Have you ever wondered how to transform sweet potatoes using a cast iron skillet? I’ll show you. These 11 sweet potato recipes are tasty and simple to make. They show off what you can do with sweet potatoes and a cast iron skillet.
I love making meals that are easy, yet packed with flavor. Cast iron skillets are ideal for this. They cook sweet potatoes perfectly because of their even heat. And the best part? These recipes keep the cleanup easy, so they’re perfect for any day.
No matter your cooking level, there’s something here for you. Whether you like classic dishes or new ideas, you’ll find recipes to enjoy. So, get your skillet ready and discover the joy of cooking with sweet potatoes!
Key Takeaways
- Cast iron skillets provide even heat distribution for perfect sweet potato dishes.
- One-pan meals offer convenience and easy cleanup.
- Sweet potatoes are versatile ingredients for both savory and sweet recipes.
- These recipes are suitable for various skill levels and dietary preferences.
- Cooking with cast iron enhances flavor and nutrition in sweet potato dishes.
The Versatility of Sweet Potatoes in Cast Iron Cooking
Sweet potatoes really make cast iron cooking shine. Their use in sweet and savory dishes stands out. This makes them perfect for many types of recipes.
In a cast iron skillet, sweet potatoes are exceptional. They become crispy on the outside and soft inside. This method boosts their flavor uniquely.
Let’s dive into sweet potato recipes for your skillet:
- Crispy wedges: Cut into 1-inch wedges, toss with oil and spices, and roast at 425°F for 25-30 minutes.
- Savory hash: Dice sweet potatoes and sauté with onions and bell peppers for a hearty breakfast.
- Caramelized slices: Thinly slice and cook in butter over medium heat until golden brown.
- Sweet potato pie: Use your skillet to bake a unique twist on this classic dessert.
But sweet potatoes don’t just taste good – they offer a lot for our health. They’re full of good things like vitamins and fiber. When cooked in a well-seasoned skillet, they make a great, nutritious dish.
Sweet Potato Dish | Cooking Time | Difficulty Level |
---|---|---|
Crispy Wedges | 25-30 minutes | Easy |
Savory Hash | 15-20 minutes | Medium |
Caramelized Slices | 10-15 minutes | Easy |
Sweet Potato Pie | 45-50 minutes | Medium |
Try these recipes and make sweet potato sides your own. Mix up the seasonings and ingredients to discover what you like best!
Essential Tools and Ingredients for Cast Iron Sweet Potato Dishes
I enjoy making sweet potatoes in a cast iron skillet. It changes the game for tasty, simple meals. Here’s what you need for the best cast iron sweet potato dishes.
Choosing the Right Cast Iron Skillet
An 11-inch skillet, well-seasoned, is perfect for sweet potato dishes. It cooks food evenly and makes a great outer layer. Ensure your skillet is seasoned right to avoid food sticking and to add flavor.
Sweet Potato Selection Tips
Select long, even sweet potatoes for better cooking. You’ll need around 1 ½ lbs to feed four. This amount fits most recipes well.
Must-Have Seasonings and Spices
To make your sweet potatoes taste great, use these spices:
- Kosher salt (¼ tsp per recipe)
- Black pepper
- Garlic powder
- Rosemary
- Ceylon cinnamon (for sweet recipes)
I mix 2 tablespoons of avocado oil with 1 tablespoon of butter. It gives the right taste and texture.
Tool/Ingredient | Quantity/Type | Purpose |
---|---|---|
Cast Iron Skillet | 11-inch | Even heat distribution |
Sweet Potatoes | 1 ½ lbs | Main ingredient |
Avocado Oil | 2 tablespoons | Cooking oil |
Butter | 1 tablespoon | Flavor enhancer |
Kosher Salt | ¼ teaspoon | Seasoning |
With the right tools and ingredients, you can make delicious sweet potatoes in cast iron. Cooking usually takes 15-20 minutes. You can store leftovers in the fridge for up to 4 days. Or, freeze them for 2-3 months.
