Grilled Sweet Potatoes are a classic American cookout side dish that combines the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with rich brown sugar, butter, and warm cinnamon. Popular at backyard barbecues, camping trips, and outdoor gatherings, this recipe uses foil packets to gently steam and caramelize the potatoes over hot coals. The result is a tender, flavorful side dish with a hint of smoky outdoor flavor. Simple ingredients and an easy preparation method make this recipe a favorite for summer meals and family cookouts. The foil packet technique helps lock in moisture while allowing the sweet potatoes to absorb the buttery cinnamon-sugar mixture, creating a comforting dish that pairs well with grilled meats, burgers, and barbecue favorites.
Ingredients
- 2 ¼ lb sweet potatoes (about 3 medium, washed and patted dry)
- ⅓ cup butter
- ¼ cup brown sugar (packed )
- 1 tbsp ground cinnamon
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes
- Wash the sweet potatoes thoroughly.
- Pat them dry.
- Cut each sweet potato in half lengthwise.
Step 2: Assemble the Foil Packets
- Place each sweet potato half in the center of a 12 x 10-inch piece of aluminum foil.
- Dot the sweet potatoes evenly with butter.
Step 3: Add the Seasoning
- Combine the brown sugar and cinnamon in a small bowl.
- Sprinkle the mixture evenly over the sweet potatoes.
Step 4: Seal the Packets
- Wrap the foil securely around each sweet potato half to form sealed packets.
Step 5: Grill the Potatoes
- Place the foil packets on a grill rack over hot coals (approximately 400°F–500°F).
- Cook with the grill lid open for 25–30 minutes.
- Turn the foil packets once during cooking.
Step 6: Serve
- Carefully open the packets.
- Serve warm as a side dish.
Tips
- Add a pinch of nutmeg for extra warm spice flavor.
- Sprinkle chopped pecans over the potatoes before serving.
- Use maple syrup instead of brown sugar for a different sweetness.
- Add a small pinch of salt to balance the flavors.
- Wrap multiple halves together in larger foil packets for easier grilling.
- Try this recipe on a gas grill if charcoal is unavailable.
- Add mini marshmallows during the last few minutes of cooking.
- Use smoked cinnamon for a subtle smoky flavor.
- Serve with grilled pork, chicken, or barbecue ribs.
- For a lighter version, reduce the butter by half.
Nutrition
Calories: 165kcalCarbohydrates: 28gProtein: 2gFat: 6gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.3gMonounsaturated Fat: 1.7gTrans Fat: 0.2gCholesterol: 17mgSodium: 58mgPotassium: 420mgFiber: 4gSugar: 13gVitamin A: 15100IUVitamin C: 3mgCalcium: 45mgIron: 0.8mg