Effortlessly Delicious: The Ultimate Instant Pot Buttery Mashed Sweet Potatoes
Say goodbye to dull side dishes and hello to a vibrant, flavorful experience with these **Instant Pot Buttery Mashed Sweet Potatoes**! This recipe is more than just a side; it’s a celebration of simplicity and taste, making it the perfect accompaniment for any main course, whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or a grand holiday feast. Forget the stovetop scramble or oven hogging; your Instant Pot pressure cooker handles all the heavy lifting, freeing up valuable kitchen space and time. You’ll find yourself returning to this incredibly easy and utterly delicious **Instant Pot Sweet Potato Mash** recipe again and again!
This Instant Pot sweet potato recipe truly stands out as the ultimate method for creating perfectly mashed sweet potatoes with minimal effort. Imagine tender, whole sweet potatoes, expertly steamed in your Instant Pot, then lovingly blended with rich butter and aromatic fresh herbs. This savory approach offers a delightful change from traditional mashed potatoes or overly sweet sweet potato casseroles. The pressure cooker effortlessly transforms firm sweet potatoes into a velvety mash, eliminating the tedious boiling and waiting associated with conventional methods.
Crafted with just a few simple ingredients, this dish effortlessly elevates any meal. It serves beautifully as a wholesome and delicious side for everyday weeknight dinners. But don’t let its ease fool you – dress it up with a sprinkle of extra herbs or a dollop of crème fraîche, and it becomes a stunning, colorful addition to your holiday table, impressing guests with its vibrant hue and comforting flavor profile.
Why Choose Our Instant Pot Mashed Sweet Potatoes Recipe?
Our Instant Pot sweet potato mash recipe isn’t just easy; it’s incredibly versatile and designed for repeat performance in your kitchen. This is the kind of recipe you’ll want to keep on hand, ready to adapt to your family’s preferences. Fancy a different flavor? Experiment with various fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary. For a richer taste, a drizzle of high-quality olive oil can add a wonderful Mediterranean twist. A dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt can introduce a tangy creaminess, while a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese offers a savory umami kick. When it comes to customizing this sweet potato mash, the possibilities are truly endless, allowing you to create a unique dish every time.
Another fantastic advantage of this sweet potato mash is its excellent keeping quality. It stores beautifully in the fridge for several days, making it an ideal candidate for meal prepping. Consider making a double batch early in the week and enjoy it in various ways—as a simple side, layered into a shepherd’s pie, or even pan-fried into delicious sweet potato cakes. This flexibility ensures you always have a healthy, flavorful option readily available.
If you’re a potato lover always on the lookout for new and exciting potato side dishes, you’ll adore these other recipes from our collection. Expand your potato repertoire with Baked Sweet Potato Chips for a crispy alternative, indulge in the classic richness of Potatoes Au Gratin, or try something truly unique with our Reuben Stuffed Baked Potatoes. Each offers a distinct way to enjoy the beloved potato.
Essential Ingredients for Savory Instant Pot Sweet Potatoes
Unlike the traditional, often overly sweet sweet potato casseroles laden with marshmallows, this recipe focuses on a rich, savory flavor profile. This approach highlights the natural sweetness and earthy notes of the sweet potatoes, deepened by the addition of fresh garlic and herbs. The result is a healthy side dish that truly satisfies without leaving you feeling guilty. Every ingredient plays a crucial role in building this depth of flavor, making it a perfect wholesome addition to any meal.
For a complete list of ingredients and detailed instructions, please refer to the printable recipe card further down this page.
- Sweet Potatoes: We recommend using about 2 pounds of sweet potatoes. Look for firm, unblemished sweet potatoes. For this recipe, they should be peeled and chopped into roughly 1-inch chunks to ensure even and quick cooking in the Instant Pot. The uniform size is key for achieving that perfectly tender consistency.
- Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves are highly recommended for their pungent, bright flavor that truly enhances the savory profile. If fresh isn’t available, jarred minced garlic can be used in a pinch, though the flavor will be milder.
- Water: Simple tap water is perfectly fine for steaming the sweet potatoes. However, for an extra layer of flavor, consider using half water and half vegetable or chicken broth. This small adjustment can significantly boost the overall savory depth of the mash.
- Milk: We use whole milk for a rich and creamy texture. The higher the fat content, the creamier and more luxurious your sweet potato mash will be. Feel free to use 2% or skim milk if preferred, but note that the richness will decrease. For a dairy-free or vegan option, unsweetened almond milk, oat milk, or coconut milk (from a carton, not canned for a less pronounced coconut flavor) will also work beautifully.
