Sweet potatoes can go savory, sweet, crispy, creamy, or somewhere in between, and that’s what makes them a kitchen favorite year-round. They roast beautifully with just oil and salt, mash into a smooth base for casseroles, and work surprisingly well in the air fryer or slow cooker. These recipes highlight everything from weeknight sides to holiday staples, with classic casseroles, simple bakes, crispy wedges, and a few creative takes like fritters and tater tots. Some lean cozy with maple and brown sugar, while others keep it light with garlic, green beans, or a hint of spice. Whether you’re working with orange, purple, or Japanese varieties, there’s something here to use up whatever’s in your pantry.
Sweet Potato Casserole
This classic bake layers creamy mashed sweet potatoes with a crunchy brown sugar pecan topping. The filling is smooth, sweet, and spiced just right. It’s a go-to side for holidays but holds up just as well on any cool-weather dinner table. A cozy dish with plenty of texture in every bite.
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Homemade Sweet Potato Fries
Cut into thin strips and roasted or air fried, these fries are crisp around the edges with soft centers. A light coating of oil and seasoning is all they need. Serve with ketchup, aioli, or your favorite dipping sauce. A simple way to turn sweet potatoes into an everyday side.
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Slow Cooker Sweet Potato Casserole
Let the slow cooker handle the work in this hands-off version of a holiday favorite. The potatoes cook down soft and flavorful, then get topped with a mix of brown sugar, pecans, or mini marshmallows. It frees up oven space and tastes just as good. A smart make-ahead option for gatherings.
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Japanese Sweet Potato Air Fryer (Easy and Sweet!)
These purple-skinned, yellow-fleshed potatoes turn golden and tender in the air fryer. Their natural sweetness deepens as they cook, needing little more than a sprinkle of salt. The texture is creamy on the inside with crisp skin. A simple snack or side with no peeling required.
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Sweet Potato Puffs
Mashed sweet potatoes are shaped into bite-sized balls, coated in breadcrumbs, and baked or air fried until crisp. The inside stays soft and creamy while the outside gets golden. Great for dipping or serving as an appetizer. A fun, snackable way to use leftovers.
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Sweet Potato Fritters with Sweet & Spicy Sauce
Grated sweet potatoes are mixed with spices and fried into golden patties. The sweet-spicy dipping sauce brings balance and bold flavor. Crisp on the edges and soft inside, they work as a starter or a side. Great for brunch or something a little different at dinner.
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Roasted Sweet Potatoes and Green Beans
These two veggies roast together on one sheet pan with garlic, oil, and your choice of herbs. The sweet potatoes caramelize while the green beans get lightly blistered. It’s simple, colorful, and works with almost any protein. A great side dish for busy weeknights.
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Brown Sugar Baked Sweet Potato Slices
Thick rounds of sweet potatoes bake until tender, with a caramelized brown sugar glaze on top. Each slice has soft centers and crisp edges. It’s an easy way to serve sweet potatoes without mashing. Ideal for both weeknight dinners and holiday spreads.
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Roasted Sweet Potatoes With Honey Garlic
Cubed sweet potatoes roast with a sticky glaze of honey, garlic, and a touch of oil. The edges crisp while the glaze thickens into a sweet-savory coating. It’s a bold twist on a basic side. Great with chicken, salmon, or a grain bowl.
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Air Fryer Sweet Potato Wedges
These thick wedges crisp up quickly in the air fryer with just oil and seasoning. They hold their shape and stay tender in the middle. A sprinkle of paprika or garlic powder adds flavor. A fast, satisfying side that’s easy to pair with anything.
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Creamy Mashed Purple Sweet Potatoes
These striking potatoes mash into a smooth, vibrant dish with a hint of sweetness and rich texture. A little cream or butter makes them extra silky. They stand out on any table, both in color and flavor. A fun way to shake up your usual mash.
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Maple Garlic Sweet Potato Casserole
This version of casserole adds roasted garlic and maple syrup to balance sweet and savory. The mash is smooth, topped with pecans or breadcrumbs for crunch. It’s rich without being too heavy. A slightly different take that still feels familiar.
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Baked Sweet Potato
Baked whole until soft and steamy inside, sweet potatoes are as easy as it gets. Split them open and top with butter, cinnamon, or a sprinkle of sea salt. They work as a side or a base for toppings like beans, cheese, or pulled meat. Comfort food with almost no prep.
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Baked Sweet Potatoes With Apples & Cranberries
This dish brings together tender slices of sweet potatoes, soft apples, and bursts of tart cranberries. The mix of textures plays well with warm spices and a drizzle of maple syrup. It’s softly baked, lightly caramelized, and rich with natural sweetness. A blend of flavors that leans fruity and spiced without being heavy.
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Air Fryer Sweet Potato Tater Tots
These mini tots are crisp on the outside and soft in the middle, made with shredded sweet potatoes and a handful of spices. The air fryer gives them a golden crunch without needing deep oil. Great for dipping or serving alongside burgers. A homemade take on a favorite snack.
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Air Fryer Sweet Potato Souffle
The taste of air fryer sweet potato soufflé is nothing short of heavenly. It’s the perfect blend of sweet and creamy, with a hint of warm spices and a satisfying crunch from the pecan topping.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Sweet Potato Souffle