Mastering the Art of Seasoning Your Cast Iron Skillet
Seasoning your cast iron is crucial for a non-stick surface and better cooking. A seasoned skillet is just right for tasty Chicago-style deep dish pizza and sweet potato dishes. Let’s look at how to do it!
To start, preheat your oven to 350°F. Then, wash the skillet with hot water and don’t use soap. After washing, make sure it’s completely dry. Now, spread a thin layer of vegetable oil all over it.
Place the skillet in the oven upside down for an hour. After an hour, let it cool inside the oven.
This process should be done 3-4 times for the best results. A well-seasoned skillet gets better over time. When cooking is done, clean it with hot water and a brush. Then, dry it and add a thin layer of oil for upkeep.
Skillet Size | Olive Oil | Cornmeal |
---|---|---|
8-inch | 1 tablespoon | 1 teaspoon |
10-inch | 1.5 tablespoons | 1.5 teaspoons |
12-inch | 2 tablespoons | 2 teaspoons |
Good seasoning and care make your skillet last for many years. It becomes great for cooking all sorts of food. From grilling meat to baking cornbread, your seasoned cast iron skillet is a real kitchen MVP.
Spiral Sweet Potato Bake: A Showstopping Side Dish
Creating stunning dishes that taste amazing is my passion. The spiral sweet potato bake is a great example. It’s made in a cast iron skillet and turns basic ingredients into something breathtaking.
Ingredients and Preparation
You’ll need these ingredients for the amazing spiral sweet potato bake:
- 2.5 lbs sweet potatoes, thinly sliced
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 3/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp fresh rosemary, chopped
Start by washing and peeling the sweet potatoes. Slice them thinly with a mandoline or sharp knife. In a bowl, mix melted butter, olive oil, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and rosemary. Coat the sweet potato slices with this mixture.
Cooking Technique for Perfect Texture
Grease a 10-inch cast iron skillet. Arrange the sweet potato slices in a circular shape. Start from the outside and move inward. Here’s how to cook it just right:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C)
- Cover the skillet with foil and bake for 30 minutes
- Increase the temperature to 430°F (220°C)
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 20 minutes until it’s crispy
Serving Suggestions and Variations
This bake is a great side with meats or as the main dish for vegetarians. Add extra rosemary and sea salt flakes for more taste. You can mix it up with different herbs. Or sprinkle Parmesan cheese for a fun change. For a whole meal, serve with a healthy beef and broccoli stir fry. It’s guaranteed to please your palate!
Savory Sweet Potato Hash: A Breakfast Favorite
Starting my day off right is important to me with a full breakfast. Sweet potato hash is my favorite morning meal. It’s simple to make and tastes great. You can whip it up in 30 minutes for 4 people. This makes it awesome for feeding your family or friends during brunch gatherings.
You’ll need a few key ingredients to make this dish at home:
- 2 large sweet potatoes (about 1.5 pounds), diced into 1/2-inch cubes
- 2 tablespoons coconut oil
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
So, how do I cook this delicious breakfast? Well, here’s the recipe:
- Start by heating coconut oil in a big cast-iron skillet on medium heat.
- Add the diced sweet potatoes and season with sea salt, dried parsley, and cinnamon.
- Cook for 15-20 minutes, making sure to stir from time to time. This way, the sweet potatoes get crispy on the outside and soft inside.
The coconut oil gives this dish a special flavor and gets those sweet potatoes just right. Sea salt brings out their natural sweetness. Plus, parsley and cinnamon add a nice warm feel. For a full meal, try combining this sweet potato hash with a tasty chicken and cabbage stir-fry.
Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
---|---|
Calories | 180 |
Protein | 2g |
Carbohydrates | 30g |
Fiber | 5g |
Vitamin A | 380% DV |
This dish is not just delicious, it’s good for you too. Each serving has a bunch of fiber, a lot of vitamin A, and healthy carbs. It’s a great breakfast meal that you can change to your liking. Easily add other veggies or meat to make it even more filling.
