How to Make Sweet Potatoes Recipes for Kids: 7 Tasty Recipes

As a busy parent, finding meals that are both healthy and kid-approved can feel like a constant battle. But what if I told you there’s a magical ingredient that’s not only nutritious but also loved by even the pickiest eaters? Sweet potatoes! From crispy tots to creamy mash, these versatile veggies can turn mealtime into a fun and flavorful adventure your kids will look forward to. Ready to make your kids’ new favorite meals? Let’s dive into these 7 tasty sweet potato recipes!

Sweet potatoes are among the most nutritious and versatile vegetables, making them ideal for kids’ meals. Packed with essential vitamins like Vitamin A, fiber, and antioxidants, sweet potatoes support healthy growth and help boost immunity. While these vibrant orange veggies are delicious on their own, turning them into fun, kid-friendly recipes is a great way to get your little ones excited about eating healthy.

In this post, we’ll share 7 tasty and easy-to-make sweet potato recipes that will have your kids begging for more. From crispy sweet potato tots to creamy mashed sweet potatoes, these recipes are perfect for toddlers, picky eaters, and anyone looking to add a nutritious twist to their meals. Whether you’re preparing snacks, sides, or main dishes, these recipes are simple, customizable, and most importantly, delicious!

1. Homemade Sweet Potato Tots

Sweet potato tots are a fun and healthy twist on the classic tater tots, and they’re sure to be a hit with kids! These crispy, bite-sized treats are packed with flavor, and their natural sweetness makes them irresistible to little ones. Plus, they’re simple to make and a great way to sneak in some extra nutrients.

Ingredients

To make homemade sweet potato tots, you’ll need:

• 2 medium sweet potatoes
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (use gluten-free if preferred)
• 1/4 cup grated cheese (optional, but adds extra flavor)
• 1 egg (for binding)
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• Olive oil spray for baking

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prep the Sweet Potatoes: Peel and chop the sweet potatoes into small cubes. Boil or steam them until soft, about 10–15 minutes. Once cooked, mash them with a fork or potato masher until smooth.
2. Mix the Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the mashed sweet potatoes, breadcrumbs, cheese (if using), egg, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well until everything is evenly incorporated.
3. Shape the Tots: Scoop out tablespoon-sized portions of the mixture and roll them into small tots. You should have about 15–20 tots, depending on the size.
4. Bake: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the tots on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Lightly spray with olive oil to help them crisp up. Bake for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy on the outside.
5. Serve and Enjoy: Let the tots cool slightly before serving. They’re delicious on their own or paired with a healthy dip like yogurt or ketchup.

Variations and Substitutions

• Add-ins: For extra nutrition, you can add finely chopped spinach, carrots, or zucchini to the mixture.
• Seasonings: Feel free to get creative with spices! Paprika, cumin, or even cinnamon can add a fun twist to these tots.
• Dairy-Free: To make these tots dairy-free, simply omit the cheese or substitute with a dairy-free alternative.

Tips for Success

• Crispier Tots: For the crispiest tots, be sure to spray them lightly with olive oil before baking. You can also cook them in an air fryer for an even crunchier texture.
• Perfect Shape: If the mixture is too sticky, try refrigerating it for 15–20 minutes before shaping the tots to make it easier to handle.

Serving Suggestions

Sweet potato tots are perfect as a snack, side dish, or even a main meal for little ones. Serve them with a dipping sauce like ketchup, ranch dressing, or a creamy yogurt dip. They also pair well with grilled chicken, a veggie salad, or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal.

Storage

Leftovers? No problem! Store any uneaten sweet potato tots in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze them for up to 2 months. To reheat, bake them in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10 minutes until crispy again.

2. Easy Roasted Sweet Potatoes

Roasted sweet potatoes are one of the simplest and most delicious ways to enjoy this nutritious vegetable. The natural sweetness of the sweet potatoes caramelizes as they roast, creating a crispy exterior and a soft, fluffy interior that kids will love. Plus, they’re super easy to make and can be served as a snack, side dish, or even as a base for a meal.

Why Kids Love Roasted Sweet Potatoes

Sweet potatoes are naturally sweet and tender, making them a perfect food for kids. Roasting them brings out their sweetness even more while giving them a satisfying, crispy texture on the outside. Roasted sweet potatoes are a versatile dish that can be customized with different seasonings to suit your child’s taste.