- Butter: Unsalted butter allows you to control the total salt content of your dish. If using salted butter, simply adjust the amount of added salt accordingly. Butter is essential for that signature buttery flavor and smooth texture.
- Salt and Pepper: These fundamental seasonings are crucial for balancing and enhancing all the other flavors. We prefer sea salt for its clean taste and freshly ground black pepper for its aromatic zing. Adjust quantities to your personal taste preferences.
- Fresh Parsley: Freshly chopped parsley adds a bright, herbaceous note and a pop of color, making the dish visually appealing and fresh-tasting. While dried parsley can be used, it won’t offer the same vibrant flavor or texture. Beyond parsley, don’t hesitate to experiment with other fresh herbs like fresh thyme, chives, or even finely chopped sage for different aromatic twists that complement sweet potatoes wonderfully.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Make Instant Pot Sweet Potato Mash
Making this creamy sweet potato mash in your Instant Pot is incredibly straightforward. Follow these simple steps for a perfect outcome every time:
First, Prepare Your Sweet Potatoes: Begin by thoroughly washing your sweet potatoes. Then, peel them using a vegetable peeler and chop them into uniform 1-inch chunks. Consistency in size is important here, as it ensures all pieces cook evenly and become perfectly tender.
Load the Instant Pot: Place the chopped sweet potato cubes, whole peeled garlic cloves, and the measured water into the inner pot of your Instant Pot.
Next, Pressure Cook: Secure the lid on your Instant Pot, making sure it’s properly aligned, and set the steam release valve to the “Sealing” position. Select the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” setting and set the cooking time to 6 minutes on high pressure. Once the cooking cycle is complete, perform a quick release of the pressure by carefully moving the steam release valve to the “Venting” position. Stand back and allow all the steam to escape before opening the lid.
Dry and Drain (if necessary): Once the pressure has been fully released and you can safely open the lid, remove it. If there’s a significant amount of liquid remaining, set your Instant Pot to the “Sauté” function. Allow the remaining water to boil off for about 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally. This step is crucial for preventing soggy mashed sweet potatoes, ensuring a rich and concentrated flavor. Once the excess water has evaporated, press “Cancel” to stop the Instant Pot.
Then, Mash to Perfection: Add the butter, salt, pepper, and milk directly into the Instant Pot with the cooked sweet potatoes. Using a sturdy potato masher, begin mashing everything together. Continue mashing until your desired consistency is reached. Some prefer a slightly rustic mash with small lumps, while others aim for a completely smooth and creamy texture.
Expert Tip for Ultra-Creamy Mash: For a truly silky-smooth and lump-free sweet potato mash, consider using a hand mixer. It speeds up the process significantly and ensures a wonderfully consistent, creamy texture that rivals any restaurant dish. Just be careful not to overmix, which can sometimes lead to a gummy texture.
If you prefer an even looser or creamier mash, you can always add a little more milk, one tablespoon at a time, until you achieve your ideal consistency. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed, adding more salt or pepper if desired.
Finally, Serve and Enjoy: Transfer your beautifully mashed sweet potatoes to a serving bowl. Garnish generously with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and fresh flavor, and a pat of extra butter, if you’re feeling indulgent. Serve immediately and savor the rich, comforting taste!
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If you’re as excited about this incredible **mashed sweet potato recipe** as we are, don’t let it get lost in your endless recipe scrolls! Make sure to save it for later by pinning it to your favorite Pinterest recipe board before you go. This way, you’ll always have this fantastic Instant Pot side dish at your fingertips whenever the craving strikes or a special meal calls for it!
Frequently Asked Questions About Instant Pot Mashed Sweet Potatoes
How do you make mashed sweet potatoes quickly?
The quickest and easiest way to achieve perfectly mashed sweet potatoes is by using a pressure cooker, specifically an Instant Pot. Unlike boiling on the stovetop, which can sometimes lead to waterlogged potatoes, the Instant Pot steams them, locking in flavor and nutrients while significantly reducing cooking time. Simply follow this Instant Pot sweet potato mash recipe, and you’ll be enjoying creamy, flavorful sweet potatoes in a fraction of the time compared to traditional methods.
How do you make sweet potato mash without an Instant Pot?
If you don’t have an Instant Pot, you can still make delicious sweet potato mash on the stovetop. Start by peeling and cubing your sweet potatoes. Place them in a large pot, cover with cold water, and bring to a boil. Cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the sweet potato pieces are fork-tender. Drain the water thoroughly, then return the sweet potatoes to the warm pot. Mash them with a potato masher, then incorporate milk (or water/broth), butter, salt, and pepper until you reach your desired consistency.
