Sweet Potato on the BBQ | Smoky, Charred & Delicious Every Time

Introduction: Sweet Potatoes, BBQ Style

Sweet potatoes are one of the most versatile and flavourful vegetables you can cook on the BBQ. Whether sliced, cubed, or cooked whole, they absorb that irresistible smoky char while becoming sweet, soft, and caramelised on the inside. Perfect as a healthy side dish or even a meat-free main, BBQ sweet potatoes are a must-try for summer grilling season.

Why You’ll Love BBQ Sweet Potatoes

• 🔥 Smoky and Sweet – Combines the best of BBQ flavour and natural sweetness
• 🥗 Healthy and Nutritious – Packed with fibre, vitamins, and antioxidants
• 🌱 Vegan and Gluten-Free – Great for a wide range of diets
• 🍽️ Endlessly Versatile – Serve as wedges, mash, or stuffed

How to Cook Sweet Potato on the BBQ – Methods & Tips

Method 1: Whole Sweet Potatoes (Wrapped in Foil)

Perfect for hands-off cooking while you grill other items.

What You’ll Need:

• 2–4 medium sweet potatoes
• Olive oil
• Salt and pepper
• Foil for wrapping

Instructions:

1. Wash and scrub sweet potatoes; pat dry.
2. Prick each one a few times with a fork.
3. Rub with a little olive oil and season.
4. Wrap tightly in foil.
5. Place directly on the BBQ grill over medium heat.
6. Cook for 45–60 minutes, turning occasionally, until soft inside.
7. Slice open and add toppings like butter, sour cream, herbs, or spices.

Method 2: Sweet Potato Wedges or Slices (Direct Grill)

Great for quick-cooking with crispy edges and charred grill marks.

What You’ll Need:

• 2 sweet potatoes, cut into wedges or 1cm slices
• Olive oil
• Smoked paprika, garlic powder, chilli flakes (optional)

Instructions:

1. Parboil sweet potato pieces for 5–6 minutes, then drain and cool.
2. Toss with oil and seasoning.
3. Grill directly on the BBQ over medium-high heat for 3–4 minutes per side, until charred and tender.
4. Serve hot with dips or as a BBQ side.

Method 3: Sweet Potato Skewers

An excellent option for kebab-style grilling.

1. Cut peeled sweet potatoes into chunks and parboil until just tender.
2. Thread onto skewers with red onion, pepper, or halloumi.
3. Grill for 6–8 minutes, turning regularly, until caramelised and golden.

Topping Ideas for BBQ Sweet Potatoes

• Classic: Butter, salt, black pepper, fresh herbs
• Zesty: Greek yogurt, lemon zest, chopped coriander
• Sweet: Cinnamon, maple syrup, toasted pecans
• Smoky: Chipotle mayo, black beans, avocado
• Cheesy: Feta, halloumi, or cheddar with chives

Serving Suggestions

• Serve as a side dish with grilled meats, veggie burgers, or kebabs
• Add to a BBQ salad with rocket, roasted peppers, and balsamic glaze
• Top with beans, cheese, and salsa for a loaded vegetarian main
• Mash roasted sweet potato and serve as a dip with flatbreads

Tips for BBQ Sweet Potato Success

• Always parboil wedges or chunks for quicker, more even grilling
• Brush slices with oil to prevent sticking
• Use foil-wrapped whole potatoes for hands-off, slower cooking
• Grill over medium heat — too hot and they’ll burn before softening

Make-Ahead & Storage

• Parboil and season ahead of time; grill when ready to serve
• Store cooked leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days
• Reheat on the BBQ or in a pan to crisp them back up
• Use leftovers in wraps, grain bowls, or salads

Conclusion

Sweet potatoes on the BBQ are a smoky, nutritious, and satisfying addition to any outdoor meal. Whether grilled whole, sliced, or skewered, they deliver on flavour, texture, and versatility. Add your favourite toppings or mix them into your summer sides — once you try them, they’ll become a BBQ essential.