Delicious Traeger Smoked Sweet Potatoes

“Discover the irresistible fusion of smoky flavors and natural sweetness with our sensational smoked sweet potatoes. Elevate your culinary experience with these tender and perfectly charred delights, offering a unique twist to traditional potato dishes. Indulge in a mouthwatering combination that will leave you craving for more. Unleash your taste buds and savor the delectable magic of smoked sweet potatoes.”

Delicious Traeger Smoked Sweet Potatoes

Sweet potatoes are a versatile and nutritious vegetable that can be enjoyed in various ways. One delicious way to prepare sweet potatoes is by smoking them on a Traeger grill or smoker. This method infuses the sweet potatoes with a smoky flavor and creates a tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture.

To make smoked sweet potatoes, start by preheating your Traeger grill to 350°F. While the grill is heating up, wash and scrub the sweet potatoes to remove any dirt. There is no need to peel the sweet potatoes, as their skin contains valuable nutrients.

Next, pierce the sweet potatoes with a fork in several places to allow steam to escape during cooking. In a bowl, mix together garlic powder, black pepper, and salt. Drizzle olive oil over the sweet potatoes and rub it all over them. Then generously sprinkle the seasoning mixture onto the sweet potatoes and rub it in.

Wrap each sweet potato individually in butcher paper or aluminum foil. Place them on the preheated grill and cook for about 45 minutes, or until they are squishy in the middle. The cooking time may vary depending on the size of the sweet potatoes.

Once cooked, unwrap the sweet potatoes and enjoy them as is or dress them up with your favorite toppings such as butter, sour cream, or chopped chives. Smoked sweet potatoes make a perfect side dish for grilled meats like chicken, beef, or pork.

Ingredients You Need

– Orange Sweet Potatoes (Beauregard, Jewel)

– White Sweet Potatoes

– Purple Sweet Potatoes

– Stokes Purple Sweet Potatoes

– Olive Oil

– Garlic Powder

– Black Pepper

– Wood Pellets (Cherry or Apple)

What Type of Sweet Potato to Use

When making smoked sweet potatoes, you have several options for the type of sweet potato to use. Here are some popular varieties:

Orange Sweet Potatoes (Beauregard, Jewel): These are the most common and widely available sweet potatoes. They have orange skin and bright orange flesh. They are versatile and work well in both sweet and savory dishes.

White Sweet Potatoes: With pale beige skin and creamy white flesh, these sweet potatoes have a slightly milder flavor compared to the orange varieties. They are often used in dishes where a less sweet taste is desired.
Purple Sweet Potatoes: These have purple skin and vibrant purple flesh. They are not only visually appealing but also have a slightly nutty flavor. They can be used in various dishes and are often used to add a pop of color.
Stokes Purple Sweet Potatoes: These have deep purple skins and vibrant purple flesh. They have a sweet and slightly nutty flavor, and their rich color makes them great for both cooking and baking.

At a smoking temperature of 225°F (107°C), it typically takes about 2 to 2.5 hours to smoke sweet potatoes until they’re tender and fully cooked. This is using a traditional pellet smoker, like a Traeger smoker. Keep in mind that cooking times may vary depending on the size of the sweet potatoes.

Sweet potatoes are loaded with nutrients and offer several health benefits. Some advantages of incorporating sweet potatoes into your diet include:

High in vitamins and minerals: Sweet potatoes are a good source of vitamins A and C, potassium, and manganese.
Dietary fiber: They contain dietary fiber, which aids in digestion and helps maintain a healthy digestive system.
Antioxidants: Sweet potatoes are rich in antioxidants, which help protect the body against free radicals and reduce inflammation.

Low glycemic index: They have a low glycemic index, meaning they cause a gradual rise in blood sugar levels compared to other starchy foods.

When smoking sweet potatoes, here are some tips to keep in mind:

Add more flavor: You can add more spices and seasonings to enhance the flavor of the sweet potatoes. Try adding Cajun seasoning, jerk seasoning, or fajita seasoning for a spicy kick.

