Grilled sweet potatoes are an incredible side dish that brings a delightful balance of sweetness and smokiness to your BBQ. Their crispy charred exterior conceals a fluffy, tender inside, making them a perfect addition to any meal. Whether you’re hosting a summer cookout or looking for a simple weeknight side, grilled sweet potatoes will impress your guests and family alike.

Jump to:
- Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Tools and Preparation
- Essential Tools and Equipment
- Importance of Each Tool
- Ingredients
- For the Sweet Potatoes
- For Garnish
- How to Make Grilled Sweet Potatoes
- Step 1: Prepare the Sweet Potatoes
- Step 2: Preheat the Grill
- Step 3: Grill the Wedges
- Step 4: Serve
- How to Serve Grilled Sweet Potatoes
- With Avocado Mash
- As a Salad Topper
- In Tacos
- Dressed with Yogurt Sauce
- As a Breakfast Side
- How to Perfect Grilled Sweet Potatoes
- Best Side Dishes for Grilled Sweet Potatoes
- Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Storage & Reheating Instructions
- Refrigerator Storage
- Freezing Grilled Sweet Potatoes
- Reheating Grilled Sweet Potatoes
- Frequently Asked Questions
- What are Grilled Sweet Potatoes?
- Can I use different spices on Grilled Sweet Potatoes?
- How do I know when Grilled Sweet Potatoes are done?
- Are Grilled Sweet Potatoes healthy?
- Can I grill sweet potatoes without peeling them?
- Final Thoughts
- 📖 Recipe Card
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Prepare: With minimal ingredients and simple steps, these grilled sweet potatoes come together quickly.
- Flavorful: The combination of olive oil, paprika, and garlic powder creates a deliciously seasoned wedge that’s hard to resist.
- Versatile Side Dish: Pair them with grilled meats or serve them as a vegetarian option; they fit perfectly into any meal plan.
- Healthy Option: Sweet potatoes are packed with nutrients and fiber, making this dish not just tasty but good for you too.
- Customizable: Feel free to experiment with different spices or toppings to suit your taste preferences.
Tools and Preparation
To make the most of your grilled sweet potatoes, having the right tools will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Grill or grill pan
- Mixing bowl
- Knife
- Cutting board
- Basting brush
Importance of Each Tool
- Grill or grill pan: Essential for achieving that smoky flavor and perfect char on the sweet potatoes.
- Mixing bowl: A large bowl allows you to easily combine ingredients without spilling.
- Knife: For cutting the sweet potatoes into uniform wedges for even cooking.
Ingredients
Grilled sweet potato wedges are a delicious and easy-to-make BBQ side dish with a crispy charred exterior that’s fluffy on the inside.
For the Sweet Potatoes
- 2 large sweet potatoes (cut into 8 wedges each)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
For Garnish
- Avocado (mashed, for serving)

How to Make Grilled Sweet Potatoes
Step 1: Prepare the Sweet Potatoes
- Place the sweet potato wedges in a large mixing bowl.
- Add olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
- Toss well until all wedges are evenly coated with the seasoning.
Step 2: Preheat the Grill
- Heat your grill or grill pan over medium heat.
- Oil the grates or pan lightly using a basting brush to prevent sticking.
Step 3: Grill the Wedges
- Arrange the seasoned sweet potato wedges on the hot grill.
- Grill for about 15 minutes, turning halfway through until they are lightly charred and tender.
Step 4: Serve
- Remove from grill and place on a serving platter.
- Serve warm with mashed avocado on top for added creaminess.
These grilled sweet potatoes will not only add color to your plate but also deliver fantastic flavor that everyone will love! Enjoy this vibrant side at your next gathering!
How to Serve Grilled Sweet Potatoes
Grilled sweet potatoes are a delightful side dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you want to keep it simple or elevate your meal, there are plenty of serving options to consider.
With Avocado Mash
- Smooth and Creamy: Serve grilled sweet potatoes with mashed avocado for a creamy contrast.
- Flavor Boost: Add lime juice and cilantro to the avocado for extra zest.
As a Salad Topper
- Healthy Crunch: Slice grilled sweet potatoes into smaller pieces and add them on top of a fresh salad.
- Nutty Addition: Pair with nuts like walnuts or pecans for added texture.
In Tacos
- Unique Filling: Use grilled sweet potato wedges as a filling for tacos, complemented by black beans and salsa.
- Flavor Combinations: Add avocado and feta cheese for a Mediterranean twist.
Dressed with Yogurt Sauce
- Creamy Dip: Drizzle a yogurt sauce infused with herbs over grilled sweet potatoes for freshness.
- Extra Zing: Incorporate garlic or lemon into the yogurt sauce for an added flavor kick.
As a Breakfast Side
- Morning Boost: Serve alongside eggs for a nutritious breakfast option.
- Sweet Twist: Top with a drizzle of maple syrup for a sweet morning treat.
How to Perfect Grilled Sweet Potatoes
Getting the perfect grilled sweet potatoes requires attention to detail. Follow these tips to enhance your grilling game.
- Choose the Right Potatoes: Select firm, unblemished sweet potatoes for the best flavor and texture.
- Cut Uniformly: Cut wedges evenly to ensure they cook at the same rate, resulting in consistent doneness.
- Preheat the Grill: Make sure your grill is hot before adding the wedges. This helps achieve that perfect char.
- Oil Generously: Coat the sweet potatoes in olive oil thoroughly to prevent sticking and enhance flavor.
- Monitor Cooking Time: Keep an eye on them while grilling; turning halfway through ensures even cooking.
- Experiment with Spices: Feel free to try different spice blends based on your taste preferences; cumin or chili powder can add an exciting twist.

