Sweet potatoes are a staple ingredient in many cuisines around the world. While we often associate sweet potatoes with their orange variety, white sweet potatoes are just as delicious and versatile. In fact, they have a naturally sweeter flavor and a softer texture than their orange counterparts. Whether you’re looking for a side dish, a main course, or a dessert, white sweet potatoes offer endless possibilities.
In this article, we’ll explore 20 mouthwatering recipes that showcase the best of what white sweet potatoes have to offer. From comforting classics like mashed sweet potatoes with brown butter to innovative twists like sweet potato pancakes with maple syrup, these recipes will inspire you to get creative in the kitchen and make the most of this amazing ingredient.
Roasted White Sweet Potatoes with Garlic and Rosemary
Elevate your side dish game with this simple yet flavorful recipe that combines the natural sweetness of white sweet potatoes with the pungency of garlic and rosemary. Perfect for a cozy night in or as a accompaniment to your favorite main course.
Ingredients:
– 2-3 large white sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 4 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 sprigs of fresh rosemary, chopped
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss sweet potatoes with garlic, rosemary, and olive oil until they are evenly coated.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Spread the sweet potato mixture on a baking sheet in a single layer.
5. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until sweet potatoes are tender and caramelized.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
White Sweet Potato and Coconut Curry
This vibrant curry brings together the natural sweetness of white sweet potatoes with the creamy richness of coconut milk. A perfect blend of flavors for a quick and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 large white sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 can (14 oz) full-fat coconut milk
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pan, heat 2 tablespoons of oil over medium heat.
2. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the garlic, ginger, curry powder, and turmeric. Cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the diced sweet potatoes and stir to combine with the spice mixture.
5. Pour in the coconut milk and bring to a simmer.
6. Reduce heat to low and let cook for 15-20 minutes or until the sweet potatoes are tender.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves and serve over rice or with naan bread.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
White Sweet Potato Mash with Brown Butter
Transform plain mashed sweet potatoes into a rich and creamy delight by adding the nutty flavor of brown butter.
Ingredients:
– 2 large white sweet potatoes, peeled and chopped into 1-inch cubes
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
– Salt, to taste
– Optional: milk or cream (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Place the sweet potato cubes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
3. Roast the sweet potatoes in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until they are tender when pierced with a fork.
4. Remove the sweet potatoes from the oven and let them cool slightly.
5. In a large saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.
6. Continue cooking the butter, stirring occasionally, until it turns golden brown and has a nutty aroma (about 5-7 minutes).
7. Mash the roasted sweet potatoes with a fork or potato masher until smooth.
8. Add the browned butter to the mashed sweet potatoes and stir until combined.
9. Season with salt to taste. If desired, add milk or cream for an extra creamy mash.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes (roasting) + 5-7 minutes (browning butter)
White Sweet Potato Fries with Smoked Paprika
Elevate your snack game with these crispy white sweet potato fries infused with the rich flavor of smoked paprika. Perfect for a quick and delicious accompaniment to your favorite movie or TV show.
Ingredients:
– 2-3 large white sweet potatoes
– 1/2 cup vegetable oil
– 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut the sweet potatoes into long, thin strips (about 1/2 inch thick).
3. In a large bowl, mix together the vegetable oil, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
4. Add the sweet potato strips to the bowl and toss until they are evenly coated with the oil mixture.
5. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and arrange the sweet potato strips in a single layer.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until crispy, flipping halfway through.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
White Sweet Potato and Kale Soup
This comforting soup combines the natural sweetness of white sweet potatoes with the earthy flavor of kale, all wrapped up in a creamy broth. Perfect for a chilly evening or a quick lunch.
Ingredients:
– 2 large white sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 bunch of kale, stems removed and chopped
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onion and garlic until softened.
2. Add the diced sweet potatoes and broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes are tender.
3. Stir in the chopped kale and cook until wilted.
4. Use an immersion blender (or transfer soup to a blender) to puree the mixture until smooth.
5. Add heavy cream or half-and-half, if using, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Baked White Sweet Potato with Cinnamon and Honey
Discover the perfect comfort food! This simple recipe transforms a humble white sweet potato into a warm, aromatic treat that’s sure to satisfy your cravings.
Ingredients:
– 2-3 large white sweet potatoes
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1 tbsp pure honey
– Salt (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Scrub the sweet potatoes clean and pat dry with a paper towel.
3. Poke some holes in each potato with a fork to allow steam to escape.
4. Rub the cinnamon all over the sweet potatoes, making sure they’re evenly coated.
5. Place the sweet potatoes directly on the middle rack of the oven.
6. Bake for 45-60 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
7. Remove from the oven and drizzle with honey. Sprinkle salt to taste (if using).
8. Serve warm and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 45-60 minutes
White Sweet Potato Gnocchi with Sage Butter
This recipe combines the natural sweetness of white sweet potatoes with the earthy flavor of sage, all wrapped up in a comforting and pillowy gnocchi dish.
Ingredients:
– 2 large white sweet potatoes
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup semolina flour
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh sage leaves, chopped (about 2 tablespoons)
– Unsalted butter, melted (about 2 tablespoons)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Pierce sweet potatoes with a fork several times and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until tender.