Ingredients You Need

• 2 large sweet potatoes
• 1–2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 tsp paprika (optional, for added flavor)
• Fresh parsley or thyme for garnish (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Prep the Sweet Potatoes: Peel the sweet potatoes (optional) and cut them into 1-inch cubes or wedges, depending on your preference.
3. Season the Sweet Potatoes: Place the cut sweet potatoes on a large baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil and toss to coat. Sprinkle with garlic powder, salt, pepper, and paprika, if using. Toss again to make sure all the pieces are evenly seasoned.
4. Roast: Arrange the sweet potatoes in a single layer on the baking sheet, making sure they aren’t overcrowded. This will help them cook evenly and get crispy. Roast for 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are golden brown and tender when pierced with a fork.
5. Serve and Enjoy: Remove from the oven and garnish with fresh parsley or thyme if desired. Serve immediately as a side dish, snack, or part of a larger meal.

How to Store

Still, store them in a watertight vessel in the fridge for over 3 days. Roasted sweet potatoes can also be frozen for up to 2 months. To reheat, bake them at 375°F (190°C) for about 10 minutes or microwave them for 1–2 minutes.

Best Tips for Success

• Crispy Texture: To ensure your roasted sweet potatoes are extra crispy, be sure to space them out on the baking sheet so they don’t overlap. You can also use parchment paper to prevent food from sticking and promote even roasting.
• Seasoning Variations: Experiment with different seasonings! A sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg can add a sweet twist, while chili powder or cumin gives them a savory kick.
• Cut Evenly: Try to cut the sweet potatoes into uniform pieces to ensure even cooking.

Serving Suggestions

Roasted sweet potatoes can be served as a standalone snack or paired with other meals. They make a great side dish to grilled chicken, fish, or beef. You can also top them with a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt or serve them alongside a healthy dip like guacamole or hummus.

3. Easy Mashed Sweet Potatoes

Mashed sweet potatoes are a creamy, comforting dish that’s perfect for kids of all ages. Whether you’re serving them as a side dish or mixing them into a main meal, they’re naturally sweet, nutrient-packed, and incredibly easy to make. This recipe is a great way to introduce more vegetables into your child’s diet while satisfying their taste buds with a smooth, velvety texture.

Why We Love Mashed Sweet Potatoes

Mashed sweet potatoes are not only delicious but also packed with vitamins like Vitamin A, which supports healthy vision and immune function. Their natural sweetness makes them a favorite among kids, and they’re incredibly versatile—you can make them savory or sweet, depending on your child’s preferences. Plus, they’re soft and easy for babies and toddlers to eat, making them an excellent choice for family meals.

Ingredients For Mashed Sweet Potatoes

• 3 large sweet potatoes
• 2 tbsp butter (or dairy-free butter for a vegan version)
• 1/4 cup milk (or non-dairy milk like almond or oat milk)
• 1/2 tsp cinnamon (optional, for a hint of sweetness)
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/8 tsp ground nutmeg (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prep the Sweet Potatoes: Peel and chop the sweet potatoes into large chunks for quicker cooking.
2. Cook the Sweet Potatoes: Place the chopped sweet potatoes in a large pot and cover them with water. Bring to a boil and cook for about 10–15 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes are fork-tender.
3. Mash the Sweet Potatoes: Drain the water and return the sweet potatoes to the pot. Use a potato masher to mash them until smooth. If you prefer a creamier texture, you can use a hand mixer or food processor.
4. Add Butter and Milk: Stir in the butter and milk until fully incorporated. Adjust the consistency by adding more milk if needed.
5. Season: Add cinnamon, salt, and nutmeg, and stir until everything is well-mixed. Taste and adjust the seasoning as desired.
6. Serve and Enjoy: Serve the mashed sweet potatoes warm, either as a side dish or as a base for other meals.

How to Store

If you have leftovers, store the mashed sweet potatoes in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. They can also be frozen for up to 2 months. To reheat, simply microwave them or warm them on the stove with a little extra milk to restore the creamy texture.

Best Tips for Success

• Smooth Texture: For the smoothest mashed sweet potatoes, be sure to cook them thoroughly until they’re very soft. If you’re using a hand mixer, don’t overmix, as this can cause the potatoes to become too watery.
• Creamier Mashed Sweet Potatoes: If you prefer your mashed sweet potatoes extra creamy, try adding a tablespoon of cream cheese or sour cream.
• Flavor Variations: Experiment with different spices! A little maple syrup or brown sugar can make them sweeter, while garlic powder or herbs like thyme can add a savory touch.

Serving Suggestions

Mashed sweet potatoes are a fantastic side dish for any meal. They pair perfectly with roasted meats like chicken, turkey, or pork. You can also use them as a filling for savory pies, top them with a dollop of yogurt or cream cheese for added richness, or serve them alongside roasted vegetables for a complete meal

4. Favorite Sweet Potato Tots Recipe

Sweet potato tots are a fan favorite for both kids and adults alike. These crispy, golden bites are perfect for little hands and are packed with all the nutrition of sweet potatoes. Whether you’re serving them as a snack, a side dish, or a fun meal, this recipe will quickly become a go-to in your kitchen. Plus, they’re easy to make, versatile, and can be customized with various seasonings to suit your family’s tastes.

