These Chipotle Mashed Sweet Potatoes are creamy, dreamy, and have a spicy kick! Made with sweet potatoes and a hint of chipotle, they are fun to whip up and delicious to eat!
I love serving them on the side for dinner, and they always get smiles! Plus, they are easy to make—just mash, mix, and enjoy that warm, comforting flavor. Sweet potato power! 🥔✨
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Sweet Potatoes: These are the star of the dish! Look for firm, smooth potatoes. If you want a lighter option, you could substitute with regular potatoes, but the flavor won’t be quite the same.
Butter: I recommend using unsalted butter to control the salt level. For a dairy-free version, try olive oil or coconut oil instead; they will add a different flavor but still be delicious!
Milk: Whole or 2% milk works best for creaminess. If you’re lactose intolerant, feel free to use almond, oat, or soy milk for a dairy-free alternative.
Chipotle Peppers: These add a great smoky flavor! If you don’t like it too spicy, start with just one pepper, and adjust according to your taste. For less heat, a pinch of smoked paprika can be a good substitute.
Cumin: This gives a warm flavor to the dish. If you don’t have cumin, you can skip it or use a little chili powder for similar warmth.
How Do I Get the Perfectly Creamy Texture?
Getting that creamy smooth texture for your mashed sweet potatoes is all about technique! First, make sure your sweet potatoes are well-cooked; you want them fork-tender, not mushy.
- After draining, return sweet potatoes to the pot so they can dry out a bit. This prevents excess water from making your mash watery.
- Using a potato masher or ricer is best for a fluffy texture. A hand mixer can also work, but be careful not to over-mix, or they could become gummy.
- Incorporate the milk and butter slowly. Start with half and then add more as needed, adjusting to your desired creaminess.
With these tips, your mashed sweet potatoes will be a hit at any meal! Enjoy!
Chipotle Mashed Sweet Potatoes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Mashed Sweet Potatoes:
- 2 pounds sweet potatoes (about 3-4 medium), peeled and cut into chunks
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1/3 cup milk (whole or 2%)
- 1-2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon adobo sauce (from the chipotle peppers can)
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Chopped fresh cilantro or parsley, for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 30 minutes in total. You’ll spend about 10 minutes preparing the sweet potatoes and the rest cooking and mashing them to perfection!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cooking the Sweet Potatoes:
Start by placing the sweet potato chunks in a large pot and cover them with cold water. Bring the water to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium and let them simmer until they are tender, which should take about 15-20 minutes. You can test them by piercing them with a fork; they should be very soft!
2. Draining and Preparing:
Once the sweet potatoes are soft, drain them well using a colander. Return the sweet potatoes to the pot or transfer them to a large mixing bowl. This will help them steam a little and prevent excess moisture.
3. Blending the Chipotle Mixture:
In a blender or food processor, combine the milk, butter, chipotle peppers, adobo sauce, and ground cumin. Blend the mixture until it’s smooth and creamy. This will give your mashed sweet potatoes that lovely flavor kick!
4. Mashing the Sweet Potatoes:
Now pour the creamy chipotle mixture over the warm sweet potatoes. Use a potato masher or a hand mixer to mash the potatoes until they are smooth and creamy. Don’t forget to add salt and pepper to taste, adjusting as needed!
5. Serving:
Transfer your delicious mashed sweet potatoes to a serving bowl. If you like, garnish them with chopped fresh cilantro or parsley for a pop of color and extra flavor!
6. Enjoy!
Serve these warm and enjoy the silky, spicy, and smoky flavor that will elevate any meal!
Can I Use Other Types of Potatoes?
While sweet potatoes are recommended for their natural sweetness and flavor, you can use regular potatoes if you prefer. Just keep in mind that the taste and texture will be different, and you may want to adjust the seasonings accordingly.
How Can I Adjust the Spice Level?
You can easily modify the spice level by adjusting the number of chipotle peppers used in the recipe. Start with one pepper, taste, and then add more if you like it spicier. Alternatively, omit the chipotle altogether and use smoked paprika for a milder flavor.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the mashed sweet potatoes ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk if needed to regain creaminess.
What Should I Serve with Chipotle Mashed Sweet Potatoes?
These mashed sweet potatoes pair well with roasted meats, grilled chicken, or even a nice vegetarian dish. They also make a great side for holiday meals, adding a unique twist to traditional fare!
