Grilled sweet potatoes are a tasty side dish that brings out their natural sweetness. With a smoky flavor and a crispy outside, they are perfect for any cookout!
They’re super easy to make! Just slice them up, toss with some oil and spices, and grill until they’re tender. I love how they pair with everything—who can resist that nice char? 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Sweet Potatoes: These are the star of the dish! Look for firm, smooth sweet potatoes for the best flavor. If sweet potatoes are out of season, you can use butternut squash or regular potatoes as alternatives.
Olive Oil: I love olive oil for its health benefits and flavor. You can substitute it with avocado oil or melted coconut oil if you prefer. Both options work well for grilling.
Smoked Paprika: This is optional, but it adds a nice smoky flavor. If you don’t have it, you could use regular paprika or leave it out entirely; the sweet potatoes are delicious on their own!
Fresh Herbs: Parsley or cilantro adds a burst of color and freshness. If you don’t have these, consider using chives or green onions as a pleasant alternative.
How Do I Grill Sweet Potatoes Perfectly?
Grilling sweet potatoes is easy with the right techniques. The key is to prepare them properly to ensure they cook evenly and develop a nice char.
- Preheat your grill to medium heat. This helps achieve great grill marks without burning.
- Slice the sweet potatoes thinly, about 1/4 inch. Thin slices cook evenly and faster, making them tender.
- Toss the slices in olive oil and seasonings in a bowl. This coating helps prevent sticking and adds flavor.
- Place the slices in a single layer on the grill. Avoid overcrowding to allow even cooking.
- Monitor closely! Grill for 3-5 minutes per side until they’re tender and nicely charred.
How to Make Grilled Sweet Potatoes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 large sweet potatoes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional for added flavor)
- Fresh herbs (like parsley or cilantro) for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and around 10 minutes to grill. So, in total, you’ll spend about 20 minutes bringing these delicious grilled sweet potatoes to life! Quick and tasty!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Grill:
Start by heating your grill to medium heat. This will get your grill ready for the sweet potatoes, ensuring they cook evenly and get those lovely grill marks.
2. Prepare the Sweet Potatoes:
Peel the sweet potatoes carefully and slice them into thin rounds, about ¼ inch thick. This thickness helps them cook evenly on the grill, so keep the slices consistent.
3. Season the Sweet Potatoes:
In a large bowl, add your sweet potato slices. Drizzle the olive oil over them, then sprinkle with salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika if you’re using it. Toss everything gently until the sweet potatoes are nicely coated with the oil and spices.
4. Grill the Sweet Potatoes:
Now it’s time to grill! Place the sweet potato slices on the grill in a single layer. Grill them for about 3-5 minutes on one side until you see those beautiful grill marks and they start to soften. Flip each slice and grill for an additional 3-5 minutes on the other side until they’re tender and charred to your liking.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Once your sweet potatoes are perfectly grilled, take them off the grill. Serve them warm, and if you’d like, sprinkle some fresh herbs on top for an added pop of color and flavor. Enjoy your delicious grilled sweet potatoes!
Can I Use Other Types of Potatoes?
Yes! While sweet potatoes are the star of this recipe, you can substitute them with regular potatoes like Yukon Gold or red potatoes. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary, so check for tenderness as you grill.
How to Store Leftover Grilled Sweet Potatoes?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can microwave them or warm them back up on the grill for a few minutes to get that nice char again!
Can I Make These Sweet Potatoes Spicier?
Absolutely! If you want a kick, add some cayenne pepper or chili powder to the seasoning mix. Start with a small amount and adjust to your spice preference!
What Can I Serve with Grilled Sweet Potatoes?
Grilled sweet potatoes pair beautifully with a variety of dishes! Consider serving them alongside grilled meats, such as chicken or fish, or add them to salads for a sweet and smoky flavor. They also make a great addition to grain bowls!