Sweet Potato Recipes for Toddlers & Babies

Sweet potato tots are ideal for toddlers because they’re soft on the inside yet crispy on the outside, making them the perfect finger food. If you’re making them for babies, simply reduce the seasonings and ensure the tots are cut into small pieces to prevent choking hazards. Sweet potatoes are also rich in Vitamin A, which supports healthy growth and vision, making them a great choice for your little ones.

Ingredients for Sweet Potato Tots

• 2 medium sweet potatoes
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (use gluten-free if necessary)
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for added flavor)
• 1 egg
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp onion powder
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• Olive oil spray (for baking)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Sweet Potatoes: Peel and chop the sweet potatoes into chunks. Boil or steam them for about 10–15 minutes until they are soft and easily mashable. Once cooked, mash them with a fork or potato masher until smooth.
2. Mix the Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the mashed sweet potatoes, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese (if using), egg, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix everything until it’s well-combined and forms a dough-like consistency.
3. Shape the Tots: Scoop out about a tablespoon of the mixture and roll it into a small tot shape, similar to a traditional tater tot. Place each tot onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly spray the tots with olive oil for a crispier texture. Bake for 20–25 minutes, flipping them halfway through, until they are golden brown and crispy on the outside.
5. Serve and Enjoy: Let the tots cool slightly before serving. They’re perfect with a side of ketchup, ranch dressing, or a creamy yogurt dip.

Sweet Potato Recipes for Picky Eaters

If your child is a picky eater, sweet potato tots are a great way to introduce them to a nutritious vegetable. The crispy exterior and mild, slightly sweet flavor make these tots irresistible. You can also adjust the seasoning to suit your child’s taste preferences—try adding cinnamon or mild spices like paprika for a different twist.

What to Mix with Sweet Potato for Baby?

If you’re making sweet potato tots for babies or toddlers, you can mix the mashed sweet potatoes with pureed fruits like apples or pears to add natural sweetness and flavor. You can also incorporate finely chopped spinach or carrots to increase your vegetable intake without compromising taste.

Can you indurate  Sweet Potato Tots?

Yes, sweet potato tots are perfect for freezing! To freeze them, arrange the uncooked tots on a baking sheet and place them in the freezer until they are solid, about 2–3 hours. Once firmed, transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag. When you’re ready to serve them, bake directly from frozen at 400°F (200°C) for 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway through.

5. More Recipes You’ll Love

If you and your kids love these sweet potato recipes, you’re in for a treat! Sweet potatoes are incredibly versatile and can be used in a variety of dishes to satisfy even the pickiest eaters. Below, we’ve rounded up more sweet potato recipes that are perfect for kids, offering a mix of nutritious snacks, meals, and sides that everyone will enjoy.

1. Sweet Potato Pancakes

Why not start the day with some sweet potato pancakes? These fluffy pancakes are a great way to sneak in extra vitamins while satisfying your child’s sweet tooth. Simply blend mashed sweet potatoes into your pancake batter, add a dash of cinnamon, and cook until golden brown. Serve with maple syrup and a side of fruit for a well-rounded breakfast.

2. Sweet Potato Fries

Sweet potato fries are a classic favorite that kids love. With their natural sweetness and crispy texture, these fries are a healthier alternative to regular fries. Simply cut sweet potatoes into thin strips, toss them with olive oil and your favorite seasonings, then bake them in the oven at 425°F (220°C) for 20-25 minutes until crispy. Pair with a dip like ketchup or homemade yogurt sauce for an irresistible snack.

3. Sweet Potato Quesadillas

For a fun and flavorful lunch or dinner, try sweet potato quesadillas! Spread mashed sweet potatoes on a tortilla, add cheese, beans, and your choice of veggies, then cook in a skillet until golden and crispy. Cut into wedges and serve with salsa or guacamole. This is a great way to introduce your kids to different textures and flavors.

4. Sweet Potato and Black Bean Chili

A comforting and hearty meal, sweet potato and black bean chili is perfect for a cozy dinner. The combination of sweet potatoes, black beans, and spices creates a filling dish that’s also full of nutrients. You can serve it with some cornbread or over brown rice for a complete meal. It’s also easy to make in large batches and freeze for later!

5. Sweet Potato Muffins

Sweet potato muffins are a delicious and healthy snack that your kids will love. Simply incorporate mashed sweet potatoes into your muffin batter, along with spices like cinnamon and nutmeg, for a cozy baked treat. These muffins are perfect for breakfast or a lunchbox snack, and they can be made in advance for convenience.