How do you keep sweet potato mash from getting soggy?
To prevent your sweet potato mash from becoming soggy, especially after cooking in the Instant Pot or boiling, the key is to reduce excess moisture. After draining your sweet potatoes (if boiling), or after the Instant Pot cooking cycle, if there’s still a significant amount of liquid, return the cooked sweet potatoes to the warm pot (or Instant Pot on sauté mode for a few minutes). The residual heat will help evaporate any remaining surface water, concentrating the flavor and ensuring a drier, fluffier mash. You can also mash them while they are still warm, as they absorb butter and milk better.
Do I have to peel my sweet potatoes to make sweet potato mash?
Peeling sweet potatoes for mashed sweet potatoes is largely a matter of personal preference. The skin of sweet potatoes is edible and packed with nutrients and fiber. If you prefer a rustic mash with a bit more texture and nutritional boost, you can certainly leave the skin on. Just ensure they are thoroughly washed before cooking. However, for a smoother, creamier, and more refined mash, peeling them is recommended.
Can I make Instant Pot Mashed Sweet Potatoes ahead of time?
Absolutely! This dish is perfect for making ahead. Prepare the mashed sweet potatoes as directed, allow them to cool completely, then store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-5 days. To reheat, gently warm them on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk or broth to restore creaminess, or microwave in short bursts, stirring frequently.
What kind of sweet potatoes are best for mashing?
For mashed sweet potatoes, varieties like Beauregard, Jewel, or Garnet are excellent choices. They are known for their moist texture, vibrant orange flesh, and naturally sweet flavor, which becomes even more pronounced and creamy when mashed. Avoid drier varieties if you’re aiming for a very smooth consistency.
Creative Substitutions & Delicious Variations for Instant Pot Mashed Sweet Potatoes
This Instant Pot Mashed Sweet Potato recipe is a fantastic canvas for culinary creativity. Here are some ideas to adapt it to your taste or transform it into something new:
- Sweetened Version: If you prefer a more classic, sweeter mashed sweet potato, skip some of the savory herbs and instead, season with a touch of maple syrup, brown sugar, a pinch of cinnamon, or even a hint of nutmeg. These additions will create a wonderful sweet counterpart, especially perfect for holiday meals.
- Foundation for Casseroles & Cakes: Use this delicious mashed sweet potato base to create a savory sweet potato casserole, perhaps topped with a crunchy pecan crumble, or transform leftovers into delectable mashed potato cakes. Simply mix with an egg and a bit of flour, then pan-fry until golden brown for a fantastic breakfast or side.
- Dairy-Free Twist: For a delicious dairy-free alternative, replace regular milk with unsweetened coconut milk (from a carton, for a subtle flavor) or almond milk. Use a plant-based butter substitute to keep it entirely vegan without sacrificing creaminess. The subtle flavor of coconut milk can also add an intriguing tropical note.
- Spice It Up: For a kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce when mashing. A touch of smoked paprika can also add depth and warmth.
- Garlic Boost: If you’re a garlic enthusiast, feel free to add an extra clove or two to the Instant Pot. The slow cooking mellows the garlic, infusing the sweet potatoes with a deeper, more nuanced flavor.
Sweet Potato Mash: Expert Tips and Tricks for Success
- Storage Savvy: Leftover sweet potato mash can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. This makes it a fantastic make-ahead option for busy weeks or holiday meal prep.
- Freezer Friendly: For longer storage, you can freeze your mashed sweet potatoes! Simply allow the mash to cool completely, then portion it into freezer-safe zip-top bags or containers. Label and freeze for up to 6 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
- Always Be Prepared: Keep a few sweet potatoes on hand in your pantry. They have a good shelf life, ensuring you can whip up this delightful side dish whenever you need a quick, healthy, and flavorful addition to your meal.
- The Right Tools: While a sturdy fork can work in a pinch, investing in a good quality potato masher will make the mashing process much easier and more efficient, yielding a smoother result. For the ultimate creamy, lump-free mash, a hand mixer is your best friend – it makes the job super easy and yields consistently smooth results!
- Taste and Adjust: Always taste your mashed sweet potatoes before serving. Seasonings like salt and pepper are to taste, and you might find you need a little more or less depending on the sweetness of your potatoes and your personal preference.
