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Show-stopping sweet potatoes: 5 easy new recipes for this Thanksgiving standby

There are so many creative ways to use sweet potato in Thanksgiving sides.
/ Source: TODAY

The classic marshmallow-topped sweet potato casserole graces many holiday tables for a reason. But think about what you might be missing out on. This nutritious tuber, packed full of vitamin A and beta-carotene, is far more versatile than most Thanksgiving spreads would suggest. Sure, its naturally sweet flesh lends itself to more dessert-like preparations, but it also plays off savory and even spicy flavors beautifully.

RELATED: 9 amazing Brussels sprouts recipes to try as a Thanksgiving side

Get creative with Thanksgiving sides and make sweet potato in five different ways
TODAY

Ready to branch out this year? We’ve collected an array of sweet potato recipes to satisfy any taste. Go on: Try one. Who knows? You just might find a new classic for your holiday table.

Thanksgiving side recipe: Honey-roasted sweet potatoes with honey-cinnamon dip
Averie Sunshine / Avery Cooks

Honey-roasted sweet potatoes with honey-cinnamon dip: These sweet potatoes couldn’t be easier to prepare: Simply toss chunks of sweet potato with honey, cinnamon and coconut oil (or sub canola or vegetable oil) and roast. But their flavor is anything but ordinary, thanks to a tangy-sweet yogurt-based dip. You can stick to cinnamon as your primary spice, but ground ginger, cardamom, nutmeg or any combination thereof will work just as well.

Thanksgiving side recipes: Rosemary sweet potato stackers
Kim Rosenberger / Kim's Healthy Eats

Rosemary sweet potato stackers: If you prefer your sweet potatoes a little on the savory side, this rosemary- and Parmesan-inflected recipe just might be your new go-to. The layered, almost architectural look of the stackers will add a little drama to your holiday plate, but don’t worry about any fussy construction — they’re baked in muffin tins to hold them in place.

Thanksgiving side recipe: Curried sweet potato soup
Elizabeth Stark / Brooklyn Supper

Curried sweet potato soup: If served as a first course, this spicy sweet potato soup will really help knock out that November chill. The low burn comes courtesy of Thai red curry, poblano peppers and a little cayenne. Plus, the swirled yogurt garnish and bright sprinkling of Hungarian paprika gives it a festive look.

Thanksgiving side recipes: Sweet potato, kale and quinoa fritters
Ian and Mariana McEnroe / Yes, More Please

Sweet potato, kale and quinoa fritters: Need a side that can also stand in as a main for your vegetarian guests? Quinoa, the only grain that’s also a complete protein, give these wholesome fritters a nice crunch, but the sweet potato lends a little creaminess, too. Vegetarians, you’d better lay claim to these quickly.

Thanksgiving side recipe: Candied pecan sweet potato casserole
Tiffany Johnson / Creme de la Crumb

Candied pecan sweet potato casserole: We know. Some of you will simply not be able to give up your beloved sweet potato casserole. That’s why we offer this twist: A crunchy, candied pecan topping lies hidden between the toasty marshmallow top and the creamy sweet potatoes at the base. Best of all, it can be made in a slow cooker. You’re welcome.

Love sweet potatoes? Here are more recipes to try!

Sweet Potato Tater Tots