Are you looking for a delicious and easy way to incorporate yams into your meals? Look no further! Yams are a versatile root vegetable that can be baked, mashed, roasted, or even used in sweet dishes. In this article, we’ll share 20 mouth-watering yam recipes that are sure to become new favorites.
From classic comfort food dishes like baked candied yams with brown sugar glaze, to savory options like garlic herb roasted baked yams, and even sweet treats like baked yam and apple casserole, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re a busy home cook or a gourmet chef, these recipes are sure to inspire your next meal.
So go ahead and get ready to dig in with our delicious yam recipes!
Baked Candied Yams with Brown Sugar Glaze
This recipe is a perfect combination of sweet and savory flavors, perfect for the holiday season or any time you want to elevate your yam game. With a crispy brown sugar glaze on top, these baked candied yams are sure to be a hit!
Ingredients:
– 4 large yams, peeled and sliced into 1/2-inch thick rounds
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons heavy cream
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine yam slices, granulated sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
3. Toss until the yams are evenly coated with the dry mixture.
4. Place the yam mixture on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper in a single layer.
5. Drizzle the melted butter over the yams.
6. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until tender and caramelized.
7. While the yams are baking, combine brown sugar, heavy cream, and 1 tablespoon of water in a small saucepan.
8. Bring to a boil over medium heat, then reduce heat and simmer for 5-7 minutes or until thickened.
9. Remove the yams from the oven and brush with the brown sugar glaze.
10. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 5-7 minutes or until the glaze is caramelized.
Cooking Time: 50-60 minutes
Garlic Herb Roasted Baked Yams
Elevate your side dish game with this simple yet flavorful recipe that combines the natural sweetness of yams with the savory goodness of garlic and herbs. Perfect for the holidays or a cozy night in!
Ingredients:
– 2-3 large yams, peeled and cubed
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss yam cubes with garlic, olive oil, rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper until well coated.
3. Spread the yams in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Roast for 45-50 minutes or until the yams are tender and caramelized, flipping halfway through.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Spicy Maple Glazed Baked Yams
Elevate your holiday menu with this sweet and spicy twist on classic baked yams. The perfect blend of warm spices, sticky maple syrup, and crispy texture will have everyone asking for seconds.
Ingredients:
– 4 large yams
– 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/2 tsp ground cayenne pepper (or more to taste)
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Scrub and poke the yams with a fork to allow steam to escape.
3. In a small bowl, mix together maple syrup, brown sugar, cinnamon, cayenne pepper, and salt.
4. Place the yams on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the glaze evenly over each yam.
5. Roast for 45-50 minutes or until tender and caramelized.
6. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves before serving.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Baked Yam Fries with Smoky Paprika
Transform your snack game with these crispy baked yam fries infused with smoky paprika flavor! This recipe is a twist on classic potato fries, using sweet and nutty yams instead.
Ingredients:
– 2 large yams
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1/2 tsp garlic powder
– Salt, to taste
– Optional: Additional seasonings of your choice (e.g., chili flakes, cumin, or lime zest)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Peel the yams and cut them into long, thin strips, similar to French fry shape.
3. In a bowl, toss the yam strips with olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and salt until evenly coated.
4. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and arrange the yam fries in a single layer.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the fries are tender and caramelized, flipping halfway through.
6. Remove from oven and season with additional flavorings if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Baked Yam and Apple Casserole
A sweet and savory twist on traditional yam dishes, this casserole combines the natural sweetness of yams with the crunch of apples and a hint of cinnamon.
Ingredients:
– 2 large yams, peeled and sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1 large apple, peeled and sliced into 1/4-inch thick wedges
– 2 tablespoons butter, softened
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine yam and apple slices.
3. In a separate bowl, mix together butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt until well combined.
4. Pour the wet ingredients over the yam and apple mixture; toss until coated evenly.
5. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish and cover with aluminum foil.
6. Bake for 45 minutes, then remove foil and continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until yams are tender.
Cooking Time: 60-65 minutes
Baked Yam Wedges with Rosemary and Thyme
Elevate your snack game with these crispy, flavorful baked yam wedges infused with the earthy aromas of rosemary and thyme.
Ingredients:
– 2-3 large yams
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp dried rosemary leaves
– 1 tsp dried thyme leaves
– Salt, to taste
– Optional: 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (for an extra burst of flavor)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Peel the yams and cut into 1-inch (2.5 cm) wedges.
3. In a bowl, mix together olive oil, rosemary leaves, thyme leaves, and salt.
4. Add the yam wedges to the bowl and toss to coat evenly with the herb mixture.
5. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and arrange the yam wedges in a single layer.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the yams are tender and caramelized, flipping halfway through.
7. If using Parmesan cheese, sprinkle on top of the yams during the last 5 minutes of baking.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Enjoy your crispy, aromatic Baked Yam Wedges with Rosemary and Thyme!