6. Sweet Potato Smoothie

Looking for a quick and nutritious snack? A sweet potato smoothie is an easy and fun way to add more veggies to your child’s diet. Blend cooked sweet potatoes, banana, milk (or non-dairy milk), a bit of honey, and a dash of cinnamon. It’s creamy, sweet, and full of vitamins—perfect for a nutritious drink on the go.

7. Sweet Potato Mac and Cheese

This creamy, cheesy dish takes traditional mac and cheese to the next level with the addition of sweet potatoes. Blend cooked sweet potatoes into the cheese sauce for added creaminess and a subtle sweetness that pairs perfectly with the sharpness of cheddar. Your kids won’t even realize they’re eating a serving of vegetables!

8. Sweet Potato Casserole

If you’re looking for a hearty, comforting meal, try sweet potato casserole. This dish features mashed sweet potatoes baked with a buttery brown sugar topping (and sometimes with marshmallows). It’s a crowd-pleaser for family gatherings or holiday dinners but also makes a fantastic side dish for everyday meals.

These additional sweet potato recipes offer a variety of delicious and nutritious ways to incorporate sweet potatoes into your family’s diet. Whether you’re looking for snacks, meals, or sides, these dishes are perfect for kids and can be customized to fit their tastes. Try them all and find new favorites that everyone will love!

FAQs

1. Can I make sweet potato recipes for babies?

Yes! Sweet potatoes are a great food for babies due to their soft texture and natural sweetness. For babies under one year old, you can make mashed sweet potatoes or sweet potato tots, ensuring they are cut into small, easy-to-eat pieces. You can also experiment with pureeing sweet potatoes and mixing them with fruits or vegetables your baby already enjoys.

2. Are sweet potatoes healthy for kids?

Absolutely! Sweet potatoes are packed with essential vitamins and minerals, especially Vitamin A, which supports healthy vision and immunity. They’re also a great source of fiber, which helps with digestion. These nutrient-rich vegetables are a delicious and healthy option for your child’s meals.

3. Can I make sweet potato recipes ahead of time?

Yes, most sweet potato recipes can be made ahead of time. For instance, mashed sweet potatoes and sweet potato tots can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days or frozen for longer storage. Just reheat them when ready to serve!

4. Can I use frozen sweet potatoes for these recipes?

While fresh sweet potatoes tend to give the best results, you can use frozen sweet potatoes if needed. Just ensure they are thoroughly thawed and cooked before using them in any recipe to maintain the desired texture.

5. What if my kid doesn’t like the taste of sweet potatoes?

Sweet potatoes have a mild, naturally sweet flavor, but some kids may need a little time to get used to them. If your child is picky, try incorporating sweet potatoes into dishes they already love, like adding them to quesadillas or mixing them into mashed potatoes. You can also experiment with different seasonings to enhance the flavor.

6. How can I make sweet potato recipes for picky eaters?

To please picky eaters, try making sweet potatoes into crispy snacks, like sweet potato fries or tots, which are more familiar and fun for kids. You can also mix in different flavors like cheese, cinnamon, or garlic to cater to your child’s taste. Making the recipe interactive, such as allowing them to dip or assemble their dish, can also increase their excitement to eat.

7. Can I add other vegetables to sweet potato recipes?

Yes, you can easily add other vegetables to sweet potato recipes. For example, you can mix spinach or carrots into mashed sweet potatoes or add peas and beans to sweet potato tots. This not only boosts the nutritional value but also helps your child explore new flavors.

8. How do I make sweet potatoes less sweet for kids who don’t like the taste of sweetness?

If your child finds sweet potatoes too sweet, try using savory seasonings to balance the flavor. For example, you can add garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, or chili powder to roasted or mashed sweet potatoes to create a more savory taste.

Conclusion

Sweet potatoes are not only a nutritious powerhouse but also a versatile ingredient that can be transformed into a variety of delicious meals that kids will love. From crispy homemade sweet potato tots to creamy mashed sweet potatoes, there’s a recipe for every child’s taste and preference. These sweet potato recipes are perfect for picky eaters, toddlers, and even babies, offering a fun and tasty way to introduce more vegetables into your child’s diet.

Whether you’re looking for healthy snacks, side dishes, or main meals, sweet potatoes can easily be incorporated into your family’s routine. Plus, with so many variations to choose from, you’ll never run out of creative ideas for keeping your little ones excited about mealtime.

So, get cooking and try out these 7 tasty sweet potato recipes today! Your kids (and their growing bodies) will thank you for it. And don’t forget to explore the other sweet potato dishes we’ve shared for even more family-friendly meal options. Happy cooking!