Foil Grilled Southwestern Sweet Potatoes
Grilled Sweet Potatoes are the perfect side dish for summer cookouts! This easy recipe creates tender, flavorful sweet potatoes with a light char and a hint of smokiness from the grill. It’s a tasty and versatile side that pairs well with grilled meats, salads, and more. In this post, I’ll show you how to grill sweet potatoes in foil, and share my favorite ways to serve them for a complete meal!
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Making these Grilled Sweet Potatoes in Foil
A few weeks ago, I had one of those “Oh, no! It’s almost dinner time” moments. I rummaged through the pantry and fridge, trying to pull something together, and spotted sweet potatoes, spinach, and tortillas—a totally random mix. Then, I remembered how much I love foil-grilled potatoes in the summer.
That night, I threw together a quick spinach salad, these flavorful southwestern grilled sweet potatoes, and some chicken quesadillas. I added black beans and cilantro to my quesadilla, while the kids had theirs plain. The meal turned out so good that I knew I had to make it again—this time on purpose—so I could share the recipe with you!
I love sweet potatoes in all forms, but they’re often associated with Thanksgiving dishes and marshmallows. While I enjoy those classics (like my Mini Sweet Potato Tarts with Gingersnap Pecan Crust), I think sweet potatoes pair especially well with bold southwestern flavors.
These Foil Grilled Southwestern Sweet Potatoes are not only a fantastic side dish for Mexican-inspired meals, but they’re also great for meal prep, tacos, salads, and grain bowls.
Why You’ll Love this Recipe
✔ No Oven Needed – I love keeping the heat outside during the summer! Grilling sweet potatoes means no hot kitchen and an easy, flavorful side dish.
✔ Foolproof & Effortless – Sweet potatoes are a pantry staple in my house, making this recipe a go-to when I need a quick side.
✔ Versatile & Delicious – I love how these can be served as a side, in tacos, salads, or grain bowls—so many ways to enjoy them!
✔ Perfect for Meal Prep – I often meal prep a batch to use in lunches throughout the week, making meals easier and delicious!
Tools Needed to Make Grilled Sweet Potatoes
Here are the kitchen tools you’ll need to prepare this recipe:
- Sharp knife – For cutting the sweet potatoes into even slices or cubes.
- Cutting board – A sturdy surface to prep your ingredients.
- Large bowl – For tossing sweet potatoes with oil and seasonings.
- Heavy-duty aluminum foil – Regular foil works, but heavy-duty prevents tearing.
- Grill – Both gas and charcoal grills work well.
- Tongs or oven mitts – For safely handling the hot foil packets.
Ingredients for Grilled Sweet Potatoes
Before you start, take a moment to double-check your pantry or create a shopping list. For precise measurements, grab the free printable recipe card at the bottom of this post!
You’ll need the following ingredients:
- Sweet potatoes – Leave the skin on for extra texture and nutrients.
- Olive oil – Helps caramelize and crisp up the potatoes.
- Salt & black pepper – Enhances the natural sweetness.
- Chili powder & cumin – Adds warmth and depth of flavor.
- Smoked paprika or chipotle powder – For a subtle smoky kick.
- Garlic powder – Infuses extra savory goodness.
How to Grill Sweet Potatoes in Foil
Grilling sweet potatoes in foil is super easy and requires just a few steps:
- Preheat the Grill – Set your grill to medium-high heat.
- Prep the Sweet Potatoes – Slice or cube them evenly, then toss with oil and seasonings.
- Assemble the Foil Packets – Place seasoned sweet potatoes in the center of a large piece of foil. Fold the edges to create a sealed packet.
- Grill the Packets – Place on the grill grates and cook for 20-30 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- Serve & Enjoy – Carefully open the packet and serve warm!
The above is simply a quick summary of this recipe. Check out the full recipe in the free printable recipe card at the bottom of this post for all the detailed instructions.
Recipe Tips
- Keep the skin on – It helps them hold their shape and adds a nice texture.
- Cut evenly – Uniform pieces ensure even cooking. The best way to cut the potatoes for this recipe is in 3/4 to 1-inch pieces
- Use heavy-duty foil – Prevents tearing and helps steam the potatoes properly.
- Flip halfway through – Helps the potatoes cook evenly and develop light char.
- Don’t overpack the foil – Allow room for air circulation inside the packet.
- Use tongs or an oven mitt to remove the foil pouch — The grill and foil pouch will be very hot after cooking. Don’t forget to turn the grill off!
Ways to Use Foil Grilled Southwestern Sweet Potatoes
One of my favorite things about this recipe is how versatile it is! These flavorful sweet potatoes can be enjoyed on their own or used in other dishes to add a smoky, spiced kick. Here are some of my go-to ways to use them:
- Protein-Packed Meal Prep – Add them to meal-prep bowls with grilled chicken, rice, and avocado for an easy grab-and-go lunch.
- Taco Night Upgrade – Swap them in for meat or beans in Sweet Potato and Black Bean Tacos for a delicious vegetarian option.
- Hearty Grain Bowls – Toss them into Fall Mexican Rice Bowls or make a southwestern-style quinoa bowl with Roasted Poblano Cilantro Quinoa (see photo above!).
- Mexican-Inspired Salad – Layer them over romaine, black beans, avocado, tomatoes, and crushed Cumin Chipotle Lime Chips for a vibrant salad or add them to this Vegetarian Taco Salad.
- Savory Sweet Potato Chili – Stir them into Black Bean and Sweet Potato Chili (a reader favorite recipe!) at the end of cooking for an extra smoky depth of flavor.
Have another favorite way to enjoy these grilled sweet potatoes? Let me know in the comments!
FAQ: Grilling Sweet Potatoes
Got questions about making grilled sweet potatoes in foil? Here are the answers to some commonly asked questions! If you have any other questions, feel free to leave a comment, and I’ll be happy to help.
Can I make these sweet potatoes in the oven instead?
Yes! If you don’t have a grill or prefer an oven method, follow these easy steps:
- Preheat the oven to 425°F.
- Toss the sweet potatoes with oil and spices, then spread them in a single layer on a baking sheet.
- Roast for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until tender and slightly caramelized.
Do I need to peel the sweet potatoes before grilling?
Nope! The skin adds texture and extra nutrients. If you prefer a softer bite, you can peel them, but I like to leave the skin on for added flavor and to help them hold their shape.
How do I know when the sweet potatoes are done?
They should be fork-tender and slightly caramelized on the edges. If you prefer them crispier, you can open the foil for the last few minutes of grilling to allow some direct heat.
What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Let the sweet potatoes cool completely, then store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. They reheat well in the microwave, oven, or even a skillet for a crispy finish.
What to Serve with Foil Grilled Sweet Potatoes
If you’re looking for the perfect main dish to serve with these smoky, spiced sweet potatoes, here are some great pairings:
- Marinated Flank Steak – A family-favorite grilling recipe that complements the deep, caramelized flavor of the sweet potatoes.
- Mango Habanero Chicken Drumsticks – The perfect mix of sweet and spicy for a summer barbecue.
- Smoked Pork Shoulder – A smoky, slow-cooked dish that pairs beautifully with the slightly charred, spiced sweet potatoes.
These sweet potatoes also make a fantastic potluck side dish, so keep them in mind for summer cookouts!
Try This Grilled Sweet Potato Recipe!
Next time you fire up the grill, give these foil-grilled sweet potatoes a try! If you love this recipe, please leave a comment and rate it below—I love hearing from you!
On Instagram? Share your photo and tag me @goodlifeeats with #goodlifeeatsrecipes—I’d love to see your creation!
More Sweet Potato Recipes to Try
Looking for more ways to enjoy sweet potatoes? Here are a few of my favorites:
- Garlic Sweet Potato Fries – The perfect crispy side to any meal!
- Smokey Grilled Sweet Potato Wedges – A simple and flavorful way to enjoy sweet potatoes on the grill.
- Sweet Potato Black Bean Chili – A hearty and comforting meal packed with flavor.
- Roasted Sweet Potato Cubes – Perfectly seasoned and roasted to perfection.
Don’t see what you’re looking for here? You can always head over to check out the recipe index to look for more recipes.
Try this Easy Sweet Potato Foil Packets!
Next time you’re looking for an easy side dish, give these grilled sweet potatoes in foil a try! Did you think they were a great sweet potato dish?
Leave a comment below and give it a review for others to see what you thought of this delicious side dish. Your comments and reviews help other readers, too!
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Have you ever cooked sweet potatoes on the grill?
Foil Grilled Sweet Potatoes
Grilled sweet potatoes in foil are a flavorful, easy-to-make side dish perfect for summer cookouts! Tossed in smoky southwestern spices and grilled until tender, these sweet potatoes pair well with a variety of meals!
Ingredients
- 1 pound Sweet Potatoes, unpeeled and cut into 3/4 inch cubes
- 1 tablespoon Olive Oil
- 1/4 - 1/2 teaspoon Salt
- 1/4 teaspoon Pepper
- 3/4 teaspoon Chili Powder
- 1/2 teaspoon Cumin
- 1/4 teaspoon Smoke Paprika or Chipotle Powder
- 1/8 teaspoon Garlic Powder
Instructions
- Preheat your grill to high.
- In a large bowl, combine the potatoes and olive oil.
- Toss to coat.
- Place potatoes on top of a large sheet of heavy-duty foil.
- Sprinkle the potatoes with all of the seasonings.
- Pull the two shorter ends of the rectangle together in the center. Hold them together and roll down.
- Fold in the remaining openings.
- Grill the potatoes on the upper rack of your grill for 20-30 minutes.
- Flip part way through, or until potatoes are tender and browned.
Notes
Storage: Let the sweet potatoes cool completely, then transfer them to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days. When you're ready to enjoy them again, reheat in the microwave, oven, or skillet until warmed through.
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Nutrition Information:
Yield: 4 Serving Size: 1Amount Per Serving: Calories: 119Total Fat: 4gSaturated Fat: 1gTrans Fat: 0gUnsaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 0mgSodium: 310mgCarbohydrates: 21gFiber: 3gSugar: 7gProtein: 2g
GoodLifeEats.com offers recipe nutritional information as a courtesy and is an estimate only. This information comes from online calculators. Although GoodLifeEats.com makes every effort to provide accurate information, these figures are only estimates.
Laurie says
How many people does this serve?
Katie Goodman says
about 4
Rina says
Could this be altered to work with the stove/oven? I live in an apartment complex with a ban on grills, and would love to try this dish.
Katie Goodman says
I would toss the sweet potatoes with the oil and spices and roast on a baking sheet in the oven at 425 degrees F.