Crispy Sweet Potato Wedges: The Ultimate Comfort Food
Crispy sweet potato wedges are a comfort food that’s easy to make. They are full of flavor. Using a cast iron skillet makes them even better. Let’s look at how to make these tasty treats.
Cutting and Seasoning Techniques
Begin by cleaning and drying 2 sweet potatoes. Cut them into wedges about 1/2 inch thick for even cooking. In a big bowl, mix the wedges with olive oil, salt, pepper, and a herb like rosemary. This brings out the sweetness of the potatoes.
Achieving the Perfect Crispiness
Heat your skillet in a 425°F oven for 10 minutes. Place the wedges in the skillet in a single layer. Bake for about 20-25 minutes. Flip them halfway. The hot skillet and high heat are crucial for a perfect outside and soft inside.
Dipping Sauce Pairings
Make some dipping sauces as your wedges bake. Popular choices are garlic aioli, spicy mayo, and honey mustard. These sauces go great with the crispy wedges. For a healthy meal, try this shrimp and broccoli stir-fry recipe to enjoy with your wedges.
Dipping Sauce | Ingredients | Preparation Time |
---|---|---|
Garlic Aioli | 1/2 cup mayo, 2 minced garlic cloves, 1 tbsp lemon juice | 5 minutes |
Spicy Mayo | 1/2 cup mayo, 2 tbsp sriracha, 1 tsp lime juice | 3 minutes |
Honey Mustard | 1/4 cup dijon mustard, 1/4 cup honey, 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar | 2 minutes |
Sweet Potato and Black Bean Skillet: A Vegetarian Delight
Creating vegetarian skillet meals is a joy for me. One of my top picks is this sweet potato and black bean mix. It’s hearty, requires only one pan, and a mainstay in my recipes since 2008. Here’s a guide to making this scrumptious meal fit for any busy evening.
To get started, grab these ingredients:
- 3 small sweet potatoes (about 6 ounces each), diced
- 1 can (15 ounces) reduced-sodium black beans
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- Juice of 1 lime
First, warm up the olive oil in your skillet over medium heat. Toss in the sweet potatoes and cook for 10 minutes. Stir every so often. Then, add onions, peppers, and garlic. Cook for another 5 minutes until slightly soft.
Add the black beans, cumin, and chili powder next. Mix well and let it all cook up for about 5 minutes. The sweet potatoes will get soft and a bit brown. To finish, a bit of lime juice adds a refreshing pop.
This sweet potato and black bean dish isn’t just tasty. It’s also rich in nutrients. Here’s what each serving gives you:
Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
---|---|
Calories | 486 |
Carbohydrates | 53g |
Protein | 22g |
Fat | 21g |
Fiber | 12g |
Vitamin A | 10409 IU |
Potassium | 600mg |
To make this meal even more satisfying, I top it with avocado, cilantro, and Greek yogurt. It’s a complete, delicious dish that’s perfect for busy days.
Caramelized Sweet Potato Slices: A Simple Yet Elegant Side
I adore making caramelized sweet potatoes. A cast iron skillet really brings out their lovely sweetness. It’s a joy to cook and share this dish!
Slicing Methods for Even Cooking
Getting the slicing right is key for perfect sweet potatoes. I use a mandoline for 1/4-inch slices. This leads to a consistent, caramelized outside.
Caramelization Tips and Tricks
To get that ideal golden-brown, I place them one layer thick in a buttered skillet. I turn them once they’re golden, over medium heat. Patience is crucial during this process!
Flavor Enhancements and Garnishes
For added flavor, I dust them with brown sugar and cinnamon. Herbs like thyme or rosemary also work well. A sprinkle of pecans or a bit of maple syrup on top is the finishing touch.
Ingredient | Amount | Purpose |
---|---|---|
Sweet potatoes | 2 lbs | Main ingredient |
Olive oil | 1/3 cup | For cooking and flavor |
Honey | 1 tablespoon | Natural sweetener |
Garlic | 2 cloves | Adds depth of flavor |
Herbs (oregano, sage, thyme) | 1 teaspoon each | Aromatic seasoning |
This serving is for 6 people and takes about an hour from start to table. Each serving is 250 calories, full of vitamins and fiber. It’s a hit with any crowd and will likely become a favorite in your home!
