Grilled sweet potatoes are a tasty and healthy side dish. They get perfectly charred on the outside while staying soft and sweet inside. Yum!
I love tossing them on the grill for that smoky flavor. Plus, they’re so easy to make—just slice, season, and grill. Perfect for summer cookouts!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Sweet Potatoes: These are the star of the dish, bringing a natural sweetness and vibrant color. If you can’t find large sweet potatoes, butternut squash is a great alternative. It offers a similar texture and flavor when grilled.
Olive Oil: This adds flavor and helps with grilling. You can substitute avocado oil if you want a higher smoke point or if you prefer a more neutral taste.
Garlic Powder and Smoked Paprika: These add depth to the dish. If you want a fresh flavor, substitute with minced garlic and regular paprika. Both will work well but will change the flavor slightly.
Fresh Herbs: While optional, herbs like parsley or cilantro make a lovely garnish. If you don’t have fresh herbs, you can use dried herbs—but use less, as dried herbs are much stronger in flavor.
How Do I Grill Sweet Potatoes Without Them Sticking?
Grilling sweet potatoes can be tricky as they tend to stick. Here’s how to prevent that and achieve perfect grill marks:
- Preheat the grill to medium-high heat before cooking.
- Always oil the grill grates lightly using a paper towel dipped in oil. This creates a barrier.
- Ensure your sweet potato slices are evenly coated with olive oil. This will help them brown and prevent sticking.
- Do not overcrowd the grill. Leave space between slices for even cooking and flipping.
These tips will help you achieve tasty grilled sweet potatoes with great texture and flavor. Enjoy your grilling adventure!
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 garlic powder (optional)
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- Fresh herbs for garnish (optional, such as parsley or cilantro)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and 15 minutes to grill. So, you’ll be enjoying delicious grilled sweet potatoes in about 25 minutes total! Perfect for a quick side dish.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Grill:
Start by preheating your grill to medium-high heat. This ensures that your sweet potatoes cook evenly and get a nice char on them.
2. Prepare the Sweet Potatoes:
Wash and peel the sweet potatoes carefully. Then, slice them into thin rounds, aiming for about ¼ inch thick. Thin slices will cook faster and become wonderfully tender on the grill.
3. Season the Sweet Potatoes:
In a large bowl, toss the sweet potato slices with the olive oil, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika (if you’re using it). Make sure every slice gets a nice coat of the seasoning; this will add so much flavor!
4. Get the Grill Ready:
Lightly oil the grill grates with a paper towel dipped in oil. This helps prevent the sweet potatoes from sticking while they cook.
5. Grill the Sweet Potatoes:
Carefully place the seasoned sweet potato slices directly onto the grill. Cook them for about 3-5 minutes on each side. Keep an eye on them; you want them to be tender with lovely grill marks!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Once they’re done, carefully remove the grilled sweet potatoes from the grill and arrange them on a serving platter. If you like, sprinkle some fresh herbs on top for a pop of color and flavor. Serve warm as a tasty side dish or a healthy snack. Enjoy your delightful grilled sweet potatoes!
Can I Use Other Types of Potatoes for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use other types of potatoes like Yukon Gold or red potatoes, but keep in mind that cooking times may vary. They typically take a bit longer to grill, so adjust accordingly and check for tenderness as you cook.
How Can I Make These Sweet Potatoes Spicier?
If you want an extra kick, you can add cayenne pepper or chili powder to the seasoning mix. Start with 1/4 teaspoon and adjust to your taste. You can also sprinkle with red pepper flakes before serving for added heat!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftover Grilled Sweet Potatoes?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop them in the microwave or sauté them in a pan for a few minutes until heated through.
Can I Prep Sweet Potatoes Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can wash, peel, and slice the sweet potatoes up to a day in advance. Just keep them in a bowl of cold water in the fridge to prevent browning. When you’re ready to grill, drain and pat them dry before seasoning.
