Among the numerous uses of sweet potatoes in cooking, this list stands out for its creative and delicious applications. From savory dishes like hash to sweet treats such as waffles, the versatility of sweet potatoes is unmatched. The sheer variety of options means that you could easily eat sweet potatoes at every meal, from a breakfast dish like sweet potato pancakes to a dinner entree like gnocchi, and even save room for a dessert course featuring sweet potato pudding.
If there’s one takeaway from this list, it’s the importance of cooking extra sweet potatoes whenever possible – you never know when inspiration will strike!
Cheesy Sweet Potato Cakes
Finding itself at the top of many culinary lists, the combination of cheese and potatoes is a match made in heaven. This duo is like a well-oiled machine, each component playing off the other to create a truly unbeatable flavor profile – the melted cheese providing a rich contrast to the starchy goodness of sweet potatoes. By mashing them together, then frying until golden brown and crispy, you’ll be treated to a snack that’s nothing short of perfection.
This simple yet elegant dish is sure to satisfy your cravings and leave you wanting more.
Sweet Potato Croquettes
Packed with the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes, croquettes offer a delightful twist on traditional snacks. They possess a dense, rounded texture reminiscent of cakes but with an undeniable appeal that sets them apart. This sweet potato version is particularly satisfying as a filling appetizer, especially when served alongside a rich and creamy dipping sauce.
Holiday Leftover Sweet Potato Cake
Taking advantage of leftover yams or sweet potatoes is a great way to save money on holiday cooking without sacrificing flavor or quality. Thrifty cooks will love this recipe that turns these often-overlooked ingredients into a deliciously moist and fluffy cake, complete with the added bonus of beer, which not only helps the batter rise but also makes the cooking process more enjoyable.
Baked Sweet Potato Donuts
Delighting kids’ taste buds while providing a nutritious twist on traditional snacks, these sweet potato donuts are a fantastic option for parents looking for healthier alternatives.
Sweet Potato Waffles
Taking advantage of leftover candied sweet potatoes from your Thanksgiving feast is an excellent opportunity to introduce a delicious new breakfast option: waffles infused with the sweetness of sweet potatoes. The subtle, sweet flavor of these root vegetables pairs remarkably well in a waffle batter that’s far from ordinary. To elevate this dish, consider topping it with drizzled maple syrup and crushed pecans for a truly indulgent experience.
Chai Spiced Sweet Potato Pudding
Delighting the senses with its aromatic flavors and velvety texture, spiced chai pairs beautifully with a silky sweet potato puree. This recipe’s simplicity is one of its greatest charms, requiring just four ingredients to create a healthier, more indulgent take on traditional mousse-like desserts that are almost instantly assembled.
Sweet Potato Hash
Understanding the simplicity behind a hash, it’s essentially a chaotic yet harmonious blend of various ingredients. Unlike other complex dishes that require multiple steps and preparations, a hash is an effortless one-bowl meal ideal for busy individuals who need a quick fix without compromising on nutrition or flavor.
This sweet potato hash is a prime example, as it brings together the natural sweetness of root vegetables with the savory goodness of seasoned sausage and vibrant veggies, resulting in a truly satisfying supper. By topping it with a fried or poached egg, you can add an extra boost of protein to make this dish even more irresistible.
Sweet Potato Hummus
Little do people know, hummus is a staple ingredient in my kitchen. Not only do I consume it frequently, but I also love experimenting with new recipes that incorporate this versatile dip. The sweet potato recipe is next on my agenda, and I just can’t resist the combination of roasted potatoes, chickpeas, cumin, tahini, and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice. It’s not only a delicious option, but it’s also vegan and packed with nutrients, making it a guilt-free treat that soon will be devouring.
Sweet Potato Spice Muffins
Taking advantage of the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes enables bakers to reduce the amount of flour used in recipes without compromising on texture. The result is a deliciously soft and fluffy muffin with a subtle balance of sweet and spicy flavors. Their lightness makes them an ideal snack to enjoy with your morning coffee or as a nutritious breakfast/brunch option, perfect for satisfying your hunger while still being mindful of what you eat.
Sweet Potato Gnocchi
Knowing that homemade gnocchi requires a bit of effort is nothing compared to the reward of savoring each bite, especially when they’re paired with an equally delicious sage and walnut sauce. This recipe is particularly noteworthy for its ability to produce perfectly soft and tender gnocchi, while also infusing them with a rich, savory flavor that’s simply irresistible.
Sweet Potato Pie
Beyond its seasonal associations with Thanksgiving and Christmas, sweet potato pie is a dessert that can be enjoyed year-round. In fact, once you’ve tasted it, you’ll likely find yourself craving it at any time of the year. This individual serving recipe makes it easy to satisfy your cravings without overindulging. The classic combination of a buttery cracker crust and creamy custard filling is still present in this scaled-down version, perfect for smaller gatherings or solo indulgence.
Sweet Potato Bread
Baking this easy quick-bread allows for endless creativity in terms of presentation and pairing options. It’s uniquely versatile, capable of complementing both savory and sweet dishes alike. Whether you’re enjoying it as a breakfast treat spread with jam and butter, or serving it as a side to accompany a hearty roast, the choice is truly yours.
Sweet Potato Brownies
For those with an aversion to sweet potatoes, fear not! These decadent brownies are about to change everything. The seemingly unlikely union of the orange root vegetable and rich chocolate is a match made in heaven, resulting in moist and indulgent treats that even the most die-hard haters will adore. They’re so good, your sweet potato convert might just think they’re a type of fudge – and we won’t judge if you don’t share the secret!
Sweet Potato Biscuits
You’ve got a leftover sweet potato casserole with marshmallows on top and plenty of sugar – don’t toss it! This sweet treat can be repurposed into delicious desserts. Simply scoop up what’s left of your casserole and fold it into a basic batter mixture. Roll out the dough, bake until golden brown, and indulge in sweet, fluffy biscuits that are perfect for snacking or serving alongside your favorite soups or stews.
Sweet Potato Alfredo
Many people enjoy the challenge of finding hidden ingredients in recipes like this one. Don’t be fooled into thinking that sweet potato alfredo is made with pasta noodles substituted for potatoes – it’s not. Instead, regular noodles are tossed in a rich and creamy sauce made from cooked sweet potatoes, mixed with fresh parsley, parmesan cheese, and garlic.
This twist on the classic Italian dish is an excellent way to sneak more vegetables onto your dinner plate, adding new depth and flavor to a familiar favorite.
Fried Sweet Potatoes and Eggs
Often touted as a luxurious breakfast option, this heavenly dish is deceptively simple in its preparation. Just fry sliced potatoes until golden brown, then crack an egg on top to create a rich and satisfying combination. The best part? It’s affordable, quick, easy to make, and packed with flavor – making it the perfect way to shake off a mid-morning slump and refuel for the rest of the day.
16 Best Ways to Use Leftover Sweet Potatoes
Instructions
Looking through the collection of recipes, it’s time to choose one that catches your eye and sparks your interest. Next, make sure you have all the necessary ingredients within arm’s reach to avoid any last-minute trips to the store. With a little planning, you can prep a delicious sweet potato dish in under 30 minutes.
