Grilled sweet potatoes are a simple and tasty side dish! Just slice them up, toss with a little oil, and grill until they’re nice and tender with a bit of char.
These sweet potatoes are sweet and smoky, making them a crowd-pleaser. I love to pair them with burgers or just enjoy them on their own with a sprinkle of salt!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Sweet Potatoes: These are the stars of the dish! Look for medium-sized ones with smooth skin. If they’re not available, yams are a decent substitute, though they have a different flavor.
Olive Oil: This not only helps with grilling but also adds flavor. If you’re looking for a different taste, avocado oil works well, or even melted coconut oil for a unique twist.
Salt and Pepper: Basic seasonings! Feel free to use sea salt for a crispier texture or a herb-infused salt for more flavor. Pepper is great, but if you want some heat, consider adding cayenne instead.
Paprika: While it’s optional, it brings a sweet smokiness. If you don’t have paprika, a pinch of chili powder or curry powder can add an interesting twist.
Fresh Herbs: They brighten up the dish! Parsley or cilantro are my go-tos. You can also use fresh thyme or basil depending on what you have on hand.
How Do I Get Perfect Grill Marks on My Sweet Potatoes?
Getting those attractive grill marks and ensuring the sweet potatoes are tender is all about technique! Start by preheating your grill properly.
- Preheat your grill to medium heat (around 375°F/190°C) to get the right cooking temperature.
- Slice sweet potatoes into thin rounds (about 1/4 inch) for quicker, even cooking.
- Oil the grill grates lightly to prevent sticking; this also helps achieve those nice marks.
- Grill the slices in a single layer for about 4-5 minutes before flipping. Avoid overcrowding—give them space!
- When flipping, use tongs carefully to keep the shape intact; grill for an additional 4-5 minutes.
With these tips, you’ll have beautifully grilled sweet potatoes every time! Enjoy the deliciousness!
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 paprika (optional)
- Fresh herbs for garnish (such as parsley or cilantro, optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 10 minutes to prepare and around 10 minutes to grill. In total, you can enjoy tasty grilled sweet potatoes in about 20 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Grill:
Start by heating your grill to medium heat, which is around 375°F (190°C). This ensures the sweet potatoes cook evenly and get those lovely grill marks.
2. Prepare the Sweet Potatoes:
Wash and peel your sweet potatoes to remove any skin. Then, slice them into thin rounds, about ¼ inch thick. This thickness helps them grill perfectly without burning.
3. Season the Slices:
In a large bowl, toss the sweet potato slices with olive oil, making sure each slice is nicely coated. Add in the salt, black pepper, and paprika (if you’re using it) and toss everything together again for even flavor distribution.
4. Get the Grill Ready:
Lightly grease the grill grates with oil or a cooking spray to help prevent the sweet potatoes from sticking. This makes the flipping process much easier!
5. Grill the Sweet Potatoes:
Place the sweet potato slices on the grill in a single layer, making sure they’re not overlapping. Grill for about 4-5 minutes on one side until you see grill marks and the potatoes become tender. Time to flip!
6. Flip and Finish Grilling:
Carefully flip the sweet potato slices and grill for another 4-5 minutes on the other side. You’re looking for a nice char and that they’re fully tender. Enjoy the aromas as they cook!
7. Serve Up!
Once done, remove the sweet potatoes from the grill and transfer them to a serving platter. They’re looking delicious already!
8. Garnish (Optional):
If you like, sprinkle some fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro on top for a pop of color and flavor. Serve these grilled sweet potatoes as a delightful side or enjoy them as a tasty snack. Bon appétit!
Can I Use Other Types of Potatoes?
Absolutely! While sweet potatoes are the star of this recipe, you can use other potatoes like Yukon Gold or red potatoes. Just note that cooking times may vary slightly, so keep an eye on them to ensure they don’t overcook.
How Can I Make These Grilled Sweet Potatoes Spicier?
If you want to add some heat, consider mixing cayenne pepper or chili powder into your seasoning blend. You can also marinate the sweet potato slices in a dash of hot sauce for a kick before grilling!
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 place them in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, or you can pop them in the microwave for 1-2 minutes.
Can I Prep Sweet Potatoes Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can slice the sweet potatoes and toss them with olive oil and seasonings a few hours in advance. Just cover them and store the bowl in the fridge until you’re ready to grill. This will save you time when you’re ready to cook!
