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Close-up of creamy maple sweet potato mash topped with melting butter and fresh thyme.

Maple Sweet Potato Mash

A naturally sweet and creamy side dish made with roasted sweet potatoes, maple syrup, and butter. Perfect for Thanksgiving or any fall meal.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 25 minutes
Course Side Dish
Cuisine American
Servings 6 servings

Equipment

  • Baking Sheet
  • Medium saucepan
  • Potato masher or fork

Ingredients
  

  • 3 pounds medium-sized sweet potatoes (3 or 4)
  • 6 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 6 tablespoons pure maple syrup
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

For serving (optional)

  • Fresh thyme leaves optional

Instructions
 

  • Preheat the oven to 350°F and set an oven rack in the middle position. Line a baking sheet with foil for easy clean-up.
  • Prick each sweet potato 3 to 4 times with a fork. Place on the prepared baking sheet and bake until tender, 60 to 75 minutes; turn the potatoes over halfway through baking.
  • Meanwhile, melt the butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add the maple syrup, milk, salt, and pepper. Turn off the heat and set aside.
  • When the sweet potatoes are cooked and cool enough to handle, cut them in half. Holding them in one hand with an oven mitt, scoop the warm flesh out into the pan with the butter mixture.
  • Over low heat, mash the potatoes with a potato masher or fork until smooth. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
  • Transfer to a bowl and sprinkle with fresh thyme (if using). Serve hot.

Notes

These sweet potatoes can be made entirely ahead of time. Before serving, stir in a bit of milk and reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Keyword easy sweet potato recipe, Fall Dinner Ideas, Thanksgiving side dishes