Toppings: Top the smoked sweet potatoes with butter, sour cream, chopped chives, or melted cheese for added flavor.
Stuffing options: Use sweet potatoes as a vessel for a full meal by stuffing them with meat, cheese, and veggies. Add some sour cream and chives for a complete dish.

If you have leftover smoked sweet potatoes, you can refrigerate them for up to 5 days. Place them in an airtight container or plastic zip lock bag once they have cooled to room temperature. You can enjoy them as a side dish or incorporate them into other meals.

There are various cooking methods you can use for sweet potatoes, including:

Smoking: Smoking sweet potatoes infuses them with a smoky flavor and tenderizes them as they cook slowly over low heat.
Steaming: Steaming sweet potatoes is an excellent method for preserving their nutritional content while maintaining a firm and flavorful texture.

Baking: Baking sweet potatoes in the oven helps retain their natural sweetness and creates a soft, creamy interior.
Frying: Frying sweet potatoes can result in crispy and indulgent treats, but it’s important to enjoy them in moderation due to the added oil and calories.

Ultimately, the best cooking method depends on your recipe and personal preferences. Each method can yield delicious results when done correctly.

Equipment Needed

For this recipe, you will need the following equipment:

Traeger grill or other smoker

Digital PID control board (such as the 7002C2E)
Dual temperature probes
Huge pellet hopper

Pellet cleanout system
Pellet view window
Wood pellets (such as hickory or cherry)

Fork for piercing sweet potatoes
Bowl for mixing seasonings
Butcher paper or aluminum foil for wrapping sweet potatoes

Food thermometer (optional, but recommended)

What Smoker to Use

The recommended internal temperature for cooked sweet potatoes is 210°F (99°C). At this temperature, the sweet potatoes will be tender and fully cooked. A food thermometer can help ensure that the sweet potatoes have reached the desired temperature. If you don’t have a digital thermometer, you can also consider factors like cooking time and visual cues such as the skin becoming wrinkled and easily pierced with a fork to know that it’s done. It should be very moist and squishy inside, with no firmness left.

Z Grills 7002C2E Pellet Grill & Smoker

The Z Grills 7002C2E Pellet Grill & Smoker is a new model featuring a digital PID control board and advanced technology for even temperatures and consistent results. It comes with built-in dual temperature probes, a huge pellet hopper, pellet cleanout system, and pellet view window, enhancing your grilling experience. This grill is perfect for smoking sweet potatoes and other delicious dishes.

Traeger Grills Pro Series 22 Pellet Grill & Smoker

The Traeger Grills Pro Series 22 Pellet Grill & Smoker is a versatile and high-quality grill that is perfect for smoking sweet potatoes. It features a digital PID control board and advanced technology for even temperatures and consistent results. The built-in dual temperature probes, huge pellet hopper, pellet cleanout system, and pellet view window enhance your grilling experience. Whether you’re cooking chicken, beef, or pork, this grill is the perfect companion for making smoked sweet potatoes.

What Pellets to Use for the Traeger?

Sweet potatoes are a versatile and nutritious vegetable that can be cooked in various ways. When smoking sweet potatoes, it is important to maintain the right internal temperature for them to be fully cooked and tender. The recommended internal temperature for cooked sweet potatoes is 210°F (99°C). At this temperature, the sweet potatoes will be fully cooked and ready to enjoy.

To smoke sweet potatoes at 225°F (107°C), it typically takes about 2 to 2.5 hours for them to become tender and fully cooked. The cooking time may vary depending on the size of the sweet potatoes. Larger potatoes will need more time to cook compared to smaller ones.

It’s important to note that there is a difference between sweet potatoes and yams. While they are often used interchangeably, they are two distinct varieties of root vegetables. Sweet potatoes have orange skin and bright orange flesh, while yams have brown or black skin with white, purple, or reddish flesh. Sweet potatoes are typically sweeter in flavor compared to yams.

