These savory sweet potatoes topped with parmesan and herbs are a tasty twist for any meal! The creamy sweetness of the potatoes combines perfectly with the crunchy, cheesy topping.
Who knew sweet potatoes could be so fancy? I love serving them as a side dish, and they always get smiles—even from the picky eaters! They’re easy to make and super comforting.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Sweet Potatoes: These are the star of the dish! Look for firm, smooth ones without blemishes. If you can’t find sweet potatoes, butternut squash works well for a similar sweetness.
Olive Oil: A must for roasting, as it brings out the sweet flavor. If you’re looking for a lighter option, feel free to use avocado oil instead—it can handle high heat and adds a nice flavor too!
Parmesan Cheese: This adds a rich, savory flavor. If you’re dairy-free, nutritional yeast can give you a cheesy taste without the dairy. It will not melt like cheese, but it’s a great alternative!
Herbs and Spices: The combination of garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, thyme, and paprika adds depth. Fresh herbs work too! Use fresh thyme and parsley if you have them on hand. They often enhance the flavor even more!
How Can I Make Sure My Sweet Potatoes Are Perfectly Roasted?
The key to roasting sweet potatoes is ensuring they cook evenly and become tender. Here’s how you can do it:
- Cut the sweet potatoes into uniform cubes, about 1-inch pieces. This ensures they roast evenly.
- Toss them well with oil and seasonings in a large bowl. Don’t rush this step—coating them well is crucial for flavor.
- Spread them in a single layer on the baking sheet to avoid steaming—overcrowding can make them mushy.
- Stir halfway through baking to promote even browning. If you want extra crispiness, leave them a bit longer in the oven towards the end.
Keep an eye on them at the 25-minute mark. When they’re fork-tender and golden brown, they’re ready for the Parmesan topping!
How to Make Savory Sweet Potatoes with Parmesan and Herbs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Sweet Potatoes:
- 3 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced into cubes
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and 25-30 minutes to roast. So plan for around 40 minutes total. It’s a simple dish that will fill your kitchen with delightful aromas!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This temperature is just right for roasting those sweet potatoes to perfection!
2. Prepare the Sweet Potatoes:
In a large bowl, add your diced sweet potatoes. Pour in the olive oil and sprinkle the garlic powder, onion powder, dried oregano, dried thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper. Toss everything together until the sweet potatoes are well coated with the olive oil and seasonings. This step is key for that delicious flavor!
3. Spread on a Baking Sheet:
Take a baking sheet and line it with parchment paper for easy cleanup. Spread the seasoned sweet potatoes in a single layer on the sheet, making sure they’re not overcrowded. This helps them roast evenly and become perfectly crispy.
4. Roast the Sweet Potatoes:
Pop the baking sheet into your preheated oven and let the sweet potatoes roast for about 25-30 minutes. Make sure to stir them halfway through so they cook evenly. They should be golden brown and tender when they’re done—your kitchen will smell amazing!
5. Add Parmesan Cheese:
Once the sweet potatoes are roasted, take them out of the oven. Immediately sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the hot sweet potatoes. Gently toss them to help the cheese melt and stick to the potatoes. It adds such a tasty finish!
6. Garnish and Serve:
Before you serve, sprinkle fresh chopped parsley over the sweet potatoes for a pop of color and freshness. Enjoy your savory sweet potatoes warm as a delicious side dish or a satisfying snack!
Can I Use Other Types of Potatoes?
Absolutely! While sweet potatoes provide a unique sweetness and flavor, you can substitute them with regular potatoes or even butternut squash. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly, so check for tenderness as you roast.
What If I Don’t Have Parmesan Cheese?
No problem! You can use any grated cheese like Pecorino Romano or even a dairy-free cheese alternative for a vegan option. If you’re looking to skip the cheese altogether, try adding a sprinkle of nutritional yeast for a similar flavor boost!
Can I Prepare This Dish in Advance?
Yes, you can! You can season and chop the sweet potatoes a day ahead and store them in an airtight container in the fridge. Just give them a quick toss with olive oil and seasonings before roasting. They may need a minute or two longer to cook if they’re cold from the fridge.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover savory sweet potatoes in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through, or microwave in short intervals until hot.
