Grilled sweet potatoes are a tasty and easy side dish that you can make on the grill. They get a nice caramelized flavor that makes them extra special!
It’s amazing how a bit of seasoning and grilling can turn sweet potatoes into a star of the meal. I love serving them with a sprinkle of salt and a dash of pepper—yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Sweet Potatoes: These are the star of the dish! I recommend choosing firm, smooth sweet potatoes without any blemishes. If you can’t find sweet potatoes, you could use regular potatoes, but they will have a different flavor and texture.
Olive Oil: Olive oil adds richness and helps the spices stick. If you want a different flavor, you can substitute with avocado oil or melted coconut oil. Both will still give a nice finish to the dish!
Smoked Paprika: This ingredient gives a wonderful smoky flavor! If you don’t have smoked paprika, regular paprika works fine, or you could use chili powder for a little more heat and flavor.
Garlic Powder: Garlic powder is convenient and adds a nice flavor. If you prefer fresh garlic, you can use about 1-2 cloves minced. Just be careful not to burn it while grilling!
Fresh Herbs: Adding herbs like parsley or cilantro at the end gives a pop of color and freshness! Feel free to use whatever fresh herbs you have on hand or enjoy the most.
How Do You Grill Sweet Potatoes Perfectly?
Getting the sweet potatoes just right on the grill is key! Here are some tips to ensure they turn out perfectly while grilling:
- First, slice the sweet potatoes into 1/4 inch rounds for even cooking; thicker slices may take longer.
- Make sure your grill is preheated to medium heat. This helps get those nice grill marks and prevents sticking.
- Using a grill basket or grill mat is super helpful. It keeps the sweet potatoes from falling through and makes turning them easier.
- Grill for 4-5 minutes on each side. Keep an eye on them; you want them tender and with nice char marks without burning.
Enjoy your grilling, and don’t rush this step! The caramelization from the grill adds amazing flavor.
How to Make Grilled Sweet Potatoes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Grilled Sweet Potatoes:
- 2 large sweet potatoes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: fresh herbs (such as parsley or cilantro) for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes to prepare and another 10-12 minutes to grill. So, in about 25-30 minutes, you’ll have some wonderfully grilled sweet potatoes ready to serve!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Sweet Potatoes:
Start by washing the sweet potatoes thoroughly to remove any dirt. Next, peel the skin off and slice the sweet potatoes into thin rounds, aiming for about 1/4 inch thick. This will help them cook evenly on the grill.
2. Make the Marinade:
In a large mixing bowl, pour in the olive oil and add the smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix everything together until it forms a nice, smooth marinade.
3. Coat the Sweet Potatoes:
Now, take your sweet potato slices and add them to the bowl with the marinade. Toss gently until each slice is well-coated with the mixture. This will give them a fantastic flavor while grilling!
4. Preheat the Grill:
While you’re prepping your sweet potatoes, go ahead and preheat your grill to medium heat. This ensures that your sweet potatoes get that perfect grilled texture.
5. Grill the Sweet Potatoes:
Once the grill is hot, place the marinated sweet potato slices directly onto the grill. If you have a grill basket or a grill mat, use those to make grilling easier and to prevent slices from falling through the grates.
6. Cooking Time:
Grill the sweet potatoes for about 4-5 minutes on one side. Then, carefully flip them over and grill for another 4-5 minutes on the other side. They should have beautiful grill marks and be tender when you poke them with a fork.
7. Serve and Garnish:
When the sweet potatoes are done, take them off the grill and arrange them on a serving platter. If you’d like, sprinkle some fresh herbs over the top for a colorful and tasty garnish before serving.
Enjoy your delicious grilled sweet potatoes!
Can I Use Other Types of Potatoes Instead of Sweet Potatoes?
Yes, you can use regular potatoes or other varieties like butternut squash for a different flavor! Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary, so check for tenderness as they grill.
How Should I Store Leftover Grilled Sweet Potatoes?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them on a baking sheet in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or until heated through, which helps retain their texture.
Can I Prepare the Sweet Potatoes Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can slice and marinate the sweet potato rounds a few hours in advance. Just cover and refrigerate them until you’re ready to grill. This can enhance the flavor as well!
What Can I Substitute for Olive Oil?
If you’re looking for an alternative, avocado oil or melted coconut oil both work well in this recipe. They provide similar richness and help with grilling without a change in flavor too much.