When smoking sweet potatoes, you can choose from different varieties such as orange sweet potatoes (Beauregard, Jewel), white sweet potatoes, purple sweet potatoes, or Stokes purple sweet potatoes. Each variety has its own unique flavor and characteristics that can add depth to your smoked sweet potato dish.

To smoke sweet potatoes using a Traeger grill or other smoker, you will need a few simple ingredients: sweet potatoes (of your preferred variety), olive oil for drizzling, garlic powder, black pepper, salt for seasoning. Simply wash and scrub the sweet potatoes, pierce them with a fork, drizzle with olive oil, season with garlic powder, black pepper, and salt. Wrap the seasoned sweet potatoes individually in butcher paper or aluminum foil and place them on the grill/smoker heated at 350°F (176°C). Cook for about 45 minutes or until the sweet potatoes are squishy in the middle. Once done, unwrap and enjoy with your favorite toppings.

When it comes to choosing wood pellets for your Traeger grill, there are many options available. Hickory wood pellets are great for naturally enhancing the flavor of beef, chicken, pork, and veggies with a bold and full-bodied taste. Cherry wood pellets can add a slightly sweet and fruity flavor to your smoked dishes. You can experiment with different types of wood pellets to find the flavors that you prefer.

Overall, smoking sweet potatoes is a simple and delicious way to enjoy this nutritious vegetable. Whether as a side dish or a main course stuffed with meat and veggies, smoked sweet potatoes are sure to be a hit at any BBQ or gathering.

Health Benefits Of Sweet Potatoes

Sweet potatoes are packed with nutrients and offer numerous health benefits. Here are some of the key advantages of incorporating sweet potatoes into your diet:

1. Rich in vitamins: Sweet potatoes are an excellent source of vitamins A and C, which play crucial roles in supporting immune function and promoting healthy skin.

2. High fiber content: Sweet potatoes contain a high amount of dietary fiber, which aids in digestion, promotes satiety, and helps maintain a healthy weight.

3. Antioxidant properties: The vibrant orange color of sweet potatoes is due to their high beta-carotene content. Beta-carotene acts as a powerful antioxidant that helps protect cells from damage caused by free radicals.

4. Blood sugar regulation: Despite their natural sweetness, sweet potatoes have a lower glycemic index compared to regular white potatoes. This means they have a slower impact on blood sugar levels, making them a suitable choice for individuals with diabetes or those looking to manage their blood sugar levels.

5. Anti-inflammatory effects: Sweet potatoes possess anti-inflammatory properties due to the presence of various compounds like anthocyanins and phenolic acids. These compounds can help reduce inflammation in the body and may have potential protective effects against chronic diseases.

Incorporating smoked sweet potatoes into your meals is not only delicious but also provides you with these beneficial nutrients for overall health and well-being.

How to Make Smoked Sweet Potatoes

To make smoked sweet potatoes, start by preheating your Traeger grill or smoker to 350°F. Wash and scrub the sweet potatoes to remove any dirt and debris, but do not peel them. Pierce the sweet potatoes with a fork in several places to allow for even cooking.

In a bowl, mix together garlic powder, black pepper, and salt. Drizzle olive oil over the sweet potatoes and rub it all over them. Sprinkle the seasoning mixture generously over the sweet potatoes and rub it in.

Individually wrap each sweet potato in butcher paper or aluminum foil and place them on the grill. Cook for about 45 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes are tender and squishy in the middle. The cooking time may vary depending on the size of your potatoes.

Once done, unwrap the sweet potatoes and enjoy as is or dress them up with your favorite toppings such as butter, sour cream, chopped chives, or melted cheese.

What Internal Temperature Should Sweet Potatoes Be?

How Long Does It Take To Smoke A Sweet Potato at 225F?

How Long Does It Take To Smoke A Sweet Potato at 225F?
To smoke a sweet potato at 225°F, it typically takes about 2 to 2.5 hours until the sweet potatoes are tender and fully cooked. The cooking time may vary depending on the size of the potatoes, with larger potatoes needing more time to cook. It is important to check for doneness by piercing the potatoes with a fork and ensuring they are squishy in the middle.

