Purple Sweet Potato Mash Recipe: Vibrant, Velvety, and Surprisingly Simple

If you’re looking to brighten up your plate and enjoy a sweet, earthy twist on a classic side dish, purple sweet potato mash is the way to go. Naturally vibrant in color and loaded with nutrients, this recipe turns humble sweet potatoes into a show-stopping comfort food. Whether you’re serving it for a holiday feast or an everyday meal, this creamy mash delivers on flavor, texture, and looks.

This guide will walk you through how to make creamy mashed purple sweet potatoes with just a handful of ingredients. Perfectly buttery, subtly sweet, and easy to customize with your favorite mix-ins or toppings.

How to Make Purple Sweet Potato Mash

This simple recipe blends steamed purple sweet potatoes with butter, cream, and seasoning to create a smooth, decadent mash that’s as delicious as it is colorful.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients:

• 2 lbs purple sweet potatoes (also known as Okinawan or Stokes purple)

• 4 tbsp unsalted butter

• ½ cup heavy cream (or full-fat coconut milk for a dairy-free version)

• Salt to taste

• Freshly ground black pepper to taste

Optional Add-ins:

• 1 tbsp maple syrup (for a touch of sweetness)

• ½ tsp cinnamon or nutmeg (for warmth)

• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (for a savory finish)

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

Preparing Instructions

Step 1: Prep the Potatoes
Peel the purple sweet potatoes and cut them into evenly sized chunks.

Step 2: Steam Until Tender
Steam the potatoes over boiling water for 15–20 minutes, or until fork-tender. (Steaming helps preserve their bright color better than boiling.)

Step 3: Mash with Butter and Cream
Transfer hot potatoes to a large bowl. Add butter, cream, salt, and pepper. Mash with a potato masher or hand mixer until smooth and creamy. Add optional flavorings if desired.

Step 4: Taste and Adjust
Taste and adjust seasoning. Add a splash more cream if needed for desired consistency.

Servings

Serves 4 as a generous side dish.

Presentation & Decoration

Garnish Ideas:

• Swirl of cream or melted butter on top

• Chopped herbs like chives or parsley for contrast

• Sprinkle of toasted nuts for crunch

Serving Suggestions:

• Perfect alongside roasted chicken or grilled salmon

• A colorful alternative on your Thanksgiving table

• Serve in ramekins for individual portions

Best Time to Eat

Holiday Side Dish: Adds a pop of color and flavor to your festive meals
Everyday Dinner: Pairs beautifully with protein and greens
Meal Prep Staple: Keeps well for reheating throughout the week

Portion Guide

Individual: About ¾ to 1 cup per serving
Group: Double the recipe for 8 servings

Storage & Shelf Life

Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days
Freezing: Freeze in portions for up to 1 month (texture may change slightly)
Reheating: Reheat gently on the stove or microwave, stirring in a splash of cream if neededAllergy Guide

Gluten-Free: Naturally gluten-free
Dairy-Free: Use coconut milk and vegan butter
Nut-Free: Naturally nut-free

More Purple Potato Recipes

• Purple Sweet Potato Gnocchi: Soft pillows of vibrant color

• Purple Potato Chips: Crispy, salty, and oven-baked

• Purple Sweet Potato Pie: A colorful twist on a Southern classic

Tag your creations with show us how you made this vivid side dish your own! You might just inspire our next delicious feature.