16 Sweet Potato Sides That Go With Anything
Sweet potatoes can go from crisp and golden to creamy and smooth, depending on how you cook them. They roast well, hold up in the slow cooker, and crisp beautifully in the air fryer, making them one of the most versatile vegetables in the kitchen. Some recipes lean sweet with brown sugar or maple, others go savory with garlic, spice, or smoky heat. This list includes soft casseroles, crunchy fries, and creative sides that go beyond the basics. Whether you’re using orange, purple, or Japanese sweet potatoes, these recipes highlight just how much you can do with one simple ingredient.
Roasted Sweet Potatoes and Green Beans
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This sheet pan dish brings together two vegetables that roast in the same amount of time. The sweet potatoes turn soft and caramelized, while the green beans take on a light char. Olive oil and garlic keep things simple but flavorful. Great for serving alongside chicken, steak, or salmon.
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Roasted Sweet Potatoes With Honey Garlic
Cubed sweet potatoes are tossed with garlic, honey, and oil, then roasted until golden and tender. The glaze thickens and coats each piece without making it overly sweet. Crisp edges balance the soft interior. An easy side with bold flavor and a hint of caramel.
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Creamy Mashed Purple Sweet Potatoes
These naturally vibrant potatoes mash into a smooth, velvety texture with a rich, earthy flavor. A touch of cream or butter adds extra softness. The color stands out while the flavor stays mellow. A simple way to switch up classic mashed potatoes.
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Japanese Sweet Potato Air Fryer (Easy and Sweet!)
Sliced or whole Japanese sweet potatoes cook up with crisp skin and creamy centers. Their natural sweetness intensifies in the air fryer. No peeling is needed, just a bit of salt before serving. A simple, hands-off method for this naturally rich variety.
Get the Recipe: Japanese Sweet Potato Air Fryer (Easy and Sweet!)
Crock Pot Sweet Potato Casserole
This slow cooker version lets you cook the sweet potatoes low and slow before mashing and topping with pecans or marshmallows. It frees up oven space and stays warm until ready to serve. Brown sugar and spices bring classic flavor without extra steps. A set-it-and-forget-it take on a holiday staple.
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Air Fryer Sweet Potato Wedges
These thick wedges get crispy on the outside while staying soft in the center. A quick seasoning blend adds depth without overpowering. Serve with a creamy dip or toss with fresh herbs before serving. A go-to air fryer side that’s easy to change up.
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Sweet Potato Puffs
Mashed sweet potatoes are rolled into bite-sized balls, coated with breadcrumbs, and baked or air fried until crispy. The outside browns nicely while the inside stays soft and smooth. Easy to make ahead or serve with dipping sauces. A fun way to use up leftovers.
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Brown Sugar Baked Sweet Potato Slices
Sweet potatoes are sliced into rounds, then baked with brown sugar and cinnamon until the edges caramelize. Each piece turns tender with a touch of chew around the sides. A little butter or oil helps them crisp up just right. A simple dish that delivers big flavor.
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Sweet Potato Fritters with Sweet & Spicy Sauce
Shredded sweet potatoes are mixed with spices, pan-fried until crisp, and served with a sweet chili-style sauce. The edges get golden while the inside stays tender. The dipping sauce adds heat and balance. A crispy snack or side with bold flavor.
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Air Fryer Sweet Potato Fries
Cut into thin strips and lightly seasoned, these fries crisp up in the air fryer with no need for deep frying. They cook fast and keep their soft centers. Add your favorite dip or keep it simple with salt. A lighter take on a crispy favorite.
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Air Fryer Sweet Potato Souffle
This soft and airy dish whips mashed sweet potatoes with eggs and spices into a light, fluffy bake. The top puffs slightly while the center stays smooth. It’s rich without being too dense. A unique side made easier with the air fryer.
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Air Fryer Sweet Potato Cubes
Cubed sweet potatoes cook up golden and crispy in the air fryer with just oil and a pinch of seasoning. They hold their shape and finish with lightly crisp edges. Great for tossing into bowls, salads, or wraps. Quick to prep and done in under 20 minutes.
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Sweet Potato Fries
These classic fries roast or bake into soft, crisped strips with deep orange color and natural sweetness. Add garlic powder, paprika, or cinnamon to mix up the flavor. Easy to batch-cook and serve warm. A familiar favorite made from scratch.
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Air Fryer Sweet Potatoes
Whole or halved, these cook quickly in the air fryer until fork-tender with crisp skin. Slice open and top with butter, spices, or a pinch of salt. No foil or oven required. A basic method that works with any variety.
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Air Fryer Sweet Potato Tater Tots
Shredded sweet potatoes are shaped into mini tots, seasoned, and air fried until golden. They turn crisp on the outside with a soft, chewy middle. Great for dipping or serving on the side. A homemade twist on a snack favorite.
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Maple Garlic Sweet Potato Casserole
This version mixes smooth sweet potatoes with maple syrup and roasted garlic for a balance of sweet and savory. A breadcrumb or pecan topping adds texture. It bakes into a creamy dish with bold flavor in every bite. A rich and unexpected combination that works.
Get the Recipe: Maple Garlic Sweet Potato Casserole