2. Let the sweet potatoes cool, then peel and mash in a bowl.
3. In a separate bowl, combine flours, egg, and salt. Mix well.
4. Add the mashed sweet potatoes to the flour mixture and mix until a dough forms.
5. Divide the dough into 4 equal pieces. Roll out each piece into a long rope.
6. Cut the ropes into 1-inch pieces to form the gnocchi.
7. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the gnocchi for 3-5 minutes, or until they float to the surface.
8. In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add chopped sage and cook for 1 minute.
9. Toss cooked gnocchi with the sage butter and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: Approximately 45-50 minutes (sweet potato cooking time) + 3-5 minutes (gnocchi cooking time).
White Sweet Potato and Black Bean Tacos
This recipe combines the natural sweetness of white sweet potatoes with the savory flavor of black beans, all wrapped up in a crispy taco shell. Perfect for a quick and easy dinner or lunch.
Ingredients:
– 2 large white sweet potatoes
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 onion, diced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8-10 taco shells
– Optional toppings: avocado, sour cream, shredded cheese, cilantro
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Pierce sweet potatoes with a fork several times and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until soft.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add onion, bell pepper, and garlic; cook until tender.
4. Add black beans, cumin, salt, and pepper to the skillet; stir to combine.
5. Once sweet potatoes are cool enough to handle, slice them into thin rounds.
6. Assemble tacos by placing a few slices of sweet potato onto a taco shell, followed by a spoonful of the black bean mixture.
7. Add desired toppings and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes (including sweet potato baking time)
White Sweet Potato Pancakes with Maple Syrup
Start your day off right with these fluffy and flavorful white sweet potato pancakes, topped with a drizzle of pure maple syrup. This recipe is perfect for a weekend brunch or a special treat any time of the year.
Ingredients:
– 2 large white sweet potatoes, cooked and mashed
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 large egg
– 1/2 cup milk
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– Maple syrup, for serving
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
2. Add the mashed sweet potatoes, egg, milk, and melted butter to the dry ingredients. Whisk until smooth.
3. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Drop batter by 1/4 cupfuls onto the skillet.
4. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until bubbles appear on the surface and edges start to dry. Flip and cook for another minute.
5. Serve warm with maple syrup drizzled on top.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
White Sweet Potato and Chickpea Stew
This creamy stew is a perfect blend of comforting flavors, featuring the natural sweetness of white sweet potatoes and the nutty taste of chickpeas. Serve with crusty bread or over rice for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 large white sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 can chickpeas (14.5 oz), drained and rinsed
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, chopped
– 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onion, garlic, and red bell pepper in a little water until tender.
2. Add the diced sweet potatoes, chickpeas, canned tomatoes, vegetable broth, cumin, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
3. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the sweet potatoes are tender.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-45 minutes
White Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecan Crumble
This sweet potato casserole is a comforting and flavorful twist on the classic recipe. The addition of a crunchy pecan crumble adds texture and depth to this sweet and savory dish.
Ingredients:
– 2 large white sweet potatoes, cooked and mashed
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 cup chopped pecans
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine mashed sweet potatoes, sugar, flour, salt, nutmeg, and cinnamon. Mix well.
3. Add heavy cream and melted butter; mix until smooth.
4. Pour mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish.
5. To make pecan crumble, combine chopped pecans, brown sugar, and a pinch of salt in a bowl.
6. Sprinkle pecan crumble evenly over the sweet potato mixture.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until casserole is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
White Sweet Potato and Spinach Salad
This refreshing salad combines the natural sweetness of white sweet potatoes with the earthy flavor of spinach, all tied together with a tangy vinaigrette. Perfect as a side dish or a light lunch.
Ingredients:
– 2 large white sweet potatoes
– 4 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: crumbled goat cheese, chopped walnuts, or diced apples for added texture and flavor
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Pierce sweet potatoes with a fork several times.
2. Bake sweet potatoes for 45-50 minutes, or until tender when pierced.
3. Let cool, then peel and dice into bite-sized pieces.
4. In a large bowl, combine spinach leaves, olive oil, apple cider vinegar, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat.
5. Add diced sweet potatoes to the bowl and toss to combine.
6. Serve immediately, or refrigerate for up to 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes (sweet potatoes) + 10 minutes (assembly)
White Sweet Potato and Bacon Hash
A twist on traditional potato hash, this recipe combines the natural sweetness of white sweet potatoes with the smoky flavor of crispy bacon.
Ingredients:
– 2 large white sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
– 6 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooking oil or butter for frying
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine sweet potatoes, onion, and garlic.
3. Drizzle with cooking oil or butter and season with salt and pepper. Toss to coat.
4. Spread the mixture on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes are tender and lightly caramelized.
6. Stir in crumbled bacon and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
White Sweet Potato Gratin with Gruyère Cheese
This creamy gratin elevates the humble sweet potato to new heights, pairing it with the rich flavors of Gruyère cheese and a hint of nutmeg. A perfect side dish for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 large white sweet potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup grated Gruyère cheese
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Freshly ground nutmeg to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine sweet potato slices, softened butter, salt, and pepper; toss until coated.
3. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish; arrange in an even layer.
4. Sprinkle Gruyère cheese evenly over the sweet potatoes.
5. Pour heavy cream over the cheese; season with nutmeg to taste.
6. Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes are tender and the top is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
White Sweet Potato and Lentil Curry
This vibrant and flavorful curry is a perfect blend of sweet and savory, featuring tender white sweet potatoes and nutritious lentils. Serve over rice or with naan for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 large white sweet potato, peeled and diced
– 1 cup red or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup vegetable broth
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat 2 tablespoons of oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add onions and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add garlic, cumin, curry powder, and turmeric; cook for 1 minute.
4. Add sweet potatoes, lentils, diced tomatoes, and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until sweet potatoes are tender.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped cilantro, if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
White Sweet Potato Pie with Spiced Whipped Cream
This creamy pie combines the natural sweetness of white sweet potatoes with a hint of warm spices, topped with a dollop of whipped cream infused with cinnamon and nutmeg. Perfect for the fall season or as a unique dessert option.
Ingredients:
For the crust:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
– 1/4 cup ice-cold water
For the filling:
– 2 large white sweet potatoes, cooked and mashed
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 large egg yolks
For the spiced whipped cream:
– 1 cup heavy cream, chilled
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Prepare the crust according to package instructions or a simple pastry recipe.
3. In a separate bowl, combine mashed sweet potatoes, sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Beat in heavy cream and egg yolks until smooth.
4. Pour the filling into the prepared crust and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center is slightly jiggly.
5. Whip chilled cream with granulated sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg until stiff peaks form.
6. Serve pie warm with a dollop of spiced whipped cream on top.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
White Sweet Potato and Ginger Soup
This comforting soup is a perfect blend of sweet and spicy, using the natural sweetness of white sweet potatoes and the invigorating warmth of ginger. This easy-to-make recipe is a great way to warm up on a chilly day.
Ingredients:
– 2 large white sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1-inch piece of fresh ginger, grated
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: heavy cream or coconut cream for serving
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onion and garlic in a little water until softened.
2. Add the diced sweet potatoes, grated ginger, vegetable broth, and cumin. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until sweet potatoes are tender.
3. Use an immersion blender or transfer soup to a blender to puree until smooth.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, with optional heavy cream or coconut cream for added richness.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
White Sweet Potato Dumplings in Broth
Warm up with this cozy recipe featuring tender sweet potato dumplings floating in a savory broth. Perfect for a chilly evening or a comforting meal anytime!
Ingredients:
– 2 large white sweet potatoes, cooked and mashed
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil
– 2 cups chicken broth
– Fresh parsley or thyme for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine mashed sweet potatoes, flour, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth.
2. Gradually add the vegetable oil, mixing until a dough forms.
3. Divide the dough into 8-10 equal pieces. Shape each piece into a ball.
4. Bring the chicken broth to a simmer in a large pot. Add the dumplings, cover, and cook for 15-20 minutes or until they float to the surface.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
White Sweet Potato and Peanut Butter Cookies
Discover a unique twist on traditional peanut butter cookies by incorporating the natural sweetness of white sweet potatoes! These chewy treats are perfect for snack time or as a special treat.
Ingredients:
– 2 large white sweet potatoes, cooked and mashed
– 1 cup creamy peanut butter
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1 egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, cream peanut butter and butter until smooth. Add sugar, egg, and vanilla extract; mix well.
3. Stir in mashed sweet potatoes, flour, baking soda, and salt until a dough forms.
4. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.
5. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
6. Remove from oven and let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
White Sweet Potato and Sage Risotto
This creamy risotto celebrates the flavors of winter, pairing tender white sweet potatoes with the earthy warmth of sage. A perfect side dish for a chilly evening.
Ingredients:
– 1 large white sweet potato, peeled and diced
– 2 cups Arborio rice
– 4 cups vegetable broth, warmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 sprigs fresh sage, chopped
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss sweet potato with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until tender.
3. In a large saucepan, heat broth over medium heat. Keep warm.
4. In a separate pan, sauté onion and garlic in olive oil until softened. Add Arborio rice; cook for 1 minute.
5. Add 1/2 cup warmed broth to rice mixture, stirring until absorbed. Repeat process, adding broth in 1/2-cup increments, until rice is cooked (about 20-25 minutes).
6. Stir in roasted sweet potato and chopped sage. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve warm, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 45-50 minutes.
Summary
Discover the versatility of white sweet potatoes with these 20 delicious recipes. From savory dishes like Roasted White Sweet Potatoes with Garlic and Rosemary, to comforting soups like White Sweet Potato and Kale Soup, there’s something for everyone. Indulge in sweet treats like White Sweet Potato Pie with Spiced Whipped Cream or try your hand at innovative meals like White Sweet Potato Gnocchi with Sage Butter. Whether you’re looking for a quick snack or a hearty meal, these recipes showcase the versatility of white sweet potatoes and will inspire you to get creative in the kitchen.
