Grilled Sweet Potato Fries

Sweet potato fries are a beloved snack or side dish, but when they take on the smoky, charred flavors of the grill, they transform into something truly special. These Grilled Sweet Potato Fries are not only delicious but also easy to make, perfect for summer barbecues or cozy dinners at home. With just a handful of ingredients, you can whip up a batch that will have everyone asking for seconds. Let’s dive into why this recipe works, what you’ll need, and how to make these fries the star of your next meal!

Why This Recipe Works

This recipe shines for several reasons. First, grilling sweet potatoes enhances their natural sweetness and adds a depth of flavor that baking simply can’t match. The high heat of the grill caramelizes the sugars in the sweet potatoes, creating crispy edges while keeping the inside tender. Furthermore, the blend of spices, including the unique kick of chipotle pepper, elevates the flavor profile, making these fries irresistible. Finally, they are incredibly versatile: serve them as a side dish, a snack, or even as a topping for salads and bowls.

The Ingredient Lineup

To make these Grilled Sweet Potato Fries, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 4 large sweet potatoes – scrubbed and kept with the skin on for extra flavor and nutrients.
• 2 tablespoons kosher salt – plus 1 teaspoon, divided, to enhance the flavor.
• 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil – for a rich taste and to help the spices adhere.
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar – light or dark, to balance the spices with a hint of sweetness.
• 1 teaspoon ground chipotle chile pepper – for a smoky heat; avoid cayenne unless reducing the amount.
• Chopped fresh cilantro – optional, for a fresh garnish that adds color and flavor.

Tools & Equipment Needed

Before we get cooking, gather the following tools:

• Grill – either gas or charcoal will work perfectly for that smoky flavor.
• Cutting board and knife – for slicing your sweet potatoes into fries.
• Large bowl – to toss the sweet potatoes with the oil and spices.
• Grill basket or skewers – optional, but helpful for keeping the fries from falling through the grates.
• Tongs – to safely turn your fries on the grill.

Grilled Sweet Potato Fries Cooking Guide

Now that you have everything prepped, let’s get cooking!

Step 1: Prep the Sweet Potatoes

Start by washing the sweet potatoes thoroughly under running water. Using a vegetable scrubber can help remove any dirt. Once clean, slice them into even fry-shaped pieces, about ½ inch thick. Keeping the skin on adds texture and nutrients, so don’t peel them!

Step 2: Season the Fries

In a large bowl, combine the sliced sweet potatoes with 2 tablespoons of kosher salt, 2 tablespoons of olive oil, 1 tablespoon of brown sugar, and 1 teaspoon of ground chipotle chile pepper. Toss everything together until the sweet potato fries are well-coated. This will ensure every fry is packed with flavor.

Step 3: Preheat the Grill

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If using a gas grill, simply turn on the burners. For charcoal, light your coals and let them burn until they are covered in ash. A hot grill is essential for achieving that perfect char on your fries.

Step 4: Grill the Fries

If you have a grill basket, place the fries in it. If not, you can thread them onto skewers for easier handling. Grill the sweet potato fries for about 15-20 minutes, turning them halfway through. Look for nice grill marks and tenderness; they should be crispy on the outside and soft on the inside.

Step 5: Serve & Enjoy

Once the fries are done, remove them from the grill and let them cool for a minute. If desired, sprinkle with the additional teaspoon of kosher salt and garnish with chopped fresh cilantro for that extra pop of flavor. Serve immediately while they’re still warm, and watch them disappear!

Make It Diet-Friendly

These Grilled Sweet Potato Fries can easily be adjusted to fit various dietary needs:

• Gluten-Free: This recipe is naturally gluten-free as sweet potatoes are a gluten-free food.
• Vegan: The recipe is vegan-friendly, making it suitable for plant-based diets.
• Lower Sugar: If you want to reduce sugar, you can omit the brown sugar or reduce the amount.
• Spice Level Adjustment: Adjust the chipotle pepper to suit your heat preference, or omit it for a milder flavor.

Troubles You Can Avoid

To ensure your Grilled Sweet Potato Fries turn out perfectly, consider the following tips:

• Cut Evenly: Make sure to cut the fries into uniform sizes to ensure they cook evenly on the grill.
• Don’t Overcrowd: Avoid overcrowding the grill; give the fries enough space to allow for even cooking and charring.
• Watch the Time: Keep an eye on the fries as they grill; overcooking can lead to burnt fries.
• Use High Heat: Make sure the grill is hot enough before adding the fries; this helps achieve that crispy exterior.

Cooling, Storing & Rewarming

If you find yourself with leftover Grilled Sweet Potato Fries (which is rare!), here’s how to handle them:

Allow the fries to cool completely before storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, spread them on a baking sheet and bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through and crispy again. Avoid using the microwave, as it can make them soggy.

Your Top Questions

Can I use other types of potatoes?

Yes! While sweet potatoes are the star of this recipe, you can certainly experiment with other varieties like Yukon gold or red potatoes. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary based on the type of potato used.

Do I need to peel the sweet potatoes?

No peeling necessary! The skin adds texture and nutrients. Just be sure to scrub them clean before slicing.

Can I make these fries in the oven instead?

Absolutely! If you prefer oven-baked fries, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C), spread the seasoned fries on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, and bake for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through until crispy.

What can I serve with these fries?

These Grilled Sweet Potato Fries pair beautifully with a variety of dishes. Serve them alongside grilled meats, burgers, or as part of a colorful salad. They also make a great snack on their own or with a dipping sauce like garlic aioli or spicy mayo.

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Save & Share

Did you love these Grilled Sweet Potato Fries? Share this recipe with your friends and family on social media, or save it to your favorite recipe box for later. These fries are sure to impress anyone who tries them!

Grilled Sweet Potato Fries are not just a side dish; they are a celebration of flavor and simplicity. With their crispy texture and sweet, smoky taste, they are perfect for any occasion. So fire up your grill, gather your ingredients, and get ready to enjoy one of the best treats of summer!