Canned yams are a convenient pantry staple that can be transformed into comforting baked dishes with minimal effort. Here are three simple methods for preparing canned yams—on the stovetop, in the oven topped with marshmallows, and in the microwave.
1. How To Cook Canned Yams on the Stove
Simmering yams on the stovetop allows their natural sweetness to intensify. This stovetop method takes just 15 minutes.
Ingredients
- 1 (15-ounce) can yams, drained
- 2 tablespoons butter or olive oil
- 1/4 cup maple syrup or brown sugar
- Pinch of cinnamon
Instructions
Drain the liquid from the canned yams and place them in a saucepan over medium heat.
Add the butter/oil and stir to coat the yams. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until heated through.
Stir in the maple syrup/brown sugar and cinnamon. Allow the sauce to come to a gentle bubble.
Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10 more minutes, stirring occasionally, until the yams are tender and the sauce has thickened.
Taste and season further with salt and pepper if desired. Serve hot as a comforting side dish.
2. How To Cook Canned Yams in Oven
Baking yams with a gooey marshmallow topping is a classic Thanksgiving side. Use this oven method whenever a sweet, sticky treat is called for.
Ingredients
- 1 (29-ounce) can yams, drained
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup butter, softened
- 1 cup miniature marshmallows
Instructions
Drain the yams and place in an 8×8 baking dish. Sprinkle with the brown sugar.
Use a spoon or clean hands to mash the butter into the yams until well combined.
Top with a single layer of marshmallows.
Bake at 350°F for 20-25 minutes, until the marshmallows are melted and golden brown.
Broil for 1-2 minutes if extra browning is desired. Watch closely so the marshmallows don’t burn.
Enjoy the gooey sweetness fresh from the oven.
3. How To Cook Canned Yams in Microwave
For the quickest preparation, simply zapping canned yams in the microwave does the trick.
Ingredients
- 1 (15-ounce) can yams, drained
- 2 tablespoons butter or olive oil
- 1-2 tablespoons brown sugar or maple syrup
Instructions
Drain the yams and place in a microwave-safe dish.
Stir in the butter/oil and brown sugar/maple syrup until well combined.
Microwave on High in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until heated through, 2 to 3 minutes total.
The yams are done when piping hot throughout. Season to taste as desired.
Serve warm as a quick side or whenever an instant sweet potato fix is needed. Enjoy!
With these three easy methods, canned yams can become a flavorful part of any meal with just a few simple ingredients and steps. Simmered, baked or microwaved—canned yams are convenient and comforting any way you cook them.
