Crispy smashed sweet potatoes are a fun twist on your regular side dish! They’re golden, crunchy on the outside, and soft on the inside, making them a total crowd-pleaser.
I love how easy and satisfying they are to make. Just boil, smash, and bake! They pair perfectly with just about anything, and trust me, you’ll want to eat them every day! 🥔❤️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Sweet Potatoes: These are the star of the dish! Go for large, firm sweet potatoes. If you’re short on sweet potatoes, you can use regular potatoes, but the flavor won’t be as sweet or vibrant.
Olive Oil: A great choice for roasting due to its flavor and health benefits. If you don’t have it, feel free to swap in avocado oil or melted coconut oil for a different spin.
Spices (Paprika and Garlic Powder): These add a wonderful depth of flavor. Regular paprika works, but smoked paprika gives a nice twist. For garlic powder, you can use fresh minced garlic for a stronger punch.
Greek Yogurt or Sour Cream: Both add creaminess and tang to the dish. If you’re looking for a lighter option, plain yogurt or even hummus can work well as a dip.
Honey: This adds sweetness to balance the savory flavors. Maple syrup is a nice substitute if you’re avoiding honey or for a unique flavor.
How Can I Ensure My Sweet Potatoes Are Perfectly Crispy?
The key to crispy smashed sweet potatoes is all in the preparation and roasting process. Start with boiling the sweet potatoes until they’re fork-tender but not mushy—this helps them hold their shape and get crispy.
- After smashing, make sure to coat them evenly with olive oil and seasonings. This helps to achieve that crispy outer layer.
- Roasting at a high temperature (425°F) is essential for getting that golden crispy texture. Don’t forget to flip them halfway to ensure even cooking!
How to Make Crispy Smashed Sweet Potatoes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Sweet Potatoes:
- 2 large sweet potatoes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh thyme leaves (for garnish)
For Dipping:
- 1/2 cup Greek yogurt or sour cream
- Honey (for drizzling, optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
You’ll take about 15 minutes to prepare your ingredients and boil the sweet potatoes, and then an additional 30 minutes to roast them in the oven. So, in total, this delicious dish will take about 45 minutes to make. Perfect for a tasty side or snack!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). While that’s heating up, wash and scrub the sweet potatoes to clean them well.
2. Boil the Sweet Potatoes:
Place the washed sweet potatoes in a large pot and cover them with water. Bring the water to a boil, and let them cook for about 15-20 minutes. You want them to be fork-tender but still hold their shape, so keep an eye on them!
3. Cool and Smash:
Once the sweet potatoes are done, drain the water and let them cool for a few minutes until they’re cool enough to handle. Now, place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Use a fork or the bottom of a glass to gently smash each potato until they are flattened but still intact.
4. Season and Roast:
Drizzle the smashed sweet potatoes with olive oil, and then sprinkle them with paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Make sure to evenly coat the potatoes with the oil and seasonings, either by using a brush or your clean hands. Now they’re ready for the oven!
5. Crispy Finish:
Roast the sweet potatoes in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes. Flip them halfway through so they get nice and crispy on both sides. Keep an eye on them towards the end to make sure they turn golden brown!
6. Make the Dipping Sauce:
While your potatoes are roasting, mix the Greek yogurt or sour cream with a pinch of salt and pepper in a small bowl to create a tasty dipping sauce. This will add a delicious creamy element to your dish!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Once the sweet potatoes are perfectly crispy, take them out of the oven. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves for a pop of color and flavor. Serve with your creamy dipping sauce on the side. If you like a little sweetness, feel free to drizzle some honey over the potatoes.
Now dig in and enjoy your crispy smashed sweet potatoes!
Can I Use Other Types of Potatoes?
Absolutely! While sweet potatoes provide a unique flavor, you can use regular potatoes, such as Yukon Gold or Russets. Just adjust the boiling time, as regular potatoes might need a few extra minutes to become tender.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
To store leftovers, let the smashed sweet potatoes cool completely, then place them in an airtight container in the fridge. They’ll stay fresh for up to 3 days. You can reheat them in the oven to keep them crispy—just pop them back into a 400°F (200°C) oven for about 10 minutes.
What Can I Substitute for Olive Oil?
If you don’t have olive oil on hand, feel free to use other oils such as avocado oil, canola oil, or melted butter. Just keep in mind that different oils may alter the flavor slightly, so choose one that complements your taste preferences!
Can I Make This Recipe Vegan?
Yes, you can easily make this recipe vegan by swapping Greek yogurt or sour cream with dairy-free alternatives like coconut yogurt or cashew cream. Just make sure to check that they’re plain and unflavored for the best results!
