Name: Grilled Sweet Potatoes for the Perfect Summer Side Dish
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 75 min
Total time: 90 min
Ingredients: 4 medium Sweet Potatoes (Choose potatoes that are roughly the same size for even cooking.); 1 teaspoon Kosher Salt (Enhances the sweet flavor of the potatoes.); 2 tablespoons Butter (Adds creaminess; substitute with olive oil for dairy-free.); 1 bunch Chopped Chives (Fresh and vibrant garnish.)

As the sun begins to cast golden rays over your backyard, the sizzle of food on the grill ignites anticipation for that first bite. That’s when I decided to take my summer cookouts to the next level with Grilled Sweet Potatoes—an incredibly easy yet versatile side that transforms any meal. These sweet stunners not only add a vibrant pop of color to your plate but also pack a nutritious punch, offering carbohydrates and fiber while keeping things gluten-free. With a smoky, crispy exterior and a soft, creamy inside, they’re the perfect vehicle for your favorite toppings, making them a crowd-pleaser at gatherings or a wholesome addition to quiet dinners. Ready to elevate your grilling game and impress your guests? Let’s dive into how to prepare these delectable potatoes!

Why Grilled Sweet Potatoes Are a Must-Try?

Incredible Flavor: The smoky flavor from the grill enhances the natural sweetness of the potatoes, creating a delicious contrast that will keep you coming back for more.

Nutritious & Guilt-Free: Enjoy these healthy, gluten-free side dishes without the guilt. Grilled Sweet Potatoes are loaded with vitamins and fiber, making them a perfect addition to any meal.

Versatile Options: The variety of toppings available lets you customize every serving. Whether you prefer a sprinkle of chives or a drizzle of chimichurri, the possibilities are endless!

Easy Preparation: With just a few simple steps, you can elevate your grilling experience while keeping your kitchen cool. Why not try pairing them with Parmesan Chicken Potatoes for a complete meal?

Crowd-Pleaser: These sweet potatoes are sure to impress your guests at summer cookouts. Their vibrant color and appealing texture will make them a highlight on your dining table.

Grilled Sweet Potatoes Ingredients

• Note: Here are the simple ingredients you’ll need for delicious Grilled Sweet Potatoes!

For the Sweet Potatoes

Medium Sweet Potatoes – Choose potatoes that are roughly the same size for even cooking.
Salt – Enhances the sweet flavor of the potatoes; kosher salt works best!
Butter – Adds a rich creaminess when melted; swap with olive oil for a dairy-free alternative.

For the Garnish

Chopped Chives – Fresh and vibrant, they elevate both the flavor and presentation of your dish.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Grilled Sweet Potatoes

Step 1: Preheat the Grill
Start by preheating your grill for indirect heat cooking. Aim for a temperature of 250°F, allowing the grill to warm up for about 10-15 minutes with the lid closed. This will create a stable cooking environment for your Grilled Sweet Potatoes, ensuring they cook evenly while developing that enticing smoky flavor.

Step 2: Prepare the Sweet Potatoes
Gently pierce each medium sweet potato with a knife several times to allow steam to escape during grilling. Rub the potatoes generously with kosher salt, which enhances their natural sweetness. Wrap each seasoned sweet potato loosely in foil, creating a tight pouch that will retain moisture and prevent burning while they grill.

Step 3: Grill the Potatoes at Low Temperature
Once your grill reaches the desired 250°F, carefully place the foil-wrapped sweet potatoes inside on one side, away from direct flames. Close the lid and let them cook for approximately 50-60 minutes. This low-and-slow approach ensures that the sweet potatoes become tender and creamy inside without burning the exterior.

Step 4: Increase the Temperature for Crisping
After an hour of cooking, increase the grill temperature to 400°F. Carefully unwrap the foil from the sweet potatoes, being cautious of the steam. Return the unwrapped sweet potatoes to the grill for an additional 15-25 minutes. This step allows their skins to crisp up beautifully, adding texture to your Grilled Sweet Potatoes.

Step 5: Check for Doneness
To ensure your grilled sweet potatoes are perfectly cooked, check their tenderness by inserting a fork or knife into the thickest part. They should feel soft and have an internal temperature of around 210°F. If they aren’t tender yet, continue grilling for another few minutes and check again until they reach the desired doneness.

Step 6: Serve with Your Favorite Toppings
Once your Grilled Sweet Potatoes are tender and perfectly cooked, remove them from the grill and let them cool slightly. Slice them open, then add a pat of butter for richness, a sprinkle of salt to elevate the flavors, and finish with a handful of freshly chopped chives for a burst of color and fresh taste.

What to Serve with Grilled Sweet Potatoes?

Ready to enhance your summer barbecue experience with perfect pairings that elevate grilled sweet potatoes to new heights?

Grilled Chicken: Juicy, tender chicken complements the sweet potatoes, creating a delightful contrast of flavors and textures that everyone loves.
Zesty Coleslaw: A crunchy, tangy slaw provides a refreshing bite, balancing the sweetness of the potatoes beautifully alongside grilled meats.
Corn on the Cob: Sweet, charred corn brings a seasonal freshness, enhancing the smoky flavor of the grilled sweet potatoes while keeping the summer vibe alive.
Quinoa Salad: Nutty quinoa mixed with fresh veggies offers a healthful, protein-packed side that pairs well with the rich flavors of sweet potatoes.
Grilled Shrimp Skewers: Simple yet elegant, these add a burst of flavor and a light touch, creating a sophisticated and satisfying summer platter.
Herbed Yogurt Dip: A creamy, tangy dip made with herbs brings an exciting flavor contrast to the sweetness, enhancing taste profiles and adding a touch of elegance.
Iced Lemonade: The refreshing citrus notes of cold lemonade cut through the richness, making it a perfect pairing for tender, smoky grilled sweet potatoes.