Skillet Sweet Potato Nachos: A Crowd-Pleasing Appetizer
I enjoy making snacks healthier and love sweet potato nachos. They are delicious and full of good stuff. Here’s how to make this treat that your guests will love.
Start with 2 medium sweet potatoes and 2 medium white potatoes. Thinly slice and line them in a skillet. Bake at 400°F for 15-20 minutes until they’re crispy. This crunchy base is a healthy swap for tortilla chips.
Add 1 can of black beans, 1 cup corn, and 1 cup each of tomatoes, avocados, and red onions. Include 2-3 jalapenos for spice. Sprinkle 1 cup of cheese on top. Colby and jack mix is yummy.
Put the skillet back in the oven for 8-12 minutes. You want the cheese to melt and bubble. When it’s done, sprinkle ¼ cup cilantro and lime juice. Enjoy with ½ cup sour cream or Greek yogurt and 1 cup salsa.
Nutritional Info (per serving) | Amount |
---|---|
Calories | 484 |
Carbohydrates | 50.9g |
Protein | 14.1g |
Fiber | 12.5g |
Sodium | 1655.3mg |
This dish feeds 4 and takes 35 minutes to make. It’s perfect for game nights or hanging out. Using sweet potatoes gives nachos a fun and healthy twist. This snack is both great-tasting and good for you.
Sweet Potato and Sausage Skillet: A Hearty One-Pan Meal
Making one-pan meals is a joy for me, and this sweet potato and sausage recipe is top-notch. It’s ideal for those rushed evenings. You get a filling dinner with minimum effort. So, let me show you how to prepare this delicious meal!
Choosing the Right Sausage
I include 14 oz of smoked sausage in this dish. You can go for your preferred kind like spicy Italian or maybe a chicken or plant-based option. It brings in a burst of taste and protein.
Balancing Flavors and Textures
This dish sings because of the right mix of tastes and textures. 1 lb of sweet potatoes and a big sweet onion gives it its charm. The sweet potatoes counter the savory sausage well, and the onion deepens the flavors.
One-Pan Cooking Techniques
Here’s my method for the one-pan cooking:
1. Begin by browning the sausage in a cast iron skillet.
2. Mix in diced sweet potatoes, onions, and bell peppers.
3. Sprinkle with garlic, thyme, and paprika.
4. Cook until the sweet potatoes are soft yet a bit crispy.
5. Add a bit of apple cider vinegar at the end for a zing.
This meal takes up 35 minutes from start to finish and is perfect for four servings. Each serving is around 454 calories, with 31g of carbs, and 14g of protein. It’s a meal that’s both healthy and fulfilling!
Ingredient | Amount | Purpose |
---|---|---|
Sweet potatoes | 1 lb | Main carbohydrate, adds sweetness |
Smoked sausage | 14 oz | Main protein, adds savory flavor |
Sweet onion | 1 large | Adds depth and sweetness |
Bell peppers | 1 cup, diced | Adds color and crunch |
Apple cider vinegar | 1 tbsp | Adds brightness to the dish |
Skillet Sweet Potato Pie: A Twist on a Classic Dessert
I enjoy giving traditional desserts a fresh twist. This skillet sweet potato pie is a great example. It’s made in a cast iron skillet, which creates a crispy bottom and a creamy top. It stands out at any event, both in taste and look.
For the crust, mix 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour with 1/2 cup cold butter. Add 1/4 cup ice water until it’s combined well. Using cold ingredients is key for a flaky crust. Press this mix into a 10-inch cast iron skillet.
Now, let’s talk about the filling. You’ll need:
- 2 cups mashed sweet potatoes (about 2 medium potatoes)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Mix these until smooth. Pour the mixture into the crust. The sweet potatoes make it creamy and the spices warm it up. Baking in a cast iron skillet helps everything cook evenly.
Now, bake it at 375°F for about 45 minutes. It’s ready when the middle is firm. Let it cool for a few hours. This time helps the flavors merge and the pie to set well.