Baked Yam Mash with Cinnamon and Nutmeg
This recipe transforms humble yams into a sweet and savory side dish, perfect for cozy gatherings or everyday meals. The addition of cinnamon and nutmeg adds a warm, aromatic flavor that’s sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 2-3 large yams, peeled and cubed
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss yam cubes with brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg in a large bowl until they’re evenly coated.
3. Spread the yams out in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the yams are tender when pierced with a fork.
5. Remove from oven and mash with a potato masher or a fork until smooth.
6. Stir in heavy cream or half-and-half to desired consistency.
7. Season with salt to taste.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Baked Yam Stuffed with Black Beans and Cheese
This recipe is a delicious twist on traditional baked yams, featuring the savory flavors of black beans and melted cheese.
Ingredients:
– 2 large yams, peeled and sliced into 1-inch thick rounds
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together the black beans and a pinch of salt and pepper.
3. Place a spoonful of the bean mixture onto each yam round, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
4. Sprinkle shredded cheese over the beans.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the yams and sprinkle with additional salt and pepper if desired.
6. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until the yams are tender and the cheese is melted.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Baked Yam and Pecan Streusel
This recipe combines the natural sweetness of yams with the crunch and nutty flavor of pecans, making for a delicious side dish or dessert. The streusel topping adds an extra layer of texture and flavor to this autumnal treat.
Ingredients:
– 2 large yams, peeled and cubed
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup chopped pecans
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine yams, granulated sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
3. Toss until the yams are evenly coated.
4. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish.
5. In a separate bowl, mix together chopped pecans, brown sugar, flour, and baking powder.
6. Add the melted butter and stir until the mixture forms a crumbly streusel topping.
7. Spread the streusel topping evenly over the yams.
8. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the yams are tender and the streusel is golden brown.
Baked Yam and Marshmallow Gratin
This sweet and savory gratin combines the natural sweetness of yams with the fluffy texture of marshmallows, all wrapped up in a crispy, golden-brown crust.
Ingredients:
– 2 large yams, peeled and thinly sliced
– 1 cup marshmallows
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
– Salt to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large bowl, combine yam slices and marshmallows.
3. In a separate bowl, mix sugar, heavy cream, and melted butter.
4. Pour the wet ingredients over the yam mixture and toss until well combined.
5. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish and cover with aluminum foil.
6. Bake for 30 minutes, then remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the top is golden brown.
7. Remove from oven and let cool slightly before serving. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Baked Yam and Coconut Milk Pudding
Savor the warm, comforting flavors of baked yam and coconut milk pudding, a perfect blend of sweet and savory.
Ingredients:
– 2 large yams, peeled and cubed
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large bowl, toss yam cubes with sugar, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg until evenly coated.
3. Spread yams on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 45-50 minutes or until tender.
4. While yams are baking, combine coconut milk and sugar in a medium saucepan. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
5. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
6. In a blender or food processor, puree cooled coconut mixture with a splash of water (if needed) until smooth.
7. Serve baked yams warm, topped with coconut pudding.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes (yams), 10-15 minutes (coconut pudding)
Baked Yam and Spinach Stuffed Shells
Baked Yam and Spinach Stuffed Shells Recipe
This recipe combines the comfort of stuffed shells with the sweetness of baked yams and the earthiness of spinach, creating a unique and delicious twist on a classic dish.
Ingredients:
– 12 jumbo pasta shells
– 2 large yams, baked and mashed
– 1 package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook pasta shells according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a mixing bowl, combine mashed yam, spinach, ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, and egg. Mix well.
4. Stuff each cooked pasta shell with the yam-spinach mixture, placing them in a baking dish as you go.
5. Top shells with additional mozzarella cheese and chopped parsley (if using).
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Baked Yam and Chickpea Curry
This hearty and aromatic curry combines the natural sweetness of baked yams with the creamy richness of chickpeas, all wrapped up in a flavorful blend of Indian spices. Perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 large yams, peeled and cubed
– 1 can chickpeas (14 oz), drained and rinsed
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp curry powder
– 1/2 tsp turmeric
– 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
– 1 can coconut milk (14 oz)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss yams with 1 tbsp olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 30-40 minutes or until tender.
3. In a large pan, sauté onions and garlic in 1 tbsp olive oil over medium heat until softened.
4. Add cumin, curry powder, turmeric, and cayenne pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
5. Stir in chickpeas, coconut milk, and roasted yams. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Simmer the curry for 10-15 minutes or until heated through.
7. Garnish with chopped cilantro, if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-60 minutes
Baked Yam and Bacon Hash
This recipe combines the natural sweetness of baked yams with the smoky flavor of crispy bacon, creating a delicious and satisfying side dish.
