These crunchy roasted sweet potatoes are a treat! Tossed in olive oil and your favorite spices, they turn crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. Yum!
Perfect as a side dish or a snack, they’re so easy to make. I love how they brighten up any meal with their vibrant color and sweetness. Who doesn’t love a good potato? 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Sweet Potatoes: The star of the show! Look for firm, vibrant sweet potatoes. If you can’t find them, butternut squash works well too, though the flavor will differ slightly.
Olive Oil: This adds richness. You can use coconut oil for a different flavor or avocado oil for a high smoke point. I love using olive oil as it enhances the natural sweetness of the potatoes.
Spices: Garlic powder and smoked paprika bring great flavor. Feel free to switch out the spices! Cumin or chili powder can add a nice kick. Personalize to your taste!
Rosemary: This is optional, but fresh rosemary elevates the dish. If you don’t have rosemary, thyme or parsley can also work. I find fresh herbs really make the difference!
Cornstarch: Using this helps achieve extra crunch! If you prefer a healthier option, skip it and it will still be tasty. I’ve tried both ways and love the crunch the cornstarch gives!
How Do I Achieve the Perfect Crispy Texture?
Getting that crunchy outside while keeping the inside soft can be tricky! Here are my steps to success:
- Start with how you cut the potatoes; keep them uniform (1-inch cubes) for even cooking.
- Make sure to coat them well in olive oil and spices; this helps the crisping process.
- Avoid overcrowding on the baking sheet. If necessary, use two sheets. This way, every piece can get that golden crust.
- Flipping them halfway through cooking allows for even browning. Use a spatula to give them a good toss!
By following these tips, your roasted sweet potatoes will be crispy and delicious every time! Enjoy!
Crunchy Roasted Sweet Potatoes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt, or to taste
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary or fresh rosemary leaves (optional)
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for extra crispiness)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and 25-30 minutes to roast in the oven. So, in total, you’re looking at around 40 minutes. It’s a quick and easy side dish that’s packed with flavor!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven:
First, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high temperature is key for achieving that nice crunch! Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or grease it lightly to prevent sticking.
2. Prepare the Sweet Potatoes:
In a large bowl, add the sweet potato cubes. Drizzle the olive oil over them, and use a spoon or your hands to toss until all the pieces are evenly coated. Make sure they’re slick and shiny!
3. Season the Potatoes:
Now for the fun part! Sprinkle in the garlic powder, smoked paprika, black pepper, salt, and cornstarch (if using). Toss everything again until each sweet potato cube is coated in the seasoning mix. This will make them super flavorful and delicious!
4. Arrange for Roasting:
Spread the seasoned sweet potatoes in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Make sure to leave space between each piece; this helps them roast evenly and get crispy.
5. Roast Away:
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and roast for about 25-30 minutes. Remember to flip the cubes halfway through so they cook evenly. Keep an eye on them, you want them tender and golden brown!
6. Add Fresh Herbs (Optional):
If you’re using rosemary, sprinkle the leaves over the sweet potatoes during the last 5 minutes of roasting. This adds a lovely aroma and enhances the flavor!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Once they’re done roasting, remove your crunchy sweet potatoes from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Then, serve them up as a tasty side dish or snack. Enjoy every bite of your delicious crunchy roasted sweet potatoes!
Can I Use Other Types of Potatoes?
Yes, you can! While sweet potatoes give a unique flavor and sweetness, you can substitute with regular potatoes, Yukon Gold, or even butternut squash. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly!
How Do I Store Leftover Roasted Sweet Potatoes?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until heated through, or use the microwave for a quick option.
Can I Make This Recipe Whole30 or Vegan-Friendly?
Absolutely! This recipe is already vegan-friendly as it uses olive oil and does not contain any animal products. For Whole30, just ensure your seasonings do not contain any additives or sugars.
What Other Spices Can I Use?
Feel free to get creative! You could use cumin, chili powder, or even curry powder for a different flavor profile. Just adjust the quantities based on your taste preference, and have fun with it!