How Many Calories Are In A Sweet Potato?

The terms “sweet potato” and “yam” are often used interchangeably, but they are actually two different vegetables. Sweet potatoes have orange skin and bright orange flesh, while yams have brown or black skin and white or purple flesh. Yams are starchier and drier in texture compared to sweet potatoes. In many parts of the world, including the United States, what is labeled as “yams” in grocery stores are actually varieties of sweet potatoes.

What Is the Difference Between A Sweet Potato and Yam?

What Is the Difference Between A Sweet Potato and Yam?
Sweet potatoes and yams are often used interchangeably, but they are actually two different types of tuberous root vegetables. Here are some key differences between sweet potatoes and yams:

1. Origin: Sweet potatoes are native to the Americas, while yams originated in Africa and Asia.

2. Appearance: Sweet potatoes have a thin, smooth skin that can range in color from yellow to orange or even purple. The flesh of sweet potatoes can be white, orange, or purple. Yams, on the other hand, have rough, scaly skin that is brown or black. The flesh of yams is usually white or off-white.

3. Taste and Texture: Sweet potatoes have a sweeter taste and a moist, creamy texture when cooked. Yams have a starchy texture and a less sweet taste compared to sweet potatoes.

4. Nutritional Content: Sweet potatoes and yams both contain beneficial nutrients like vitamins A and C, potassium, and fiber. However, sweet potatoes tend to have higher levels of vitamin A than yams.

5. Availability: In the United States, what is commonly labeled as “yams” in grocery stores are actually varieties of sweet potatoes. True yams are less common and more likely to be found in specialty markets catering to specific ethnic cuisines.

In summary, the main differences between sweet potatoes and yams lie in their origin, appearance, taste and texture, nutritional content, and availability in certain regions.

Tips to Remember

1. Choose the right sweet potatoes: When selecting sweet potatoes for smoking, opt for varieties like orange, white, purple, or Stokes purple sweet potatoes. They each have unique flavors and colors that can elevate your dish.

2. Pierce the potatoes: Before smoking, make sure to pierce the sweet potatoes with a fork in several places. This allows steam to escape and prevents them from bursting while cooking.

3. Season generously: Coat the sweet potatoes with olive oil and a mixture of garlic powder, black pepper, and salt. This adds flavor and enhances the overall taste of the smoked sweet potatoes.

4. Cook until tender: The cooking time for smoked sweet potatoes may vary depending on their size. Check for doneness by gently squeezing them – they should be squishy in the middle.

5. Use a food thermometer: To ensure that your sweet potatoes are fully cooked, use a food thermometer to measure their internal temperature. The recommended temperature is 210°F (99°C).

6. Experiment with toppings: After smoking, you can dress up your sweet potatoes with various toppings like butter, sour cream, chives, or melted cheese to add extra flavor and texture.

7. Store leftovers properly: If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container or plastic zip lock bag in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

8. Enjoy as a side dish or main course: Smoked sweet potatoes can be served as a delicious side dish alongside grilled meats or used as a base for stuffing with meat, cheese, and veggies for a satisfying main course.

How to Spice Up Your Potatoes

If you want to add more flavor to your smoked sweet potatoes, there are several ways to spice them up:

1. Add more spices and seasonings: Experiment with different combinations of spices and seasonings to enhance the flavor of your sweet potatoes. Try adding Cajun seasoning, jerk seasoning, or fajita seasoning for a spicy kick.

2. Top with delicious toppings: Dress up your sweet potatoes with butter, sour cream, chopped chives, or your favorite cheese. Allow the cheese to melt into the potato for a creamy and indulgent touch.

3. Stuff them with a full meal: Make your sweet potato a complete meal by stuffing it with meat, cheese, and veggies. Add some sour cream and chives for extra flavor.

