A simple recipe for oven-roasted sweet potatoes that achieve a crispy exterior and tender interior, with instructions for both savory Garlic Parmesan and sweet Honey Maple flavor profiles.
Author:Ahazzam
Prep Time:15 min
Cook Time:30 min
Total Time:45 min
Yield:4 servings
Category:Side Dish
Method:Oven Roasting
Cuisine:American
Diet:Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
3 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes
3 tablespoons olive oil, divided
1 teaspoon salt, divided
1/2 teaspoon black pepper, divided
1 teaspoon garlic powder, divided
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (for savory variation)
2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup (for sweet variation)
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon (optional, for sweet variation)
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line two large baking sheets with parchment paper for easier cleanup and better crisping.
In a large bowl, toss the sweet potato cubes with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, 1/4 teaspoon of pepper, and 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder.
Divide the potatoes onto the prepared baking sheets, ensuring they are in a single layer with space between pieces. Do not overcrowd the pans.
Roast for 15 minutes.
While roasting, prepare your flavor variations. For Garlic Parmesan: In a small bowl, mix the remaining 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, remaining salt and pepper, and the grated Parmesan cheese. For Honey Maple: In a small bowl, mix the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil, honey or maple syrup, and cinnamon if using.
After the initial 15 minutes, remove the pans from the oven. Toss the potatoes gently.
Apply the flavorings: For the savory batch, sprinkle the Garlic Parmesan mixture evenly over the potatoes and toss lightly. For the sweet batch, drizzle the Honey Maple mixture over the potatoes and toss.
Return both pans to the oven and roast for another 10 to 15 minutes, or until the edges are caramelized and the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
Serve immediately.
Notes
For maximum crispiness, use two baking sheets so the potatoes are not crowded. Crowding steams the potatoes instead of roasting them.
If you prefer a vegan option, omit the Parmesan cheese and use maple syrup for the sweet glaze.
Toss the potatoes halfway through cooking to promote even browning on all sides.