Best Side Dishes for Grilled Sweet Potatoes
Grilled sweet potatoes pair wonderfully with various side dishes, enhancing any meal. Consider these tasty options.
- Coleslaw: A crunchy, tangy slaw provides a refreshing contrast to the sweetness of grilled potatoes.
- Grilled Corn on the Cob: Charred corn adds sweetness and complements the smoky flavor of the sweet potatoes.
- Black Bean Salad: A protein-packed salad that adds heartiness while balancing flavors beautifully.
- Quinoa Pilaf: A nutty grain dish that brings texture and nutrition, making it an excellent pairing.
- Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Crispy sprouts offer bitterness that contrasts nicely with the sweetness of the potatoes.
- Garlic Bread: Crunchy garlic bread can elevate your meal with its rich flavors alongside grilled sweet potatoes.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Grilling sweet potatoes can be straightforward, but common mistakes can lead to less than perfect results. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for.
Bold Preparation: Not cutting the sweet potatoes evenly can lead to uneven cooking. Ensure that each wedge is similar in size for consistent grilling.
Bold Insufficient Marinating: Skipping the marination step can result in bland flavor. Toss the wedges thoroughly in olive oil and spices to enhance their taste before grilling.
Bold Ignoring Temperature: Grilling at too high a temperature may burn the outside while leaving the inside raw. Aim for medium heat to achieve a nice char without overcooking.
Bold Overcrowding the Grill: Placing too many wedges on the grill can cause steaming rather than grilling. Arrange them in a single layer with space between each piece for optimal results.
Bold Neglecting Turning: Forgetting to turn the wedges halfway through cooking can lead to uneven char and texture. Turn them once during grilling for that perfect crispy exterior.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store grilled sweet potatoes in an airtight container.
- They will last up to 4 days in the refrigerator.
- Place parchment paper between layers if stacking to avoid sticking.
Freezing Grilled Sweet Potatoes
- Allow grilled sweet potatoes to cool completely before freezing.
- Use freezer-safe bags or containers, removing as much air as possible.
- They can be stored for up to 3 months in the freezer.
Reheating Grilled Sweet Potatoes
Bold Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and reheat them for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
Bold Microwave: Place the wedges on a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel. Heat for 1-2 minutes, checking frequently.
Bold Stovetop: Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat and add a little olive oil. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, turning until warmed through and crisped up again.

Frequently Asked Questions
What are Grilled Sweet Potatoes?
Grilled sweet potatoes are wedges of sweet potato coated with olive oil and spices, grilled until tender and slightly charred. They make a fantastic side dish at BBQs or family dinners.
Can I use different spices on Grilled Sweet Potatoes?
Absolutely! You can customize your grilled sweet potatoes by using different spices such as cumin, chili powder, or even cinnamon for a sweeter twist.
How do I know when Grilled Sweet Potatoes are done?
You’ll know they’re done when they are tender inside and have grill marks outside. A fork should easily pierce through the flesh without resistance.
Are Grilled Sweet Potatoes healthy?
Yes! Grilled sweet potatoes are nutritious, rich in vitamins A and C, fiber, and antioxidants, making them a healthy addition to any meal.
Can I grill sweet potatoes without peeling them?
Yes, you can grill sweet potatoes with their skin on! The skin adds texture and nutrients; just be sure to wash them well before cooking.
Final Thoughts
Grilled sweet potatoes are not only delicious but also versatile enough for various meals. Their crispy exterior paired with fluffy insides makes them an irresistible side dish. Feel free to customize them with your favorite spices or dips like avocado or yogurt. We encourage you to try this recipe at your next gathering!
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Grilled Sweet Potatoes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: About 4 servings 1x
Description
Grilled sweet potatoes are a must-try side dish that perfectly blends sweetness with a smoky flavor, making them an ideal companion for any meal. Their crispy, charred exterior hides a fluffy inside that melts in your mouth. Whether you’re hosting a summer BBQ or need a quick weeknight side, these grilled sweet potatoes will leave everyone wanting more. With just a handful of ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, they are not only delicious but also nutritious. You can customize them with various spices or serve them with tasty dips like avocado or yogurt, making this recipe as versatile as it is delightful.
Ingredients
- 2 large sweet potatoes (cut into 8 wedges each)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- Avocado (mashed, for serving)
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, toss sweet potato wedges with olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper until evenly coated.
- Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium heat and lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking.
- Grill the seasoned wedges for about 15 minutes, turning halfway through until charred and tender.
- Serve warm topped with mashed avocado for added creaminess.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 80
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 85mg
- Fat: 3g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 16g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg