Sweet potatoes don't usually get top billing at a summer cookout, but they have a funny way of becoming one of the first dishes to disappear. I've watched people go back for another spoonful while the burgers are still on the grill, and that's all the proof I need that they deserve a place on every summer table. These 15 recipes show just how versatile-and cookout-worthy-sweet potatoes can be.
Air Fryer BBQ Pork Sweet Potato Skins
Sweet potato skins piled with pulled pork and melted cheese are a major upgrade from plain appetizers. Air frying sweet potato halves makes them sturdy enough to hold smoky barbecue meat and all your toppings.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer BBQ Pork Sweet Potato Skins
Taco Stuffed Sweet Potatoes
Fluffy baked sweet potatoes stuffed with taco meat are my favorite way to switch up patio dinners. Scoop spiced ground beef into tender sweet potato shells for a filling meal everyone can customize easily.
Get the Recipe: Taco Stuffed Sweet Potatoes
Sweet Potato Creme Brûlée
You might not think to grill dessert, but chilled sweet potato custard is my favorite barbecue finale. Mashing sweet potato into a silky Japanese-style custard gives you a rich treat with a crackly sugar top.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potato Creme Brûlée
Sweet Potato Brownies
Whole roasted sweet potatoes are my secret for making fudgy dark chocolate squares that stay moist outdoors. Blending cooked sweet potato into cocoa batter creates a rich, fudgy bite that vanishes off the table.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potato Brownies
Sweet Potato Cornbread
Fresh sweet potato folded into cornmeal batter makes the softest, most tender skillet bread for summer nights. Warm cinnamon and natural sweetness keep every square extra moist, making it a natural partner for ribs.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potato Cornbread
Sweet Potato Hummus
Blending sweet potato into classic hummus is my favorite way to bring bright color to a snack table. Tahini, garlic, and roasted sweet potato create a smooth dip that vanishes fast with warm pita chips.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potato Hummus
Sweet Potato and Red Lentil Burgers
Plant-based patties made with sweet potatoes and red lentils belong right alongside classic hamburgers at cookouts. Roasted sweet potato and warm spices hold these high-protein patties together so they stay hearty on plates.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potato and Red Lentil Burgers
Middle Eastern Caramelized Sweet Potato Slices With Date Syrup
Sweet potato rounds caramelized with date syrup are my go-to trick when I want crisp edges. Laying hot, sweet slices over cool cream cheese creates a creamy, smoky bite that fits every grill menu.
Get the Recipe: Middle Eastern Caramelized Sweet Potato Slices With Date Syrup
Roasted Sweet Potato Salad
Ditching heavy mayo for a zesty vinaigrette is why I always make this colorful side for sunny picnics. Roasted sweet potato cubes tossed with cranberries, goat cheese, and toasted nuts bring a sweet crunch to every plate.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Sweet Potato Salad
Sweet Potato And Beet Salad
Sweet potatoes and earthy beets paired together make the brightest dish on the entire patio table. A quick drizzle of miso-maple dressing brings out a salty-sweet crunch that matches anything off the grill.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potato And Beet Salad
Maple Tahini Sweet Potatoes
Warm maple syrup and creamy tahini turned my usual side dishes into an instant outdoor favorite. Roasted sweet potato halves topped with sesame seeds and herbs bring a nutty richness that balances smoky flavors.
Get the Recipe: Maple Tahini Sweet Potatoes
Air Fryer Sweet Potato Wedges
Thick sweet potato wedges cooked in twenty minutes are the easiest side to pair with grilled burgers. A quick toss in oil and warm spices gives these wedges crisp edges and fluffy centers every time.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Sweet Potato Wedges
Roasted Pepper And Tomato Vegan Quiche With Sweet Potato Crust
I love swapping heavy pie dough for sweet potato slices when setting out a bright summer spread. Whisked tofu, roasted peppers, and juicy cherry tomatoes bake inside for a smoky slice that holds up outdoors.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Pepper And Tomato Vegan Quiche With Sweet Potato Crust
Air Fryer Sweet Potato Tater Tots
Air frying sweet potato tots gives you deep-fried crunch without heating up your summer kitchen at all. Seasoned sweet potato bite-sized tots turn extra crispy outside, making them a fun finger food for parties.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Sweet Potato Tater Tots
Crispy Roasted Sweet Potatoes in the Oven
Golden, caramelized sweet potato cubes are a reliable side dish that matches whatever you throw on the grill. High-heat roasting gives these sweet potato bites crisp edges and tender centers using simple pantry spices.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Roasted Sweet Potatoes in the Oven
I think your next cookout just found its new favorite side.
