Are you tired of the same old leftover sweet potatoes, stuck in a rut of plain old mashed or roasted? Think again! We’ve got 18 mouthwatering and creative ways to transform your leftover sweet potatoes into deliciously satisfying meals and treats. From savory breakfast dishes to decadent desserts, we’ll show you how to breathe new life into those humble spuds.
Start with our Sweet Potato Breakfast Hash, a hearty morning meal packed with crispy bacon, scrambled eggs, and a hint of maple syrup. Or try our Leftover Sweet Potato Pancakes, fluffy and flavorful with a sweet potato twist. Whether you’re in the mood for tacos, soup, or something sweet, we’ve got a recipe to satisfy your cravings and make the most of those leftovers.
Sweet Potato Breakfast Hash
Start your day with a flavorful twist on traditional breakfast hash by incorporating roasted sweet potatoes.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup cooked sausage (such as chorizo or breakfast links), crumbled
– 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss sweet potato cubes with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet.
3. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
4. In a large skillet, cook sausage over medium-high heat until browned.
5. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened.
6. Stir in cooked peas and carrots.
7. Add roasted sweet potatoes to the skillet and stir to combine.
8. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
9. Garnish with cilantro, if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Leftover Sweet Potato Pancakes
Revamp your leftover sweet potatoes into a tasty breakfast treat! These fluffy pancakes are perfect for a weekend brunch or on-the-go snack.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups leftover mashed sweet potatoes
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
– Optional: blueberries, chopped nuts, or maple syrup for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
2. In a bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. Add the beaten egg, mashed sweet potatoes, and melted butter to the dry ingredients. Mix until smooth.
4. Drop batter by 1/4 cupfuls onto the preheated skillet or griddle.
5. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until bubbles appear on surface and edges start to dry. Flip pancakes and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until golden brown.
Cooking Time: Approximately 10-12 minutes for 8-10 pancakes
Sweet Potato and Black Bean Tacos
A flavorful twist on traditional tacos, these sweet potato and black bean tacos combine the comfort of roasted sweet potatoes with the earthy taste of black beans. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend brunch.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 6-8 corn tortillas
– Optional toppings: avocado, salsa, sour cream, shredded cheese, cilantro
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss sweet potatoes with olive oil, cumin, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet.
3. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
4. In a pan, cook onion and garlic over medium heat until softened.
5. Add black beans to the pan and stir to combine.
6. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
7. Assemble tacos by spooning sweet potato and black bean mixture onto a tortilla.
Cook Time: 35-40 minutes
Sweet Potato Shepherd’s Pie
Sweet Potato Shepherd’s Pie Recipe
A twist on the classic shepherd’s pie recipe, this sweet potato version adds a delicious and nutritious touch to the traditional dish.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 pound ground beef or turkey
– 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
– 1 cup beef broth
– 2 tablespoons tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup mashed sweet potatoes
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the onion and garlic and cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Add the ground beef or turkey and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
4. Stir in the peas and carrots, beef broth, tomato paste, and Worcestershire sauce. Bring to a simmer and let cook for 5 minutes.
5. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish. Top with mashed sweet potatoes.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the sweet potatoes are golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Sweet Potato and Kale Soup
This hearty soup is a perfect blend of sweet and savory flavors, with the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes paired with the earthy taste of kale.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 bunch of kale, stems removed and chopped
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the diced sweet potatoes, vegetable broth, cumin, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the sweet potatoes are tender.
5. Stir in the chopped kale and cook until wilted, about 3-5 minutes.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Sweet Potato Breakfast Burritos
Sweet Potato Breakfast Burritos
Start your day with a delicious and nutritious breakfast burrito packed with roasted sweet potatoes, scrambled eggs, and savory black beans.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 4 eggs
– 1 tablespoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 whole wheat tortillas
– Shredded cheese (optional)
– Salsa (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss sweet potatoes with olive oil, onion, garlic, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
3. Scramble eggs in a bowl and season with cumin, salt, and pepper.
4. Cook black beans according to package instructions.
5. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
6. Assemble burritos by filling each tortilla with roasted sweet potatoes, scrambled eggs, and black beans. Top with cheese and salsa if desired.