Nutritional Info | Per Serving |
---|---|
Calories | 397 |
Carbohydrates | 46g |
Protein | 4g |
Fat | 23g |
This recipe makes a pie that serves 8 people. It keeps in the fridge for 2 days. For longer, tightly wrap it in foil and freeze up to 3 months. Thaw it in the fridge overnight. Enjoy this fun take on a timeless dessert!
Gluten-Free Sweet Potato Skillet Cornbread
I enjoy making gluten-free cornbread in my cast iron skillet. It gets its wonderful moistness and taste from sweet potatoes. This makes it an awesome side dish that brings together sweet potato bread and gluten-free cornbread beautifully.
Here’s what you need for this recipe:
- 1 1/4 cups gluten-free cornmeal
- 1 cup 1:1 gluten-free flour
- 1 cup sweet potato puree
- 3/4 cup almond milk
- 1/3 cup maple syrup
- 1/4 cup coconut sugar
- 2 eggs
- 3 tablespoons vegan butter or ghee
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 3/4 teaspoon sea salt
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
Begin by preheating your oven to 425°F. Combine dry ingredients in a bowl and the wet ones in another. Mix them just until they’re together. Then, pour the batter into your cast iron skillet.
Cook for 22-25 minutes until it’s a lovely golden color. Baking in cast iron helps create a crisp outer layer with a moist center. This makes enough for 10 servings, with each serving at 150 calories, 25g carbs, 3g protein, and 5g fat.
To store, keep your cornbread in a sealed container for four days. You can also freeze it for up to three months. This way, you can always have this tasty gluten-free snack on hand.
Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
---|---|
Calories | 150 |
Carbohydrates | 25g |
Protein | 3g |
Fat | 5g |
Vitamin A | 3235IU |
Calcium | 146mg |
Spicy Sweet Potato Fries: A Healthier Alternative
I love making spicy sweet potato fries. They are a great, healthy snack. With a cast iron skillet, you get a perfect mix of crispy and tender. This recipe is enough for 4 servings.
- 1 ½ pounds sweet potatoes, cut into ½-inch cubes
- 3 tablespoons coconut oil
- 1 ½ teaspoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
- 5 cloves garlic, minced
To start, preheat your oven to 450°F. Toss sweet potato cubes in a bit of coconut oil and the seasonings. This mixture will make the fries tasty and crisp.
Heat a skillet on the stove over medium-high. Add your seasoned sweet potatoes in a single layer when it’s hot. Cook, stirring now and then, for about 5 minutes. You want them to get a nice sear.
Now, move the skillet to the oven. Bake the fries for 15-20 minutes, turning them over halfway. This step ensures they’re thoroughly cooked and extra crispy. Finally, broil for 2 more minutes to get a beautiful color.
These spicy sweet potato fries are delicious and good for you. Each serving has only 245 calories and packs 6g of fiber. They’re a smart swap for regular fries and fit well in paleo or dairy-free diets.
Enjoy your fries with a tasty dipping sauce. They keep well in the fridge for up to 5 days. So, they’re an excellent option for meal prepping. Snack on these flavorful and nutritious treats!
Sweet Potato Frittata: A Versatile Brunch Option
Making a sweet potato frittata for brunch is a joy. This recipe is quick, ready in 25 minutes. It serves 4 and has just 327 calories per serving, ideal for a health-conscious meal.
Egg and Sweet Potato Ratio
I use 8 eggs and 2 cups of diced sweet potatoes for a great frittata. First, I sauté the sweet potatoes until they’re tender, for about 5-7 minutes.
Add-In Ideas for Customization
This dish is very versatile. You can add spinach, feta cheese, or bacon. For more protein, consider adding shrimp. Be creative with the veggies and proteins you love.
Stovetop to Oven Cooking Method
The frittata starts cooking on the stove. After 3-4 minutes when the edges are set, I move it to a 375°F oven for 10-12 minutes. The cast iron skillet cooks everything evenly, giving you a beautiful sweet potato frittata!