How to Reheat Sweet Potato – In Six Ways

Orange sweet potato fries

How to reheat sweet potato
Reheating cooked sweet potatoes is simple and effective. You can safely eat them the next day and reheat using methods like the microwave, oven, or air fryer. Each method ensures your sweet potatoes stay delicious and nutritious.

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Hello, beautiful! Today, we’re diving into how to reheat sweet potato. These vibrant root vegetables are not just a cornerstone of a plant-based diet, but they’re also a simple solution for busy bees like you. Are you wondering how to reheat sweet potato in ways that are both quick and delicious? You’re in the right place!

Why Sweet Potatoes Are Amazing

Sweet potatoes, bursting with sweet flavour, are a true gift to your health and beauty routine. Packed with essential vitamins and fiber, they’re a powerhouse of nutrition. 

Baked sweet potato

These versatile root vegetables play a starring role in a myriad of sweet potato recipes, offering not just health benefits but also a range of tastes to delight your palate. From the creamy texture of sweet potato mash to the comfort of a baked sweet potato, there’s so much to explore. Plus, their versatile flavour makes them a perfect fit for both sweet and savory dishes. 

Whether you’re whipping up a quick lunch or preparing a nutritious side dish, sweet potatoes are here to make your meals both healthier and more enjoyable.

How to Reheat Sweet Potato

Can you reheat cooked sweet potatoes? Absolutely! They’re just as delightful the next day. Knowing the best method and / or the quickest method for reheating is key to enjoying these root vegetables at their best. 

Whether you’re warming up a leftover sweet potato casserole or giving new life to some sweet potato fries, the trick is in preserving their natural moisture and sweetness. Reheating sweet potatoes properly ensures they remain a nutritious and tasty part of your meal, no matter how busy your schedule.

Simple Reheating Methods

Microwave

In a rush? The Microwave Method is a lifesaver:

  • Use a microwave-safe dish to quickly reheat sweet potato mash or smaller pieces.
  • It’s a matter of minutes, and you’re good to go.
How to reheat sweet potato - microwave

If you prefer a slightly sautéed texture, try the Stovetop Method:

  • It’s great for reheating sweet potato fries or turning leftover sweet potatoes into a delicious sautéed sweet potatoes dish.
  • Simply heat in a pan until they’re warmed through to your liking.

Air Fryer

For ultra-crispiness using the Air Fryer method, the cooking time can vary based on the air fryer model and the thickness of your sweet potato fries. However, a general guideline is:

Sweet potato fries
  • Preheat your air fryer to around 380°F (193°C).
  • Place the sweet potato fries in the air fryer basket in a single layer for even cooking.
  • Cook for about 7-10 minutes. If your fries are thicker, they might need a couple of extra minutes.
  • Halfway through, give the basket a shake or use tongs to turn the fries for even crispiness.

Always check your fries towards the end of cooking to ensure they reach your desired level of crispiness without getting overly browned.

Stovetop Method

Reheating sweet potatoes in a pan on the stovetop is a great way to retain their texture and flavour. Here’s the best approach:

How to reheat sweet potato - fry pan
  • Preparation: Begin by slicing or cutting your sweet potatoes into even pieces if they are not already prepped. This ensures even reheating.
  • Heating the Pan: Place a pan on the stove over medium heat. You can add a small amount of oil or butter if you prefer, especially for a slightly crispy texture.
  • Reheating: Add the sweet potatoes to the pan. For mashed sweet potatoes, spread them evenly. For slices or wedges, arrange them in a single layer.
  • Cooking Time:
    • For mashed sweet potatoes, heat them for about 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
    • For sliced or whole sweet potatoes, cook for about 5-10 minutes, turning them halfway through to ensure they heat evenly on all sides.
  • Serving: Once they’re heated through to your liking, remove the sweet potatoes from the pan and serve immediately.

Oven

When reheating sweet potatoes in the oven, the time can vary depending on the type and size of the sweet potatoes, as well as your oven’s characteristics. Here’s a general guideline:

Wedges
  • Preheat your oven to about 350°F (175°C).
  • Place the sweet potatoes on an oven rack or in a baking dish. For sweet potato wedges or slices, spread them out in a single layer. If it’s a whole baked sweet potato, place it directly on the rack or in a baking dish.
  • Reheating Time:
    • For sweet potato wedges or slices, reheat for about 10-15 minutes.
    • For a whole baked sweet potato, it might take around 15-20 minutes.
    • If you’re reheating mashed sweet potatoes, spread them in a thin layer in a baking dish and heat for about 10-15 minutes.
  • Check for Readiness: The sweet potatoes should be heated through and, if desired, slightly crispy on the outside.

Toaster Oven

When using a Toaster Oven for reheating leftover sweet potatoes, the process is quite straightforward and efficient, particularly for smaller portions. Here’s a guideline to follow:

  • Preheat your toaster oven to about 350°F (175°C).
  • Place the sweet potatoes in the toaster oven. If they are in a dish, make sure it’s toaster oven-safe.
  • For sweet potato slices or wedges, reheat for about 5-10 minutes. If you’re reheating a whole sweet potato or larger pieces, it may take a bit longer, approximately 15-20 minutes.
  • Check periodically to ensure they’re heating evenly and to your preference.

