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Easy Mashed Sweet Potatoes

These Easy Mashed Sweet Potatoes are a creamy and comforting side dish featuring roasted garlic and mascarpone cheese, perfect for any occasion.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Side Dish
Cuisine: American
Calories: 250
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Garlic
  • 1 head garlic (whole, for roasting) Use fresh, firm garlic for a rich caramelized flavor.
  • olive oil (for garlic) Extra virgin olive oil enhances the taste.
For the Mashed Sweet Potatoes
  • 3 pounds sweet potatoes (peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes) Look for firm sweet potatoes without blemishes for the best texture.
  • ¾ to 1 cup mascarpone cheese (softened at room temperature, plus more to taste) BelGioioso is a great option for its creamy texture.
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted) Melt and let it cool slightly before adding to the mix.
  • ⅓ cup half-and-half (warmed up, plus more as needed, or heavy cream) For a richer flavor, use heavy cream instead of half-and-half.
  • Ground cinnamon (just a sprinkle for warmth) Adds a comforting touch; feel free to adjust to taste.
  • Salt and pepper (to taste) Don’t skip seasoning; it elevates the dish.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Slice off the top of the garlic head to expose the cloves, drizzle with olive oil, and wrap tightly in foil. Roast for 35-40 minutes until fragrant and soft, then set aside.
  2. While the garlic is roasting, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the cubed sweet potatoes and cook for 18 to 20 minutes until they're easily pierced by a fork. Drain well and transfer to a large bowl.
Mixing and Mashing
  1. Squeeze out the roasted garlic cloves into the bowl with the sweet potatoes. Add the softened mascarpone cheese, melted butter, and warmed half-and-half. Feel free to add a bit extra for a creamier texture.
  2. Using a potato masher, mash everything together until creamy and well-combined. Season with a sprinkle of ground cinnamon, salt, and pepper to taste.
Serving
  1. Top with a dollop of warm butter and, if desired, a drizzle of maple syrup for added sweetness. Enjoy while warm for the ultimate comfort experience!

Notes

Store leftover mashed potatoes in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days, or freeze for longer storage. Reheat gently. Avoid over boiling the sweet potatoes to maintain texture.