These crispy smashed sweet potatoes are a treat! They’re soft inside and crunchy on the outside, making them perfect for any meal. Plus, they’re super simple to make!
I love to sprinkle a bit of salt and maybe some herbs on top before they go in the oven. They always disappear from the table fast—who can resist that crunch? 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Sweet Potatoes: These are the star of the dish! I prefer using large, firm sweet potatoes for the best texture. If sweet potatoes aren’t available, you can use regular potatoes for a different flavor.
Olive Oil: I love olive oil not just for its flavor but also for health benefits. If you need a substitute, avocado oil works well and can handle high heat, just like olive oil.
Paprika: It adds nice color and a subtle smoky flavor. If you’re looking for something a bit different, smoked paprika or cayenne pepper can spice things up!
Greek Yogurt: This gives a creamy dip that’s a healthier choice. If you prefer, regular sour cream or a dairy-free yogurt can work instead.
Honey: A drizzle of honey enhances the sweet potatoes perfectly. If you’re vegan, consider maple syrup as a great alternative.
How Do I Make the Sweet Potatoes Crispy?
Getting that perfect crispiness is where the magic happens in this recipe! It all comes down to a couple of important steps.
- Boiling First: Cook the sweet potatoes until tender; this helps them cook evenly later. Don’t skip this step!
- Smashing Gently: Use a flat-bottomed glass or potato masher to flatten the sweet potatoes. The more surface area, the crispier they’ll get!
- High Oven Temperature: Roasting at 425°F helps achieve that nice, crispy texture. Keep an eye on them as baking times may vary.
- Oil and Seasoning: Don’t be shy with the olive oil and seasoning before baking. It’s key to flavor and crunch!
How to Make Crispy Smashed Sweet Potatoes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Sweet Potatoes:
- 2 large sweet potatoes
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
For the Dipping Sauce:
- 1/4 cup Greek yogurt (or sour cream) for dipping
- 1 tsp honey (optional, for drizzling)
For Garnish:
- Fresh thyme or parsley
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish will take about 15 minutes to prepare and about 30-35 minutes to cook, for a total of roughly 50 minutes. You’ll spend a bit of time boiling and smashing the sweet potatoes, and then they will roast in the oven while you whip up a tasty dipping sauce.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). This way, it will be hot and ready for your sweet potatoes!
2. Cook the Sweet Potatoes:
Wash and scrub the sweet potatoes to remove any dirt. Place them in a pot and cover with water. Bring the water to a boil and let the sweet potatoes cook until they are tender, which should take about 15-20 minutes. Once they’re tender, drain the water and let them cool a little.
3. Prepare to Smash:
After the sweet potatoes have cooled enough to handle, carefully peel off the skins. Place the peeled sweet potatoes on a large baking sheet lined with parchment paper. This will keep them from sticking and make cleanup easier!
4. Smash the Potatoes:
Using a flat-bottomed glass or a potato masher, gently smash each sweet potato. You want them to be flattened but still hold together—think of a thick potato pancake!
5. Season the Sweet Potatoes:
Next, drizzle olive oil over the smashed sweet potatoes. Then sprinkle them with paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper to taste. Get them nice and flavorful!
6. Roast Them Up:
Now it’s time to roast! Place the baking sheet in the oven and let the sweet potatoes cook for about 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are crispy and the tops are just starting to caramelize. Yum!
7. Make the Dipping Sauce:
While the sweet potatoes are roasting, let’s prepare the dipping sauce. In a small bowl, mix the Greek yogurt with a pinch of salt. For a touch of sweetness, you can stir in the honey if you’d like.
8. Finish and Serve:
Once the sweet potatoes are crispy and are out of the oven, let them cool for a few minutes. Serve them warm, garnished with fresh thyme or parsley. Don’t forget to offer the yogurt dipping sauce on the side, and drizzle some honey over the top if you like!
Enjoy your crispy smashed sweet potatoes! They’re sure to be a hit!
Can I Use Other Types of Potatoes?
Absolutely! While sweet potatoes are the star of this recipe, you can use regular potatoes like Yukon gold or red potatoes for a different flavor. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly based on the type of potato you choose. Aim for a similar boiling time until they are tender.
How to Make This Recipe Vegan?
To make this dish vegan, substitute the Greek yogurt with a plant-based yogurt or creamy avocado for dipping. You can skip the honey or use maple syrup instead for that touch of sweetness. The rest of the recipe remains the same and will still be delicious!
Can I Prep These Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can boil and smash the sweet potatoes a day in advance. Just keep them covered in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to cook, drizzle with olive oil and seasonings before roasting. This will save you time and make meal prep a breeze!
How to Store Leftover Smashed Sweet Potatoes?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through, or you can use the microwave, but the oven will help maintain that crispiness!
