A simple, delicious, and cozy side dish that turns humble sweet potatoes into caramelized, crispy-edged perfection. This recipe delivers tender insides, golden roasted outsides, and warm, comforting flavor in every bite. Great for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or pairing with your favorite protein.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Crispy on the outside, perfectly soft on the inside.
- Minimal ingredients, maximum flavor.
- Healthy, filling, and naturally sweet.
- Works with any seasoning style — savory, smoky, spicy, or sweet.
- A perfect side dish for almost everything: chicken, salmon, steak, bowls, salads, and more.
- Excellent for meal prep and easy to reheat while staying delicious.
Ingredients
- 2–3 medium sweet potatoes, scrubbed and dried
- 2–3 tbsp olive oil
- ½ tsp salt (more to taste)
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- Optional seasonings:
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp paprika or smoked paprika
- Fresh herbs (rosemary or thyme)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 200°C (400–425°F).
- Peel the sweet potatoes if you prefer (keeping skin on is fine), then cut into evenly sized cubes or wedges about 1 inch thick.
- Place sweet potatoes in a large bowl. Add olive oil, salt, pepper, and any optional seasoning. Toss to coat evenly.
- Spread the potatoes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper in a single layer so they roast and don’t steam.
- Roast for 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway, until the edges are golden and crispy and the potatoes are fork-tender.
- Taste, adjust seasonings, and serve warm.
You Must Know
- Cutting the potatoes evenly ensures they roast at the same pace.
- A higher temperature helps them crisp and caramelize.
- Overcrowding the pan prevents crispiness — use two trays if needed.
Pro Tips
- Add a sprinkle of smoked paprika or chili powder for depth.
- Toss with fresh herbs after roasting to brighten the flavor.
- To make them extra crispy, broil for 1–2 minutes at the end.
- Reheat leftovers in an air fryer or oven — never microwave for crispiness.
Ingredient Substitutions
- Swap olive oil for avocado oil or melted butter.
- Add cinnamon for a sweet twist or cumin/chili powder for savory smokiness.
- Use rosemary or thyme for an herby version.
Serving Suggestions
- With grilled chicken, steak, pork chops, or fish.
- Tossed into warm grain bowls.
- Served with eggs for breakfast.
- Drizzled with honey or balsamic glaze for a sweet-savory combo.
Storage Tips
- Store cooled leftovers in an airtight container for 3–4 days.
- Reheat in the oven (180°C / 350°F) or air fryer to restore crisp edges.
- Freeze only if you plan to reheat in oven/air fryer — microwaving will make them soft.
Frequently Asked Questions
→ Should I peel sweet potatoes?
You don’t have to — the skin is nutritious. Peel if you want a softer texture.
→ Why aren’t my sweet potatoes crispy?
Usually because the tray was too crowded or there was too much moisture/oil. Always spread into a single layer.
→ Can I add other veggies to roast with them?
Yes! Carrots, onions, bell peppers, or even zucchini work well. Just watch different cooking times.
→ Can I make them ahead?
Yes — they reheat beautifully, especially in an air fryer.
Roasted Sweet Potatoes
Description
A simple, delicious, and cozy side dish that turns humble sweet potatoes into caramelized, crispy-edged perfection. This recipe delivers tender insides, golden roasted outsides, and warm, comforting flavor in every bite. Great for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or pairing with your favorite protein.
Ingredients
-
2–3 medium sweet potatoes, scrubbed and dried
-
2–3 tbsp olive oil
-
½ tsp salt (more to taste)
-
¼ tsp black pepper
-
Optional seasonings:
-
½ tsp garlic powder
-
½ tsp paprika or smoked paprika
-
Fresh herbs (rosemary or thyme)
-
Instructions
-
Preheat your oven to 200°C (400–425°F).
-
Peel the sweet potatoes if you prefer (keeping skin on is fine), then cut into evenly sized cubes or wedges about 1 inch thick.
-
Place sweet potatoes in a large bowl. Add olive oil, salt, pepper, and any optional seasoning. Toss to coat evenly.
-
Spread the potatoes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper in a single layer so they roast and don’t steam.
-
Roast for 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway, until the edges are golden and crispy and the potatoes are fork-tender.
-
Taste, adjust seasonings, and serve warm.
Notes
-
Cutting the potatoes evenly ensures they roast at the same pace.
-
A higher temperature helps them crisp and caramelize.
-
Overcrowding the pan prevents crispiness — use two trays if needed.
