These roasted sweet potatoes are golden, crispy on the outside, and soft on the inside. Tossed with just a sprinkle of salt and a bit of olive oil, they are super simple yet oh-so-tasty!
I can’t help but snack on them straight from the oven. They’re perfect as a side or even a healthy treat on their own. Just make sure to save some for dinner! 🥔❤️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Sweet Potatoes: The star of this dish! Look for firm, smooth ones. If you can’t find sweet potatoes, you can use butternut squash or regular potatoes, but the flavor will differ.
Olive Oil: This adds richness. A light olive oil works well, but feel free to use avocado oil for a neutral taste or coconut oil for a different flavor.
Seasonings: Garlic powder and paprika enhance flavor. If you don’t have them, onion powder or chili powder can be great alternatives. Experiment to find your favorite.
Fresh Herbs: While optional, herbs like thyme or rosemary add freshness. If those aren’t available, try dried herbs or even a sprinkle of parsley before serving for color.
How Do I Get Perfectly Roasted Sweet Potatoes?
Roasting sweet potatoes perfectly involves a few key steps. The goal is a crispy exterior with a soft, tender inside. Here’s how to achieve that:
- Preheat the oven well. This helps in crisping them up. 425°F is ideal.
- Cut evenly. Keep the sweet potato cubes around 1 inch for uniform cooking.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan. This ensures they roast rather than steam. If necessary, use two baking sheets.
- Flip halfway. This promotes even browning. It’s a simple step that makes a big difference!
Trust me, sticking to these tips will give you tasty results every time! Enjoy your roasted sweet potatoes!
Best Ever Roasted Sweet Potatoes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Roasted Sweet Potatoes:
- 2 lbs sweet potatoes, peeled and diced into 1-inch cubes
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp garlic powder (optional)
- 1 tsp paprika (optional)
- Fresh herbs (such as thyme or rosemary) for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 25-30 minutes to roast. In total, you’re looking at around 40 minutes from start to finish for some perfectly roasted sweet potatoes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Begin by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high temperature helps to caramelize the sweet potatoes nicely. To make cleanup easier later on, line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Prepare the Sweet Potatoes:
In a large mixing bowl, toss the diced sweet potatoes with the olive oil, salt, black pepper, and if you’re using them, the garlic powder and paprika. Make sure all the sweet potatoes are coated well in the mixture.
3. Arrange on the Baking Sheet:
Spread the sweet potatoes out in a single layer on the lined baking sheet. It’s important they aren’t overcrowded, so they roast evenly and get crispy edges!
4. Roast to Perfection:
Place the baking sheet in the oven and roast the sweet potatoes for about 25-30 minutes. Remember to flip them halfway through using a spatula to ensure they brown nicely on all sides. They should be tender and beautifully caramelized when done.
5. Garnish and Serve:
Once roasted, take the sweet potatoes out of the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. If you like, sprinkle some fresh herbs on top for added flavor and a pop of color before serving. Enjoy your delicious roasted sweet potatoes!
Can I Use Unsalted Butter Instead of Olive Oil?
Absolutely! You can substitute olive oil with unsalted butter for a richer flavor. Simply melt the butter before tossing it with the sweet potatoes, and keep the same amount as listed in the recipe.
What If I Don’t Have Paprika or Garlic Powder?
No problem! You can skip these ingredients or substitute with other spices. For example, cumin or chili powder can add a nice kick. Just adjust to your taste preference!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. To reheat, warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes for the best texture, or use the microwave if you’re in a hurry.
Can I Prepare the Sweet Potatoes Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can! Dice the sweet potatoes and toss them with the oil and seasonings up to a day in advance. Just cover and refrigerate. When you’re ready to cook, follow the roasting instructions as usual.
