The Very Best Sweet Potatoes/Yams

1. 1

   Set oven to 450 degrees. Rinse off potatoes, pierce with fork a few times, and place in the oven centered on the middle rack for 30 to 45 minutes, or until soft if you squeeze with your hand in an oven mitt. Take out and allow to cool.

2. 2

   Prepare a 9 x 12 baking dish (or a throwaway aluminum pan is nice-less clean up) with spray-on oil. Lower oven temperature to 375 degrees.

3. 3

   After potatoes are cool, peel and place in a large mixing bowl. Add butter, sour cream, 3/4 of the cheese and brown sugar, if desired (I don't usually add this). Season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix until mostly smooth. Pour into the pan, spread out and top with the remaining cheese. If there isn't enough, then shred some more until there is.

4. 4

   Bake at 375F for about 30 to 45 minutes or until bubbly. If you want-and I do-place under the broiler for the last 3 minutes for a crispy cheese topping.

5. 5

   This can be made ahead 24 hours and kept in the fridge. It may take a few more minutes to warm.

* Per serving · 4 servings · Values may vary.