These savory sweet potatoes are a delightful mix of creamy goodness and tasty parmesan with herbs. They make for a wonderful side dish that everyone will love!
Whenever I make these, the smell fills the kitchen, and I can’t help but steal a piece or two before serving. Who can resist cheesy, herb-infused goodness? 😊
I enjoy serving them alongside grilled chicken or fish. Plus, they are super easy to prepare—just season, bake, and enjoy the yumminess! Perfect for any meal!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Sweet Potatoes: Medium sweet potatoes are key for this recipe. They are naturally sweet and creamy when cooked. If you can’t find sweet potatoes, you could try butternut squash or regular potatoes, but note they have different flavors and textures.
Olive Oil: I love using olive oil for its rich flavor and health benefits. If you’re looking for a change, avocado oil is a great substitute. It has a high smoke point and adds a mild taste.
Garlic Powder: Garlic powder gives an even garlic flavor. If you prefer fresh garlic, use about one minced clove for more intensity. Just be careful not to burn it during cooking.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds a savory touch. If you’re dairy-free, try nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without the dairy! For a substitute, you could use Pecorino Romano.
How Can I Ensure My Sweet Potatoes Roast Evenly?
Roasting sweet potatoes can be tricky, but here are some tips to get it right. First, make sure your sweet potato cubes are uniform in size, ideally about 1 inch. This ensures they cook at the same rate.
- Use a large mixing bowl to coat the cubes evenly with oil and spices.
- Spread them out on the baking sheet; overcrowding leads to steaming instead of roasting.
- Remember to stir halfway through to promote even browning.
- Keep an eye on the cooking time! Sweet potatoes may vary based on their size and your oven.
This will help you achieve that perfect tender and caramelized texture!
How to Make Savory Sweet Potatoes with Parmesan and Herbs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Sweet Potatoes:
- 4 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced into 1-inch cubes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
For Garnish:
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and 35-40 minutes of cooking time. You’ll spend a few minutes mixing and seasoning your sweet potatoes, then pop them in the oven to roast. Soon, you’ll have a tasty side dish ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by heating your oven to 425°F (220°C). This hot temperature will help to caramelize the sweet potatoes and give them a wonderful flavor.
2. Season the Sweet Potatoes:
In a large mixing bowl, toss the diced sweet potatoes with olive oil, garlic powder, oregano, thyme, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Make sure everything is mixed well, so the sweet potatoes are evenly coated with the delicious seasonings.
3. Arrange for Roasting:
Spread the seasoned sweet potatoes in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Avoid overcrowding them; this ensures they roast nicely and get tender.
4. Roast Away!
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and roast the sweet potatoes for about 25-30 minutes. Make sure to stir them halfway through to promote even cooking. They should become tender and caramelized by the end of this time.
5. Add the Cheese:
Once the sweet potatoes are roasted, take them out of the oven and sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese on top. Return them to the oven for another 5-7 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Your kitchen will smell amazing!
6. Garnish and Serve:
After the sweet potatoes are done, remove them from the oven and let them cool slightly. For a fresh touch, sprinkle with chopped parsley and cilantro if you like. Serve them warm as a delightful side dish. Enjoy your savory sweet potatoes!
Can I Use Other Types of Potatoes?
Absolutely! You can substitute sweet potatoes with regular potatoes, Yukon gold, or even butternut squash. Just adjust the cooking time a bit, as some varieties may take a little longer to become tender. Aim for cubes that are similar in size to ensure even cooking.
How Can I Make This Dish Vegan?
To make this recipe vegan, you can simply omit the Parmesan cheese or use a plant-based cheese alternative. Nutritional yeast is also a fantastic substitute, giving a cheesy flavor without any dairy. Just sprinkle it on the sweet potatoes before the final roast!
What is the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, spread them out on a baking sheet and warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven until heated through, which helps to keep them crispy instead of soggy.
Can I Make This Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prep the sweet potatoes and season them in advance. Just store the seasoned cubes in the fridge for up to a day before roasting. When you’re ready, follow the roasting instructions, and enjoy a delicious side dish without the last-minute hassle!
