Grilled sweet potatoes are a delicious and versatile side dish that’s perfect for any occasion. They’re easy to make, packed with flavor, and always a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or just looking for a simple and satisfying weeknight meal, this guide will teach you how to grill sweet potatoes to sweet, smoky perfection.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Sweet potatoes are naturally sweet, but grilling them over an open flame brings out a whole new level of flavor. The high heat caramelizes the natural sugars, creating a crispy exterior and a soft and fluffy interior. Plus, grilling is a healthier cooking method compared to frying, as it requires less oil.
I remember the first time I grilled sweet potatoes; it was at a family barbecue, and everyone raved about them! I was surprised at how such a simple recipe could be so flavorful. Since then, grilled sweet potatoes have become a staple at our summer gatherings.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 2 large sweet potatoes (about 1 pound each)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Optional additions:
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon chili powder
Equipment
- Grill
- Sharp knife
- Cutting board
- Grill brush
- Tongs
How To Make Grilled Sweet Potatoes
- Prep the Grill: Preheat your grill to medium heat (about 350-400°F). Make sure to clean the grates with a grill brush to prevent sticking.
- Prepare the Sweet Potatoes: Wash and scrub the sweet potatoes thoroughly. Pat them dry with a clean towel.
- Slice the Sweet Potatoes: Cut the sweet potatoes lengthwise into 1/2-inch thick slices. If your sweet potatoes are very large, you may need to cut the slices in half again to ensure even cooking.
- Toss with Oil and Seasonings: In a large bowl, toss the sweet potato slices with olive oil, salt, and pepper. You can also add any optional seasonings at this point, such as garlic powder, smoked paprika, or chili powder for an extra kick.
- Grill the Sweet Potatoes: Place the sweet potato slices directly on the preheated grill grates. Grill for 5-7 minutes per side, or until they’re tender and have nice grill marks. You can check for doneness by piercing the thickest part with a fork – it should slide in easily.
- Serve and Enjoy: Remove the grilled sweet potatoes from the grill and serve them immediately. They make a fantastic side dish for grilled chicken, fish, or burgers.
Close-up shot of perfectly grilled sweet potato slices
Tips and Tricks for the Best Grilled Sweet Potatoes
- Soaking is Optional: Some recipes call for soaking the sweet potato slices in water for 30 minutes before grilling. This step is optional but can help to prevent the sweet potatoes from drying out on the grill.
- Use High Heat: Grilling over medium-high heat will give your sweet potatoes those beautiful caramelized grill marks and ensure they cook through evenly.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Grill: Make sure to leave some space between the sweet potato slices on the grill grates to allow for even cooking.
- Get Creative with Seasonings: Don’t be afraid to experiment with different flavor combinations! Try adding herbs like rosemary or thyme, or spices like cumin or coriander.
What to Serve with Grilled Sweet Potatoes
Grilled sweet potatoes are incredibly versatile and pair well with a variety of dishes. Here are a few ideas:
- Grilled Meats: They are a classic side dish for grilled chicken, steak, pork chops, or fish.
- Salads: Add some grilled sweet potato slices to your favorite salad for a touch of sweetness and a satisfying texture.
- Bowls: Grilled sweet potatoes make a delicious and nutritious addition to grain bowls, burrito bowls, or nourish bowls.
Grilled Sweet Potatoes Platter
FAQs About Grilling Sweet Potatoes
Q: Can I grill sweet potatoes whole?
A: While you can grill sweet potatoes whole, it takes much longer to cook them through. Slicing them into thinner pieces ensures they cook evenly and more quickly.
Q: How do I know when my grilled sweet potatoes are done?
A: Grilled sweet potatoes are done when they’re tender and easily pierced with a fork. The exterior should be slightly caramelized with grill marks.
Q: Can I store leftover grilled sweet potatoes?
A: Yes, you can store leftover grilled sweet potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They make a great addition to salads or bowls for a quick and easy meal.
Conclusion
There you have it – grilling sweet potatoes is as easy as it gets! With this simple guide and a few tips, you’ll be a grill master in no time. So fire up that grill, grab some sweet potatoes, and get ready to enjoy a side dish that’s both delicious and healthy. Don’t forget to check out our other delicious grilling recipes on Family Cuisine for more inspiration! Happy grilling!
If you give this recipe a try, be sure to leave a comment below and let us know how you liked it! We love hearing from our readers.