Instant Pot

Using the Instant Pot to reheat sweet potatoes, especially for retaining moisture and flavour, involves a simple and effective method. Here’s how to do it:

  • Add about 1 cup of water to your Instant Pot. This will create the steam needed for reheating.
  • Place the sweet potatoes, whether it’s mash or whole sweet potatoes, on the trivet inside the pot. This prevents them from getting too soggy.
  • Secure the lid and set the valve to the sealing position.
  • Use the “Steam” function and set the time. For sweet potato mash, a time of about 4-5 minutes should be sufficient. For whole sweet potatoes, depending on their size, you might need to steam them for 10-15 minutes.
  • Once the time is up, carefully release the pressure according to your Instant Pot’s instructions.

Reheating Specific Sweet Potato Dishes

Reheating different types of sweet potato dishes effectively ensures they retain their delicious texture and flavour:

  • Sweet Potato Puree:
    • The best way to reheat is gently on the stovetop or in a microwave-safe dish in the microwave.
    • This approach keeps the puree smooth and creamy.
  • Sweet Potato Mash:
    • It reheats wonderfully in both the microwave and oven.
    • This method brings back the mash’s comforting warmth and texture.
  • Sweet Potato Casserole:
    • For even heating, use a convection oven.
    • This technique preserves the casserole’s delightful texture and flavour.
  • Whole Baked Sweet Potato:
    • Wrap it in aluminium foil and place it in the oven to reheat.
    • This is a simple yet effective way to warm it up.

Creative Serving Ideas

Once your sweet potatoes are reheated, it’s time to get creative:

  • Sweet Potato Wedges:
    • Enhance with a sprinkle of cinnamon or maple syrup for extra flavour.
  • Leftover Sweet Potato Pie:
    • Serve warm with vegan whipped cream for a delectable treat.
  • Sweet Potato Fries:
    • Add a sprinkle of herbs or pair with your favourite plant-based burger.
  • Sweet Potato Mash:
    • Mix in roasted garlic or vegan butter to elevate its taste.

Storing Sweet Potatoes for Later

Effective storage is crucial for keeping your sweet potatoes fresh, flavourful, and reheating-ready. Here’s how to do it right:

For Cooked Sweet Potatoes

  • What To Do: Store dishes like leftover sweet potato casserole or mash in an airtight container.
  • Why: This preserves their moisture and flavour, keeping them delicious for your next meal.

Whole Baked Sweet Potato

  • What To Do: Wrap it in aluminium foil or plastic wrap.
  • Where: Place it in the fridge.
  • Benefit: Extends the freshness of the sweet potato.

Preventing Freezer Burn

  • For Longer Storage: Wrap sweet potatoes in a damp paper towel.
  • Then: Seal them in an airtight container or freezer bag.
  • Result: This extra step helps maintain their taste and texture, ensuring they’re just as good when you reheat them later.

Additional Tips

When it comes to reheating, remember that cooking time and the method used can greatly affect the texture and taste of sweet potatoes. 

For a crispy finish, high heat in an oven or air fryer works wonders. If you’re using an Instant Pot, it’s an easy way to reheat sweet potatoes while retaining their moisture. 

When reheating sweet potato dishes like fries or wedges, placing them in a single layer on a baking tray helps them heat evenly. To ensure your sweet potatoes are warmed through, check their internal temperature. 

And don’t forget, allowing sweet potatoes to come to room temperature before reheating can lead to the best results, especially for dishes like sweet potato pie or a baked potato. 

Sweet potatoes are not just a delicious side dish but a versatile ingredient that can enhance any meal.

How to reheat sweet potato

Sweet potatoes, with their rich, sweet flavour and versatile nature, are more than just a root vegetable; they’re a delightful addition to your plant-based diet. Embracing them in your meals not only brings a burst of nutrition and energy but also adds a touch of simplicity and joy to your cooking. Whether you’re reheating a baked sweet potato for a quick lunch or enjoying sweet potato fries as a tasty snack, these vibrant veggies are here to enhance your journey towards health and beauty. Remember, the right reheating method can make a big difference, ensuring your sweet potatoes are just as delicious the second time around. So, lovely reader, keep enjoying these nutritious gems in your daily diet!

FAQ: How to reheat sweet potato

Can you reheat cooked sweet potatoes?

Yes, you can reheat cooked sweet potatoes. They reheat well using various methods like the oven, microwave, stovetop, air fryer, or Instant Pot.

Can you eat cooked sweet potato the next day?

Absolutely! Cooked sweet potatoes can be safely eaten the next day. Just ensure they are stored properly in the fridge in an airtight container.

How do you reheat sweet potatoes in the air fryer?

To reheat sweet potatoes in the air fryer, preheat it to around 380°F (193°C). Place the sweet potatoes in the basket in a single layer and cook for 7-10 minutes, depending on their thickness. Shake the basket halfway through for even crispiness.

How do you reheat sweet potato puree?

Reheat sweet potato puree gently on the stovetop or in a microwave-safe dish in the microwave. Stir occasionally to ensure even heating and to maintain a smooth, creamy texture.

Is it ok to reheat sweet potatoes in the microwave?

Yes, it’s okay to reheat sweet potatoes in the microwave. It’s a quick and convenient method, especially for dishes like sweet potato mash or smaller pieces. Use a microwave-safe dish and cover to retain moisture.

Do mashed sweet potatoes reheat well?

Mashed sweet potatoes reheat very well. You can use the microwave or oven to reheat them. If using the oven, cover the dish to prevent the mash from drying out.

How long do mashed sweet potatoes last in the fridge?

Mashed sweet potatoes can last in the fridge for about 3-5 days when stored in an airtight container. Make sure they’re cooled to room temperature before refrigerating to maintain their quality.