure to check out the full video on the Basic Ass Cooking Channel.

Ingredients

• 4–5 large sweet potatoes
• 4 tbsp butter
• 1/4 cup milk, half-and-half, or cream (adjust for how creamy you want it)
• 1/4 cup brown sugar or maple syrup (optional, for sweetness)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional add-ins:
  • Cinnamon
  • Nutmeg
  • Vanilla extract

Instructions

1. Prep your sweet potatoes.
   Score them around the thickest part of the sweet potato. Rinse off any dirt.
2. Boil until tender.
   Add sweet potatoes to a large pot, cover with water, and boil until fork-tender — usually around 20–25 minutes. You can also steam the potatoes using a steamer pot.
3. Drain and mash.
   Drain the potatoes well, then return them to the pot or a bowl. Mash with a potato masher, fork, or mixer. I use my KitchenAid mixer on low as a way to easily mash the potatoes.
4. Add the flavor.
   Stir in the butter, your milk/cream of choice, brown sugar, and cinnamon / pumpkin pie spice / nutmeg / whatever you choose.. Start with a splash of milk and then liquid and add more until you reach your preferred texture.
5. Season to taste.
   Add salt and taste. Add enough until it tastes just right to you. Add more brown sugar for sweetness or cinnamon for warmth until it is perfect.
6. Serve warm.
   These mashed sweet potatoes are perfect right away or can be reheated for stress-free holiday dinners.

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💡 Tips & Variations

• Make it ahead: Store in the fridge for up to 3 days; reheat with a splash of milk.
• Make it dessert-y: Add more brown sugar + cinnamon + a splash of vanilla.
• Make it fancy: Top with toasted pecans or a swirl of maple butter.

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If you try this recipe, leave a comment below — and be sure to watch the full video on the Basic Ass Cooking Channel!