Grilled sweet potatoes are a tasty side dish that’s easy to make! Simply cut them into thick slices, toss with some oil, and grill until they’re tender and slightly charred.
These sweet potatoes have a delicious caramelized flavor that everyone loves. I often grab some for my plate before they hit the serving dish—can you blame me? 😋
They’re fantastic with a sprinkle of salt and served alongside grilled meats or veggies. Plus, the sweet taste makes them a hit with kids and adults alike!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Sweet Potatoes: These are the star of the dish! Look for firm, smooth sweet potatoes. If you’re in a crunch, you can use yams or even butternut squash as alternatives. Each provides a slightly different flavor but will still taste great on the grill.
Olive Oil: This oil adds a lovely richness. If you need a different option, avocado oil is a great substitute, as it has a high smoke point and a mild flavor. You might also consider coconut oil for a unique touch!
Smoked Paprika: While optional, this spice gives a nice smoky flavor. If you don’t have it, regular paprika works too, or you could try a pinch of chili powder for a bit of a kick. I love using smoked paprika for extra depth.
Fresh Herbs: Parsley or cilantro adds freshness when garnishing. You could also use chives or green onions for a different vibe. I sometimes throw on some feta cheese for a tasty twist!
How Do You Cut Sweet Potatoes for Grilling?
Getting the sweet potatoes cut perfectly is crucial for even cooking. Aim for 1/4-inch thick rounds so they grill nicely. Here’s how to do it:
- Start by washing the sweet potatoes well, then peel them using a vegetable peeler.
- Now, place them on a cutting board and use a sharp knife to slice them evenly into rounds.
- Take your time to ensure you have consistent thickness; this helps with even grilling!
Even, uniform slices mean that’ll get that nice char on the grill without any raw sections. It’s worth the extra care!
How to Make Grilled Sweet Potatoes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Grilled Sweet Potatoes:
- 2 large sweet potatoes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Fresh herbs (e.g., parsley or cilantro) for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes of prep time and around 10 minutes of grilling time. So, you’ll be enjoying your delicious grilled sweet potatoes in about 25 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Grill:
First things first! Begin by preheating your grill to medium-high heat. This will get it nice and hot for cooking the sweet potatoes perfectly.
2. Prepare the Sweet Potatoes:
While your grill is heating up, wash and peel the sweet potatoes. Once they’re ready, slice them into rounds that are about 1/4-inch thick. This helps them cook evenly and become nice and tender.
3. Mix Seasonings:
In a large bowl, mix together the olive oil, smoked paprika (if you’re using it), garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. This is the delicious seasoning that will add flavor to your sweet potatoes. Toss the sweet potato slices in this mixture until they’re well coated with all those tasty spices.
4. Grill the Sweet Potatoes:
Now it’s time to grill! Place the seasoned sweet potato slices on the hot grill. Cook them for about 4-5 minutes on each side. You’re looking for nice grill marks and for them to be tender when you poke them with a fork.
5. Serving:
Once they’re cooked to perfection, carefully remove the sweet potatoes from the grill and arrange them on a serving platter. They smell amazing already!
6. Garnish & Enjoy:
If you like, sprinkle some fresh herbs on top for a burst of color and flavor. Serve the sweet potatoes warm and enjoy your delicious grilled treat!
Can I Use Other Types of Potatoes?
Absolutely! While sweet potatoes are delicious, you can use regular white or red potatoes. Just keep in mind that they might take a bit longer to cook, so check for tenderness after about 6-7 minutes on each side.
What If I Don’t Have Olive Oil?
No problem! You can substitute olive oil with any other cooking oil, such as canola, avocado, or grapeseed oil. Just avoid strong-flavored oils like peanut oil, which could alter the taste of the sweet potatoes.
How Can I Store Leftover Grilled Sweet Potatoes?
To store leftovers, let the sweet potatoes cool completely, then transfer them to an airtight container. They can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop them in the microwave or toss them back on the grill for a few minutes!
Can I Make These Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prep the sweet potatoes ahead of time! Slice and coat them with the oil and spices, then store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When ready to grill, just take them out, and they’ll be ready to go!
