Grilled sweet potatoes are a tasty and easy side dish that everyone will love! They turn soft and slightly caramelized when cooked on the grill, making them sweet and delicious.
I usually sprinkle some salt and pepper on mine, and they are perfect for summer barbecues! Plus, grilling brings out the best flavors – it’s like magic! ✨
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Sweet Potatoes: Sweet potatoes are naturally sweet and perfect for grilling. If you can’t find them, try using butternut squash or regular potatoes. They won’t have the same sweetness but will give a nice texture.
Olive Oil: Olive oil adds flavor and helps achieve grill marks. If you’re looking for a different taste, you can swap it for avocado oil or even melted coconut oil. Both work well for grilling.
Garlic Powder and Smoked Paprika: These spices boost the flavor. If you prefer fresh garlic, use minced garlic instead of powder—just be careful not to burn it on the grill. For paprika, regular paprika can be used instead of smoked if you don’t have it on hand.
Fresh Herbs: Garnishing with herbs like parsley or cilantro adds freshness. Basil or green onions can be nice substitutes if you want a different flavor.
How Can I Grill Sweet Potatoes Perfectly?
Grilling sweet potatoes may seem tricky, but it’s all about preparation and timing. First, ensure your sweet potatoes are cut evenly to cook uniformly. I recommend keeping the slices around 1/4 inch thick for the best results.
- Heat your grill to medium-high to get it nice and hot.
- When tossing sweet potatoes in oil and spices, make sure they are well coated. It helps them grill better and enhances flavor.
- Grill them on each side for 4-5 minutes. Keep an eye on them; you want fork-tender with those great grill marks.
Let them sit for a couple of minutes after grilling to cool slightly before serving. Trust me, they’ll taste even better! Enjoy your delicious grilled sweet potatoes!
How to Make Grilled Sweet Potatoes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 medium 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 (e.g., parsley or cilantro, optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This easy recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and around 10-15 minutes for grilling. In total, you’ll be ready to enjoy your grilled sweet potatoes in just about 25 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Grill:
Start by heating your grill to medium-high heat. This ensures that your sweet potatoes will cook evenly and develop those beautiful grill marks.
2. Prepare the Sweet Potatoes:
Next, wash and peel the sweet potatoes. Once they’re clean, slice them into thin rounds, about ¼ inch thick. Keeping the slices uniform helps them cook evenly.
3. Season the Sweet Potatoes:
In a large bowl, combine the sweet potato slices with the olive oil, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika (if you’re using it). Toss everything well so that each slice is nicely coated with the seasoning.
4. Grill the Sweet Potatoes:
Carefully arrange the sweet potato slices in a single layer on the grill grate or place them on a grill mat. Make sure they don’t overlap, so they cook properly. Grill them for about 4-5 minutes on each side until they are tender and have lovely grill marks.
5. Rest and Serve:
Once they are cooked, remove the sweet potatoes from the grill and let them rest for a couple of minutes. This helps them finish cooking and makes them easier to handle. If you like, sprinkle some fresh herbs on top for garnish before serving warm as a delicious side dish. Enjoy your grilled sweet potatoes!
Can I Use Other Types of Potatoes Instead of Sweet Potatoes?
Yes, you can use regular potatoes like Yukon gold or red potatoes! However, keep in mind that cooking times may vary, so adjust accordingly and check for tenderness. You might also want to reduce the cooking time a bit since they tend to cook faster than sweet potatoes.
What If I Don’t Have a Grill?
No worries! You can also cook these sweet potatoes on a stovetop grill pan or bake them in the oven. If using an oven, lay the slices on a baking sheet and bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through for even cooking.
How to Store Leftover Grilled Sweet Potatoes
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply warm them in the microwave or toss them back on a hot skillet for a few minutes until heated through.
Can I Add Other Seasonings or Toppings?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with your favorite spices or herbs. Chili powder or cumin can add a nice kick, and adding a sprinkle of feta cheese or a drizzle of balsamic glaze before serving can elevate the flavors even more!