4. Pair them with other dishes: Smoked sweet potatoes go well with many dishes. Serve them alongside BBQ meats like smoked brisket or pulled pork for a delicious and satisfying meal.

Remember, the possibilities are endless when it comes to spicing up your potatoes. Get creative and experiment with different flavors to find your favorite combination!

What To Serve With Sweet Potatoes?

Sweet potatoes are a versatile side dish that pairs well with a variety of dishes. Here are some options to serve with smoked sweet potatoes:

1. Smoked Brisket: The rich and smoky flavor of the brisket complements the sweetness of the potatoes.

2. Grilled Chicken: The sweet and savory combination of grilled chicken and smoked sweet potatoes is a delicious pairing.

3. Pulled Pork: The tender and flavorful pulled pork goes perfectly with the creamy and slightly sweet taste of the potatoes.

4. Grilled Steak: The smoky flavors from both the steak and the sweet potatoes create a mouthwatering combination.

Can I Store Smoked Sweet Potatoes?

Yes, you can store smoked sweet potatoes for later use. Once they have cooled down to room temperature, place them in an airtight container or a plastic zip lock bag and refrigerate them. Smoked sweet potatoes can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What internal temperature should sweet potatoes be?

The recommended internal temperature for cooked sweet potatoes is 210°F (99°C). At this temperature, the sweet potatoes will be tender and fully cooked.

2. How long does it take to smoke a sweet potato at 225°F?

At a smoking temperature of 225°F (107°C), it typically takes about 2 to 2.5 hours to smoke sweet potatoes until they’re tender and fully cooked.

3. What is the difference between a sweet potato and yam?

The terms “sweet potato” and “yam” are often used interchangeably, but they are actually two different vegetables. Sweet potatoes have orange skin and flesh, while yams have brown or black skin with white, purple, or red flesh. Yams also have a starchier texture compared to the sweeter taste and softer texture of sweet potatoes.

How long does it take to smoke potatoes?

Smoking sweet potatoes at a temperature of 225°F (107°C) typically takes about 2 to 2.5 hours until they’re tender and fully cooked. However, the cooking time may vary depending on the size of the potatoes. Larger potatoes will require more time to cook. To check for doneness, the sweet potatoes should be squishy in the middle and their internal temperature should reach 210°F (99°C). It’s important to note that these are rough estimates and actual cooking times may vary.

Smoking sweet potatoes is a simple and convenient way to prepare them as a side dish for BBQ meats. The recipe requires just five simple ingredients: sweet potatoes (such as orange, white, purple, or Stokes purple varieties), olive oil, garlic powder, black pepper, and salt. After washing and scrubbing the sweet potatoes, pierce them with a fork, drizzle with olive oil, and rub them with a mixture of garlic powder, black pepper, and salt. Wrap each potato individually in butcher paper or aluminum foil and place them on the grill preheated to 350°F (177°C). Cook for about 45 minutes or until they are squishy in the middle.

Sweet potatoes are loaded with nutrients and known for their decadent sweet flavor. They are available in various varieties like orange, white, purple, and Stokes purple. Each variety has its own unique characteristics in terms of taste and appearance. Orange sweet potatoes are the most common variety with orange skin and bright orange flesh. White sweet potatoes have pale beige skin and creamy white flesh with a slightly milder flavor compared to orange varieties. Purple sweet potatoes have purple skin and vibrant purple flesh with a slightly nutty flavor. Stokes purple sweet potatoes have deep purple skins and vibrant purple flesh with a sweet and slightly nutty flavor.

The Traeger Pro Series 22 Pellet Grill & Smoker is one option for smoking sweet potatoes. It features a digital PID control board, advanced technology for even temperatures and consistent results, built-in dual temperature probes, a large pellet hopper, pellet cleanout system, and pellet view window. However, there are other smoker options available as well.

Incorporating sweet potatoes into your diet offers several advantages. Sweet potatoes are rich in essential vitamins and minerals like vitamins A and C, potassium, and manganese. They also provide dietary fiber, which is beneficial for digestion. Additionally, sweet potatoes have a lower glycemic index compared to regular potatoes, making them a healthier option for managing blood sugar levels.

