Grilled sweet potatoes are a tasty and healthy side dish that everyone will enjoy. Simply slice them, toss with a little oil and seasoning, then grill until they’re tender and smoky!
You can serve them with burgers or just enjoy them on their own. Honestly, they’re like nature’s candy that you can feel good about eating. I can never make enough! 🍠🔥
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Sweet Potatoes: The star of this dish! Look for firm, smooth ones without blemishes. If you can’t find sweet potatoes, try using butternut squash. It’ll give a similar sweetness when grilled.
Olive Oil: This adds richness and helps with grilling. You could substitute with avocado oil for a higher smoke point or even coconut oil for a hint of tropical flavor.
Garlic Powder: It gives an aromatic flavor, but if you prefer, fresh minced garlic works just as well. Adjust the amount to your taste, since fresh can be stronger.
Smoked Paprika: This adds a nice smoky depth. If you don’t have it, regular paprika or even chili powder can work, but smoked will give the dish a unique twist.
How Can You Grill Sweet Potatoes to Perfection?
Grilling sweet potatoes can be tricky if you don’t prep them right. Start with even slicing – about 1/4-inch thick is perfect. This ensures they cook evenly. Here’s how to get the best results:
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat before placing the sweet potatoes on it. This helps to get those nice grill marks.
- Keep an eye on them while grilling. Depending on your grill, they may need adjusting to avoid burning. Flip them at around 4-5 minutes.
- Let them cool slightly after grilling. This helps improve their texture.
With these tips, you’ll have perfectly grilled sweet potatoes ready to be enjoyed!
How to Make Grilled Sweet Potatoes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 medium sweet potatoes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- Fresh herbs for garnish (e.g., parsley or cilantro)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of preparation and around 10-15 minutes for grilling. So, in total, you’re looking at about 30 minutes from start to finish. Quick and delicious!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Grill:
Get your grill ready by preheating it to medium-high heat. This will ensure your sweet potatoes cook evenly and get nice grill marks!
2. Prepare the Sweet Potatoes:
Wash and peel the sweet potatoes thoroughly. Once they’re cleaned up, slice them into rounds about 1/4-inch thick. This size is perfect for grilling and will help them cook through nicely.
3. Season the Sweet Potatoes:
In a large bowl, toss the sweet potato slices with olive oil, salt, black pepper, and if you’re using them, the garlic powder and smoked paprika. Mix everything together until the slices are evenly coated; this will add lots of flavor!
4. Grill the Sweet Potatoes:
Place the seasoned sweet potato slices on the grill in a single layer. Grill for about 4-5 minutes on each side. You want them to be nicely charred and tender—keep an eye on them so they don’t overcook!
5. Cool and Garnish:
After grilling, remove the sweet potatoes from the grill and let them cool slightly. This just takes a minute. Then, transfer them to a serving platter.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
If you like, sprinkle some fresh herbs over the top for a pop of color and extra flavor. Serve the grilled sweet potatoes warm as a tasty side dish, or chop them up and toss them into salads or grain bowls for a delicious meal addition!
Enjoy your flavorful grilled sweet potatoes!
Can I Use Other Types of Potatoes Instead of Sweet Potatoes?
Yes! While sweet potatoes give a unique flavor and sweetness, you can substitute them with regular potatoes, like Yukon Gold or red potatoes. Just adjust the cooking time, as regular potatoes may need a bit longer to cook through!
What If I Don’t Have a Grill? Can I Cook These in the Oven?
Absolutely! Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Place the seasoned sweet potato slices on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until tender and crispy on the edges.
How to Store Leftover Grilled Sweet Potatoes?
Store any leftover grilled sweet potatoes in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop them in the microwave for a minute or two, or re-grill them for a few minutes to regain that charred flavor!
Can I Prepare the Sweet Potatoes in Advance?
Yes! You can slice the sweet potatoes and toss them with olive oil and seasonings up to a day in advance. Just cover and refrigerate until you’re ready to grill. Make sure to let them come to room temperature before grilling for even cooking!
