These savory sweet potatoes are baked to perfection and topped with tasty parmesan and fresh herbs. They are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside—what’s not to love?
Honestly, they make a great side dish for any meal. I can’t help but sneak a few bites right off the baking sheet! Pair them with roasted chicken for a yummy dinner. 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Sweet Potatoes: These are the stars of the dish. Choose firm, unblemished potatoes for the best flavor. If you can’t find sweet potatoes, butternut squash can work as a tasty alternative.
Olive Oil: Adds richness and helps crisp the sweet potatoes. You could substitute it with avocado oil or melted coconut oil if you prefer a different flavor profile.
Herbs and Spices: Garlic powder, thyme, oregano, and smoked paprika bring delicious flavor. If you’re out of smoked paprika, regular paprika or even chili powder can add a nice kick. Fresh herbs like thyme or parsley can be used instead of dried for a fresher taste.
Parmesan Cheese: This gives a lovely salty finish. For a non-dairy option, you can try nutritional yeast or a vegan Parmesan substitute. If you want a different twist, feta or goat cheese could add a nice tang.
How Do I Ensure the Sweet Potatoes Are Perfectly Roasted?
Roasting sweet potatoes properly is key to getting that tender inside and crispy outside. Here are some tips to help you nail it:
- Cut the sweet potatoes into evenly sized 1-inch cubes for uniform cooking.
- Coat them well with olive oil and seasonings, ensuring every piece is covered.
- Arrange them in a single layer on the baking sheet. This allows for proper roasting without steaming.
- Don’t skip flipping halfway through! This helps them brown evenly on all sides.
- Keep an eye on them towards the end; ovens can vary, so check for doneness around 25 minutes.
Savory Sweet Potatoes (Parmesan and Herb)
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced into 1-inch cubes
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious side dish takes about 10 minutes to prep and around 30-35 minutes to cook. You’ll be roasting the sweet potatoes to perfection, creating a savory and cheesy treat that pairs well with any meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). This temperature is perfect for roasting the sweet potatoes until they become tender and slightly crispy.
2. Prepare the Sweet Potatoes:
In a large mixing bowl, toss the diced sweet potatoes with olive oil, garlic powder, thyme, oregano, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Make sure all the sweet potato pieces are well coated in the seasoning.
3. Spread and Roast:
Next, spread the seasoned sweet potatoes in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. This will help them roast evenly. Place the tray in your preheated oven and roast for about 25-30 minutes. Remember to flip them halfway through cooking so they brown nicely on all sides!
4. Add the Parmesan:
Once the sweet potatoes are tender and golden brown, take them out of the oven. Immediately sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the warm sweet potatoes, tossing gently to combine and allow the cheese to melt.
5. Final Touches:
Return the baking sheet to the oven for another 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and slightly browned. This step adds a delightful cheesy flavor to the dish!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Finally, garnish your savory sweet potatoes with fresh parsley or cilantro before serving. Enjoy this tasty side dish with your favorite main course!
Can I Use Different Herbs for This Recipe?
Absolutely! If you don’t have thyme or oregano, feel free to substitute with other dried herbs like rosemary, sage, or Italian seasoning. Just keep the total amount around one teaspoon to maintain flavor balance.
What If I Don’t Have Parmesan Cheese?
No problem! You can use other cheeses like Pecorino Romano or even a dairy-free cheese alternative if you’re looking for a vegan option. Just make sure it’s a cheese that melts well to achieve that nice, cheesy topping!
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prep the sweet potatoes ahead by chopping and seasoning them in advance. Store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a day. When you’re ready to cook, simply spread them on the baking sheet and adjust the roasting time as necessary.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the sweet potatoes in a baking dish and warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, sprinkling on a bit more cheese if desired!