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Sweet Potato and Chickpea Curry
A flavorful and nutritious curry that combines the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with the creamy texture of chickpeas, all wrapped up in a warm and aromatic spice blend.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 can chickpeas (14 oz), drained and rinsed
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– 1 can coconut milk (14 oz)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add cumin, curry powder, turmeric, and cayenne (if using); cook for 1 minute.
4. Add sweet potatoes, chickpeas, and coconut milk; stir to combine.
5. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook, covered, for 20-25 minutes or until sweet potatoes are tender.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with cilantro leaves and serve over rice or with naan bread.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Sweet Potato Gnocchi with Sage Butter
Sweet Potato Gnocchi with Sage Butter Recipe
Summary:
This recipe combines the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with the earthy flavor of sage, creating a unique and delicious gnocchi dish.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, cooked and mashed
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup semolina flour
– 1 egg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– Fresh sage leaves for garnish
– Butter, softened
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine mashed sweet potatoes, all-purpose flour, semolina flour, and egg. Mix until a dough forms.
3. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 5-7 minutes, until smooth and pliable.
4. Cut the dough into 4 equal pieces and roll each piece into a long rope.
5. Cut the ropes into 1-inch (2.5 cm) pieces to form the gnocchi.
6. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the gnocchi for 3-5 minutes, or until they float to the surface.
7. In a small saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add fresh sage leaves and cook for 1 minute.
8. Serve cooked gnocchi with the warm sage butter spooned on top.
Cooking Time:
20 minutes
Note: This recipe makes about 40-50 gnocchi. You can also freeze them for up to 3 months and cook as needed.
Sweet Potato and Quinoa Salad
Sweet Potato and Quinoa Salad Recipe
As the seasons change, it’s time to refresh our palates with a nutritious and flavorful salad that combines the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with the nutty taste of quinoa. This recipe is perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped fresh herbs (such as parsley or cilantro) for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss the sweet potato cubes with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until tender.
3. Cook the quinoa according to package instructions. Set aside.
4. In a large bowl, whisk together the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.
5. Add the roasted sweet potatoes and cooked quinoa to the bowl. Toss gently to combine.
6. Garnish with chopped fresh herbs.
Cooking Time: Approximately 40-45 minutes
Sweet Potato and Bacon Frittata
A savory breakfast or brunch option that combines the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with the smoky flavor of bacon.
Ingredients:
– 2 large eggs
– 1 medium sweet potato, cooked and diced
– 4 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together eggs and a pinch of salt.
3. Add the diced sweet potato and crumbled bacon to the egg mixture. Stir until well combined.
4. Pour the mixture into a greased 9-inch (23 cm) pie plate or skillet.
5. Sprinkle grated cheddar cheese on top (if using).
6. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the eggs are set and the frittata is golden brown.
7. Remove from oven and let cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Sweet Potato and Marshmallow Casserole
Sweet Potato and Marshmallow Casserole Recipe
Get ready for a sweet and savory treat with this Sweet Potato and Marshmallow Casserole! This unique dessert combines the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with the fluffy goodness of marshmallows.
Ingredients:
• 2 large sweet potatoes, cooked and mashed
• 1 cup mini marshmallows
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine mashed sweet potatoes, brown sugar, granulated sugar, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
3. Stir in mini marshmallows until well coated with the sweet potato mixture.
4. Pour the mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish.
5. Dot the top with melted butter.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
7. Remove from oven and let cool slightly before serving.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Sweet Potato and Spinach Lasagna
Sweet Potato and Spinach Lasagna Recipe
A twist on the classic Italian dish, this lasagna combines sweet potatoes with spinach and ricotta cheese for a deliciously unique flavor profile.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, cooked and mashed
– 1 package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 12 lasagna noodles
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a medium bowl, combine mashed sweet potatoes, spinach, ricotta cheese, beaten egg, and Parmesan cheese. Mix well to combine.
3. Cook lasagna noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
4. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the sweet potato mixture and cook until heated through, about 5 minutes.
