These Accordion Sweet Potatoes are seriously such a fun, creative addition to your holiday feast or weeknight dinner. Serve them as an appetizer or side dish that’s sure to impress. Plus, you get to customize the potatoes with any spices of your choice and serve with a smoky aioli for dipping.

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Why you’ll love it

This Accordion Sweet Potatoes recipe is a delightful addition to any holiday spread. The unique accordion-style slicing of the sweet potatoes creates such an impressive presentation too. I won’t lie, they are a labor of love but SO worth it.

What are accordion sweet potatoes?

The term “accordion” refers to the distinctive way in which the sweet potatoes are sliced before cooking. Almost similar to hasselback potatoes.

After slicing them like an accordion, drizzle on oil, seasonings, and then pop them in the oven or air fryer. Once they’re cooked they’ll pull apart like an accordion. They’re almost like a fun spin on traditional fries.

Are sweet potatoes healthy?

In addition to their delicious taste, sweet potatoes are rich in vitamins and fiber. Their vibrant orange color indicates high levels of beta-carotene, a nutrient converted to Vitamin A in the body. 

By baking or air frying these potatoes with minimal oil, you’re able to enjoy their natural sweetness without excess calories. 

We’re also serving them with an aioli using Greek yogurt for an extra protein punch.

What ingredients do you need?

• Sweet Potatoes: Select medium-sized sweet potatoes that are firm and free from blemishes. Wash them thoroughly to remove any dirt or debris. Choosing sweet potatoes of similar size ensures even cooking. I often grab a bag of Bako Sweet Potatoes which are pre-washed and SO delish!
• Cooking Spray: Opt for a cooking spray that is suitable for high-temperature baking. This helps prevent the sweet potatoes from sticking to the baking sheet and promotes even browning. Olive oil or avocado oil sprays are good choices.
• Spices of your choice: Pick high-quality spices based on your flavor preferences. Buying spices in the bulk section of the grocery store can be cost-effective, allowing you to purchase small amounts of each spice needed for the recipe. Then, you can simply refill your own jars too.

How do you cut accordion potatoes?

The cutting technique for the accordion potatoes is the most important part. Let’s break it down. Need more of a visual? Watch this video demoing the cutting in real time.

1. Prep potatoes

Begin by peeling the skin off the sweet potatoes. It’s essential to start with a smooth surface for even slicing. Once peeled, use a sharp knife to cut the potatoes lengthwise into 1/2-inch thick slices. Typically, one sweet potato yields about three slices, so from four sweet potatoes, you should expect around 12 slices in total.

2. Make horizontal cuts

Place a set of chopsticks on each side of one potato slice on your cutting board. These will act as guards, preventing the knife from slicing entirely through the potato. Carefully make small, close horizontal cuts across the length of the potato slice. The chopsticks will ensure you don’t cut all the way through, keeping the bottom intact.

3. Make diagonal cuts

After completing the horizontal cuts, it’s time to flip the potato slices over. Now, you’ll repeat the cutting process, but this time with diagonal cuts. Again, position the chopsticks to avoid cutting through, and make close, diagonal cuts down the length of each potato slice. This dual slicing method is what creates the unique ‘accordion’ effect in the potatoes.

4. Season and add to baking sheet

Once you’ve completed cutting all the potato slices, you should have a set of beautifully prepared accordion potatoes. These should now have a series of intricate cuts that will fan out slightly, perfect for seasoning and cooking. This method ensures not only an appealing look but also allows for even cooking and crispness in every bite.

Watch the tutorial

Need more of a visual of how to assemble these potatoes? Watch my tutorial video below.

Recipe tips and tricks

• Serving Tips: Pair accordion sweet potatoes with a light salad for freshness, or roasted vegetables for a well-rounded meal. The sweetness of the potatoes also complements savory protein dishes like grilled chicken or roasted turkey.
• Troubleshooting Tips: Ensure the sweet potatoes are well-coated with cooking spray to prevent sticking. You can use parchment paper on the baking sheet for easier clean up too.
• Scaling Tips: Feel free to double the recipe and use 8 sweet potatoes if you have them. You may want a chopping helper though!

Customize it your way

Like all of my other recipes, these Accordion Sweet Potatoes are completely customizable. You get to choose what spices you want to use.

• Spices of your choice – Feel free to experiment with a variety of spices, such as cinnamon and nutmeg for a sweet touch or smoked paprika and cumin for some heat, and even savory ones like rosemary or garlic powder.

Can you accordion potatoes with regular potatoes?

Absolutely! Other potatoes varieties like Russets or Yukon Golds work well here. Follow the same methods for chopping. The cook time should generally be the same too–just keep an eye on them at the 30 minute mark to make sure they don’t burn.

Can you make accordion potatoes ahead of time?

These Accordion Sweet Potatoes are best enjoyed fresh to preserve their crispy texture. You can prepare them ahead of time by cutting them into slices and small cuts. Then bake or air fry right before serving.

How do I store leftovers?

If you happen to have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat them in the oven or air fryer to revive their crunch.

Need more help with recipes for your busy schedule?

In my coaching + cooking program, I help busy people with beginner cooking knowledge become confident in the kitchen so that they can enjoy nourishing foods they love and stress less about mealtime. Click here to learn more about this virtual program led by a dietitian.

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Want more? Try these other sweet potato recipes:

• Sweet Potato Power Bowl
• Sweet Potato Kale Salad
• Southwest Quinoa Salad