Overall, smoking sweet potatoes can be an easy and flavorful way to enjoy this nutritious vegetable as a side dish or main course. The cooking time will vary depending on the size of the potatoes and the desired level of tenderness. By following simple steps and using basic seasonings, you can create delicious smoked sweet potatoes that pair well with various dishes.

Is steaming or boiling sweet potatoes better?

Both steaming and boiling sweet potatoes have their advantages, and the choice between the two methods depends on your desired outcome. Steaming is generally considered one of the best cooking methods for preserving the nutritional content of vegetables. It helps retain more vitamins and minerals compared to other methods like boiling, where some nutrients can leach out into the water.

Steaming also helps maintain a firm, flavorful texture in sweet potatoes. It allows them to cook evenly without becoming mushy or overly soft. This makes steamed sweet potatoes a great option for salads, stir-fries, and other dishes where you want the potato to hold its shape.

On the other hand, boiling sweet potatoes ensures even cooking as they are fully submerged in water. This method can yield tender, soft sweet potatoes that are perfect for mashing or pureeing. Boiling also allows for easy seasoning by adding spices or herbs directly to the water.

Is steaming sweet potato good?

Steaming sweet potatoes is an excellent cooking technique if you want to maximize their nutritional content and maintain a firm, flavorful texture. It’s a versatile method that works well for many dishes. Steaming helps retain more vitamins and minerals compared to other cooking methods like boiling, as the sweet potatoes are not fully submerged in water. This ensures that the nutrients are preserved and not leached out into the cooking liquid.

The terms “sweet potato” and “yam” are often used interchangeably, but they are actually two different root vegetables. Sweet potatoes have orange skin and bright orange flesh, while yams have rough, dark brown skin with pale yellow or white flesh. In terms of taste, sweet potatoes are sweeter and have a softer texture compared to yams. Yams are starchier and less sweet.

At a smoking temperature of 225°F (107°C), it typically takes about 2 to 2.5 hours to smoke sweet potatoes until they’re tender and fully cooked. This is using a traditional pellet smoker like a Traeger grill or ZGrills pellet grill. However, cooking time may vary depending on the size of the sweet potatoes. Larger potatoes will need more time to cook.

Are sweet potatoes better baked or fried?

Both baking and frying sweet potatoes can be delicious, and the choice ultimately depends on your personal preferences and dietary goals. If you’re looking for a healthier option with more nutrients, baking is generally considered the better choice. Baking sweet potatoes helps retain their natural flavors and nutrients while creating a soft and creamy texture. It also requires less oil or fat compared to frying.

However, if you’re craving a crispy, indulgent treat, frying can be a tasty option when enjoyed in moderation. Frying sweet potatoes results in a crispy exterior with a soft and fluffy interior. It creates a rich flavor profile that pairs well with various seasonings and dips. Keep in mind that frying sweet potatoes typically requires more oil or fat, which can increase calorie intake.

In conclusion, smoked sweet potatoes offer a unique and delicious twist to this versatile vegetable. The smoky flavor adds depth and complexity to its natural sweetness, making it a delightful addition to any meal. Whether roasted, mashed, or used in creative recipes, smoked sweet potatoes are a must-try for food enthusiasts seeking new culinary experiences.

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Chef David

Hey, I'm David Everett and I'm an Executive Chef/Owner of The Trellis. I took over the reins of The Trellis from Chef Marcel DeSaulniers, reenergizing and renovating the Williamsburg landmark, bringing updated modern American fare to the visitors on Duke of Gloucester Street. I'm here to help you learn more about grilling, smoking, and backyard BBQ! With almost 4 decades of manning the grill and helping over 25,000 aspiring grill masters, you're in great hands! I've tried just about every type of grill, accessory, and gadget you can imagine. Because of that, I am here to help guide you to the best of the best and help you save time and money by avoiding the junk.