Ingredients:
– 2-3 large yams (about 1 pound each)
– 6 slices of thick-cut bacon
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh herbs like parsley or chives
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Scrub the yams clean and poke some holes in each with a fork.
3. Rub the yams with olive oil, then season with salt and pepper.
4. Place the yams on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Cook the bacon slices in a skillet over medium heat until crispy.
6. Remove the yams from the oven after 45-50 minutes or until tender when pierced.
7. Toss the cooked bacon with chopped fresh herbs (if using).
8. Serve the baked yams alongside the crispy bacon and any desired toppings.
Cooking Time:
– Yams: 45-50 minutes
– Bacon: 10-12 minutes
Baked Yam and Pineapple Upside-Down Cake
Sweet and savory, this unique cake combines the natural sweetness of yams with the caramelized flavor of pineapple rings.
Ingredients:
– 2 large yams, peeled and sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup pineapple juice
– 1 cup pineapple rings
– 2 large eggs
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and spices. Add melted butter and mix until combined.
3. Arrange yam slices in the prepared baking dish. Pour pineapple juice over the yams.
4. Top with brown sugar and pineapple rings.
5. Beat eggs in a separate bowl and pour over the cake mixture.
6. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
7. Remove from oven and let cool for 10 minutes before flipping onto a wire rack to cool completely.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Baked Yam and Sage Risotto
A comforting twist on traditional risotto, this dish combines the earthy sweetness of baked yams with the savory flavor of sage.
Ingredients:
– 2 large yams, peeled and cubed
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 4 cups vegetable broth, warmed
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh sage
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss yam cubes with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
2. In a large saucepan, heat butter over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add garlic and Arborio rice; cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
4. Add warmed broth, one cup at a time, stirring continuously and allowing each portion to absorb before adding the next. If using white wine, add it after 2 cups of broth.
5. After 20-25 minutes of cooking, stir in roasted yams and chopped sage. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Baked Yam and Caramelized Onion Tart
This sweet and savory tart combines the natural sweetness of baked yams with the deep flavor of caramelized onions, all wrapped up in a flaky pastry crust.
Ingredients:
– 1 large yam, peeled and cubed
– 2 large onions, thinly sliced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp black pepper
– 1/4 cup caramelized onion jam (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a bowl, toss yam cubes with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread on a baking sheet and roast for 30 minutes.
3. While yams are roasting, caramelize onions in a skillet over low heat for 20-25 minutes.
4. Roll out pie crust to fit a 9-inch tart pan. Place roasted yams and caramelized onions in the tart shell.
5. Drizzle with caramelized onion jam and brush edges of crust with beaten egg for glaze.
6. Bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until pastry is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Baked Yam and Goat Cheese Salad
This recipe combines the natural sweetness of baked yams with the tanginess of goat cheese, all on a bed of fresh greens. It’s a perfect side dish or light lunch that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 2 large yams
– 1/4 cup goat cheese, crumbled
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh herbs (such as parsley, thyme, and rosemary)
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 cups mixed greens
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Pierce the yams with a fork several times and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until tender.
3. Let the yams cool slightly, then slice them into 1-inch pieces.
4. In a large bowl, combine the yam slices, crumbled goat cheese, chopped herbs, and olive oil. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve the salad over mixed greens.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Baked Yam and Chocolate Chip Cookies
Satisfy your sweet tooth with this unique combination of warm baked yams and rich chocolate chip cookies.
Ingredients:
– 2 large yams, peeled and cubed
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– Pinch of salt
– Optional: chopped walnuts or pecans for added texture
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and baking powder.
3. Add softened butter and mix until a crumbly dough forms.
4. Fold in chocolate chips and optional nuts (if using).
5. Arrange yam cubes on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer.
6. Spoon cookie dough over the yams, leaving a 1-inch border around each yam.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cookies are golden brown and yams are tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Baked Yam and Gingerbread Loaf
Warm up with a sweet and savory treat! This Baked Yam and Gingerbread Loaf combines the natural sweetness of yams with the spices and warmth of gingerbread, perfect for a cozy afternoon or as a unique dessert.
Ingredients:
– 2 large yams, peeled and cubed
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/4 tsp ground ginger
– 1/4 tsp salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, cinnamon, ginger, and salt.
3. Add melted butter, brown sugar, and eggs to the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.
4. Fold in cubed yams until they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.
5. Pour the mixture into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.
6. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Summary
Get ready to discover the versatility of yams with these 20 mouth-watering recipes! From classic comfort food to innovative twists, this collection has something for everyone. Try your hand at baking candied yams with brown sugar glaze or roasting them with garlic and herbs. Or, get creative with recipes like baked yam fries with smoky paprika or stuffed shells with black beans and cheese. Whatever your taste buds desire, you’ll find inspiration in this delicious lineup of yam-based dishes.