5. In a 9×13-inch baking dish, create a thin layer of the sweet potato mixture. Arrange 4 lasagna noodles on top.
6. Repeat step 5 two more times, ending with a layer of sweet potatoes on top.
7. Sprinkle mozzarella cheese over the sweet potatoes and bake for 30-35 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Sweet Potato and Coconut Soup
Sweet Potato and Coconut Soup Recipe
A creamy and comforting soup that combines the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with the richness of coconut milk.
Ingredients:
- 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and chopped into 1-inch cubes
- 2 tablespoons coconut oil
- 1 onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
- In a large pot, heat the coconut oil over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Add the garlic, cumin, and coriander. Cook for an additional minute, stirring constantly.
- Add the sweet potatoes, coconut milk, and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the sweet potatoes are tender.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with cilantro leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Serves: 4-6
Sweet Potato and Pecan Muffins
Sweet Potato and Pecan Muffins: A delicious breakfast or brunch option that combines the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with the crunch of pecans.
Ingredients:
– 2 large ripe sweet potatoes, cooked and mashed
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 large egg
– 1/2 cup chopped pecans
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, combine mashed sweet potatoes, melted butter, egg, chopped pecans, and vanilla extract. Stir until well combined.
4. Add dry ingredients to wet ingredients and stir until just combined. Do not overmix.
5. Divide batter evenly among muffin cups.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center of a muffin comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Sweet Potato and Lentil Stew
This hearty stew combines the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with the nutty flavor of lentils, perfect for a cozy dinner or lunch.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium-sized sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the diced sweet potatoes, lentils, cumin, smoked paprika (if using), and vegetable broth.
5. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the sweet potatoes are tender and the lentils have broken down.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves (if desired).
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Sweet Potato and Cheddar Waffles
Sweet Potato and Cheddar Waffles Recipe
Sweet potatoes add a delightful twist to traditional waffles, while cheddar cheese provides a rich and creamy flavor. This recipe combines the two for a delicious breakfast or brunch treat.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, cooked and mashed
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup milk
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– Fresh herbs (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat waffle iron according to manufacturer’s instructions.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar.
3. Add mashed sweet potatoes, eggs, milk, and melted butter. Whisk until smooth.
4. Stir in shredded cheddar cheese until well combined.
5. Pour about 1/4 cup of batter onto the preheated waffle iron.
6. Cook for 3-5 minutes or until waffles are golden brown.
7. Serve hot with your favorite toppings, such as maple syrup, fresh herbs, or whipped cream.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes (depending on waffle iron)
Sweet Potato and Apple Crumble
Sweet Potato and Apple Crumble Recipe
Get ready to delight your taste buds with the perfect combination of sweet potatoes and crisp apples, topped with a crunchy oat crumble.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 large apple, peeled and diced
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1/4 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine sweet potatoes and apple.
3. In a separate bowl, mix together brown sugar, granulated sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
4. Add the dry mixture to the sweet potato mixture and stir until combined.
5. Transfer the mixture to a 9×9-inch baking dish.
6. Mix oats, walnuts (if using), and melted butter in a bowl.
7. Spread the crumble mixture evenly over the sweet potato mixture.
8. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the topping is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Sweet Potato and Chocolate Brownies
These rich brownies combine the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with the decadence of dark chocolate, creating a unique and delicious treat.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, cooked and mashed
– 1 and 1/2 sticks unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup dark chocolate chips (at least 60% cocoa)
– 2 large eggs
– Vanilla extract, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line an 8-inch square baking pan with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, combine mashed sweet potatoes, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract. Stir until smooth.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Melt the chocolate chips in a double boiler or microwave-safe bowl. Allow to cool slightly.
6. Fold the melted chocolate into the batter until well combined.
7. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out with a few moist crumbs.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Summary
Get creative with your leftover sweet potatoes! From breakfast to dinner, and even dessert, these 18 recipes will show you just how versatile this nutritious veggie can be. Try Sweet Potato Breakfast Hash for a morning pick-me-up, or Leftover Sweet Potato Pancakes for a tasty treat. For lunch, go for Sweet Potato Shepherd’s Pie or Sweet Potato Tacos. And when it comes to dinner, options abound – from Sweet Potato Gnocchi with Sage Butter to Sweet Potato and Kale Soup. There’s even sweet treats like Sweet Potato Marshmallow Casserole and Sweet Potato Chocolate Brownies!
