Are you looking for a simple yet impressive side dish that’s both healthy and incredibly flavorful? Look no further! This sweet potato cream cheese recipe is a delightful combination of creamy sweetness and tangy richness that will elevate any meal. Whether you're serving it as a sophisticated appetizer at your next gathering or adding a touch of elegance to your weeknight dinner, this recipe is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. It's one of those easy recipes that feels incredibly homemade and delicious.
Ingredients:
- 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 2 tablespoons milk (any kind)
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (optional, for added warmth)
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives or green onions (for garnish)
Instructions:
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Boil the Sweet Potatoes: Place the cubed sweet potatoes in a pot and cover with cold water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until tender when pierced with a fork. Drain well.
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Mash and Mix: While the sweet potatoes are still warm, transfer them to a large bowl. Add the softened cream cheese, milk, butter, salt, pepper, and nutmeg (if using). Mash everything together until smooth and creamy. If you prefer a chunkier texture, you can leave some of the sweet potato pieces intact.
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Season and Serve: Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. You might want to add a pinch more salt, pepper, or nutmeg depending on your preference. Transfer the sweet potato cream cheese mixture to a serving bowl. Garnish with fresh chives or green onions. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Tips for the Best Sweet Potato Cream Cheese:
- Choose the right sweet potatoes: Look for firm, smooth sweet potatoes without any bruises. The size doesn't matter too much, just ensure they are roughly the same size so they cook evenly.
- Don't overcook the sweet potatoes: Overcooked sweet potatoes can become mushy. Aim for tender but not falling-apart consistency.
- Soften the cream cheese: Make sure your cream cheese is softened to room temperature for easy mixing. You can achieve this by leaving it out at room temperature for about 30 minutes before starting the recipe.
- Get creative with seasonings: Experiment with different spices and herbs! A dash of cinnamon, a sprinkle of paprika, or some chopped fresh rosemary would all complement the sweet potato beautifully.
Variations:
- Spicy Sweet Potato Cream Cheese: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce for a spicy kick.
- Roasted Sweet Potato Cream Cheese: For a deeper, richer flavor, roast the sweet potatoes in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 30-40 minutes before mashing.
- Herby Sweet Potato Cream Cheese: Incorporate other fresh herbs like parsley, thyme, or dill for a fragrant twist.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This recipe makes about 4 servings. Nutritional values will vary slightly based on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 200-250
- Fat: 15-20g
- Protein: 5-7g
- Carbohydrates: 15-20g
- Fiber: 3-4g
This sweet potato cream cheese is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed as a side dish with roasted chicken, fish, or pork. It also makes a delicious appetizer served with crackers, toasted baguette slices, or even crudités. This simple recipe is perfect for busy weeknights and is a fantastic way to add a healthy and flavorful element to your meals. Enjoy your delicious homemade creation!