More Irresistible Potato Dishes to Love
If you’re as passionate about potatoes as we are, you’ll love exploring these other fantastic potato-centric recipes that are perfect for any occasion:
- The Best Slow Cooker Mashed Potatoes (pictured above): This recipe is a game-changer for large holiday meals! Save precious stovetop space by letting your slow cooker handle the mashed potatoes, leaving you free to focus on other dishes. Creamy, delicious, and effortlessly made!
- Mashed Potato Bake: A comforting casserole featuring creamy mashed potatoes, often topped with crunchy French fried onions or cheese, baked until golden and bubbly. It’s an elevated take on a classic side.
- Loaded Mashed Potatoes: Imagine all the delicious toppings of a loaded baked potato – cheese, bacon, chives, sour cream – mixed right into your mashed potatoes. It’s an explosion of flavor in every spoonful!
- Mashed Potato Cakes: Don’t let leftover mashed potatoes go to waste! These crispy, savory cakes are a brilliant way to repurpose them into a delightful side, breakfast item, or snack.
- Cauliflower Mash: For a lighter, low-carb alternative that’s still incredibly creamy and satisfying, this cauliflower mash is a fantastic choice. It mimics the texture of mashed potatoes beautifully.
We’re thrilled to share these recipes with you! We have a treasure trove of side dish recipes here on our website, designed to complement any meal. This week, we’re even participating in a special event with fellow bloggers, sharing a variety of holiday side dish recipes all week long. Be sure to check out some of those fantastic recipes below to gather even more inspiration for your upcoming holiday meals!
The Instant Pot truly simplifies the process, yielding the best mashed sweet potatoes with a perfectly creamy consistency and rich flavor. The next time you’re looking for an effortless, vibrant, and incredibly delicious side dish, give this recipe a try. You’ll be amazed at how quickly and beautifully it comes together, becoming a cherished favorite in your recipe collection.
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Print Recipe
Instant Pot Sweet Potato Mash
Equipment
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12-Piece Black Sharp Knife Set with Covers, Cutting Board and Sharpener
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KitchenAid Hand Mixer
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KitchenAid Gourmet Stainless Steel Wire Masher
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Instant Pot DUO60 6 Qt 7-in-1 Multi-Use Programmable Pressure Cooker
Ingredients
- 2 pounds sweet potatoes peeled and chopped
- 2 cloves garlic whole, peeled
- 1/2 cup water
- 1/4 cup milk
- 3 Tablespoons butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley to taste
Instructions
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Add the sweet potatoes, garlic cloves, and water to the bowl of the instant pot.
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Cover and set the lid to “Sealing”.
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Pressure cook on high heat for 6 minutes, followed by a quick release.
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Once the pressure has been released, remove the lid and set the Instant Pot to “Sauté”.
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Let the remaining water boil off. This will take about 3-5 minutes or so.
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Press “Cancel” to stop the cooking.
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Add the butter, seasonings, and milk, and use a potato masher to mash everything together until the desired consistency is reached. More milk can be added if desired.
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Serve with freshly chopped parsley and extra butter.
Nutrition
Welcome to Holiday Side Dish Week 2022, proudly hosted by Heather from Hezzi-D’s Books and Cooks! This year, we’ve gathered an incredible collection of over 45 diverse side dish recipes, each designed to inspire and assist you in planning your most memorable holiday meals. From classic comforts to exciting new flavors, there’s something here for every palate and every festive spread.
Monday Holiday Side Dish Recipes:
- Baked Pineapple Casserole from Hezzi-D’s Books and Cooks
- Brown Butter Pumpkin Sage Pongal from Magical Ingredients
- Cauliflower Gratin from Palatable Pastime
- Cheesy Corn Casserole with Sage from Karen’s Kitchen Stories
- Crispy Skillet Stuffing from The Spiffy Cookie
- Easy Instant Pot Buttered Potatoes with Garlic and Parsley from Blogghetti
- Healthy Sweet Potato Casserole from Kathryn’s Kitchen Blog
- Instant Pot Sweet Potato Mash from An Affair from the Heart
- Loaded Sweet Potatoes au Gratin from A Kitchen Hoor’s Adventures
- Mushroom Gratin from Cheese Curd In Paradise
- Pecan Rice from A Day in the Life on the Far
- Smoked Mac and Cheese Casserole from Our Good Life
- Sweet Onion Pudding from A Little Fish in the Kitchen
- Sweet Potato Casserole from Hostess At Heart
- Tomato Parmesan Soup from Art of Natural Living
- Wild Rice and Cider Cranberry Pilaf from Sweet Beginnings