Ingredient substitution guide
Best substitutes for sweet potatoes
Best swap for sweet potatoes: Yams, 1:1; in US grocery stores these are typically the same thing.
How we checked this: these swaps come from the substitution list Well Stockd uses to match recipes, and their ratios follow ordinary kitchen practice rather than one published chart. For exact amounts on many common swaps, see the NDSU and Colorado State University extension tables listed below. Editorial policy
What can I use instead of Sweet Potatoes?
The best swap for Sweet Potatoes is Yams, 1:1; in US grocery stores these are typically the same thing. Another option is Butternut Squash, 1:1 cubed; similar sweetness and texture when roasted. The table below also lists Carrots and Russet Potatoes, 4 swaps in all.
| Swap | Ratio and notes |
|---|---|
| Yams | 1:1; in US grocery stores these are typically the same thing |
| Butternut squash | 1:1 cubed; similar sweetness and texture when roasted |
| Carrots | 1:1 by weight; less starchy, sweeter when roasted, shorter cook time |
| Russet potatoes | 1:1; starchier and less sweet, works in savory applications |
Source and limits
These swaps come from the substitution list Well Stockd uses to match recipes to your kitchen, last updated . We remove swaps known to be unsafe, but not every swap has been tested in a kitchen, and a swap is cooking guidance, not an allergen or nutrition equivalent. Check labels and what the recipe needs before substituting.
The ratios and usage notes follow ordinary kitchen practice rather than a single published chart. These two university extension tables list exact amounts for many common swaps:
- Ingredient Substitutions (FN198), NDSU Extension (opens in a new tab)
- Ingredient Substitutions (9.329), Colorado State University Extension (opens in a new tab)
Browse every ingredient and read how these swaps are sourced.
Buying more? Storage times for sweet potatoes