Grilled Sweet Potatoes Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to embrace your inner chef and customize these delicious grilled sweet potatoes to suit your taste preferences!

Dairy-Free: Substitute butter with extra-virgin olive oil for a rich, creamy flavor without the dairy. It’s a gorgeous twist that doesn’t compromise on taste!
Sweet & Spicy: Drizzle maple syrup and sprinkle chili flakes for a delightful combination of sweetness and heat. The melt-in-your-mouth potatoes with your favorite kick will surprise your taste buds!
Herb Infusion: Replace chives with fresh rosemary or thyme for a fragrant herb twist. This adds an aromatic touch that pairs beautifully with grilled meats.
Cinnamon-Sugar Bliss: Top the grilled potatoes with a mixture of brown sugar and cinnamon for a dessert-like experience. A hint of sweetness after a smoky grill will leave everyone craving more!
Creamy Topping: Upgrade with a dollop of Greek yogurt or sour cream adorned with chopped green onions. This creamy layer contrasts wonderfully with the sweet potatoes’ warm texture.
Tex-Mex Flair: Add a sprinkle of taco seasoning before grilling for a zesty flavor. Pair these sweet beauties with grilled corn or cilantro for a delightful fiesta on your plate!
Asian Inspiration: A drizzle of teriyaki sauce or sesame oil with a sprinkle of sesame seeds gives a unique flavor twist! The sweet and nutty combination will be a pleasant surprise for your guests. Consider serving alongside Crispy Sweet Potato Cubes for variety.
Chimichurri Delight: Top with homemade chimichurri sauce after grilling to brighten up the flavors. This vibrant herb sauce added at the end packs a punch that complements the smoky sweetness perfectly.

Make Ahead Options

These Grilled Sweet Potatoes are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time on busy weeknights! You can wash, pierce, and season the sweet potatoes, then wrap them in foil up to 24 hours in advance before grilling. To maintain their quality, refrigerate the wrapped potatoes until you’re ready to cook. When it’s time to serve, simply place the foil-wrapped potatoes on a preheated grill at 250°F and follow the cooking instructions as usual. Increase the temperature to 400°F after 60 minutes to crisp the skins, ensuring your sweet potatoes have that irresistible texture. Enjoy delicious, hassle-free results that will impress your family!

Expert Tips for Grilled Sweet Potatoes

Consistent Cooking: Use potatoes of similar size to ensure even cooking. This way, you won’t have some overcooked while others are still raw.
Perfect Salting: Be generous with kosher salt before wrapping the sweet potatoes in foil. It enhances their natural sweetness and adds incredible flavor.
Keep It Covered: Always keep the grill lid closed during cooking. This retains heat and moisture, leading to tender and creamy Grilled Sweet Potatoes.
Crispiness Matters: Unwrap the foil during the last 15-25 minutes of grilling. This allows the skin to crisp up, giving you that beautiful contrast in texture.
Check Doneness: Use a fork to check tenderness or aim for an internal temperature of 210°F. If they aren’t soft enough, it’s okay to grill them a little longer.

How to Store and Freeze Grilled Sweet Potatoes

Fridge: Store leftover Grilled Sweet Potatoes in an airtight container for up to 4 days. This helps preserve their moisture and flavor.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze wrapped sweet potatoes for up to 3 months. Ensure they’re fully cooled before wrapping in foil or plastic to prevent freezer burn.

Reheating: To reheat, warm them in a microwave or an air fryer to maintain that delightful crispiness. You can also pop them back on the grill for a few minutes to revive their smoky flavor.

Room Temperature: Never leave leftover grilled sweet potatoes at room temperature for more than 2 hours. Keeping them fresher helps ensure you enjoy every bite!

Grilled Sweet Potatoes Recipe FAQs

How do I select the best sweet potatoes for grilling?
Absolutely! Look for medium sweet potatoes that are firm and free of any dark spots or blemishes. Uniformly sized potatoes ensure even cooking, so try to select ones that are similar in size for the grill. The skin should be smooth and unwrinkled, indicating freshness.

How should I store leftover Grilled Sweet Potatoes?
You can store leftover grilled sweet potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. This helps retain their moisture and flavor. Reheat them in a microwave or air fryer to enjoy them as if they were freshly cooked. This way, you can savor that delightful crispiness!

Can I freeze Grilled Sweet Potatoes?
Of course! To freeze your grilled sweet potatoes, allow them to cool completely. Then, wrap each potato tightly in foil or plastic wrap to prevent freezer burn. Label with the date, and they can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to use them, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

What if my sweet potatoes aren’t tender after grilling?
Very often, this happens! If your sweet potatoes aren’t tender after the initial grilling time, don’t worry. Simply continue to grill them for another 5-10 minutes and check again for tenderness. They should easily yield when pierced with a fork. Allowing the potatoes to cook longer at a higher temperature can help them soften.

Are grilled sweet potatoes safe for pets?
Absolutely! Sweet potatoes are generally safe for most dogs when cooked properly—just make sure they’re unseasoned and not mixed with other ingredients like butter or salt that could upset their stomachs. Always check with your vet if you’re unsure about introducing new foods to your pet’s diet!

Can I add spices to my grilled sweet potatoes?
Very much! You can add spices like cinnamon or paprika before grilling for a flavor boost. Just rub a bit of oil and sprinkle your favorite spices to enhance the natural sweetness of the sweet potatoes. This opens up a delightful world of flavor for your grilled sweet potatoes!