Crispy smashed sweet potatoes are a delicious twist on a classic side dish. They start off soft and sweet, and then get all crunchy and golden in the oven!
These potatoes are perfect for sharing and make any meal feel special. I love adding a sprinkle of salt and a little bit of garlic powder for extra flavor—so tasty! 🥔✨
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Sweet Potatoes: These are the stars of the dish, providing a sweet and creamy base. You can substitute them with other starchy vegetables like butternut squash or regular potatoes, but sweet potatoes bring a lovely flavor.
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil is best for its flavor and health benefits. If you’re looking for a different taste, avocado oil or coconut oil can work well too.
Garlic Powder: This adds a nice kick. If you have fresh garlic, you can substitute about 2-3 cloves, minced, for a stronger flavor. Just sprinkle over the potatoes instead of the powder.
Smoked Paprika: It brings a delicious smokiness to your potatoes. If you don’t have it, regular paprika or even a pinch of cayenne can add some heat and flavor.
Greek Yogurt/Sour Cream: Both are great for dipping and add creaminess. If you prefer non-dairy, coconut yogurt is a tasty alternative!
How Do I Get My Sweet Potatoes Extra Crispy?
Getting those crispy edges is all about the right preparation and cooking method. Here are some helpful steps:
- After smashing the sweet potatoes, ensure they are evenly coated with oil and spices. This helps promote crispiness.
- Roasting them at a higher temperature (425°F) gives that crunchy texture. Don’t skip flipping them halfway through—this helps them brown evenly.
- Leave some space between each piece on the baking sheet. Crowding can lead to steaming instead of roasting!
- For an even crispier result, finish them under the broiler for a couple of minutes after roasting. Just keep a close eye to avoid burning.
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 salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Fresh thyme leaves for garnish
- Honey for drizzling (optional)
- ½ cup Greek yogurt or sour cream for dipping (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 10 minutes of prep time and about 30 minutes for cooking. In total, you can expect to spend around 40 minutes before you get to enjoy your delicious crispy smashed sweet potatoes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper so your sweet potatoes don’t stick.
2. Microwave the Sweet Potatoes:
Wash the sweet potatoes thoroughly and use a fork to pierce them a few times. This helps them cook evenly! Place them in the microwave for about 5-7 minutes on high, or until they are tender but not fully cooked. Let them cool just a bit to handle safely.
3. Prepare the Sweet Potatoes:
Once cool, peel off the skins and cut the sweet potatoes into thick slices or rounds—about an inch thick is perfect!
4. Smash the Slices:
Place the sweet potato slices on your lined baking sheet. Grab a potato masher or the bottom of a glass, and gently smash each slice down until they are about ½ inch thick.
5. Add Seasonings:
Drizzle the smashed sweet potatoes with olive oil and sprinkle on the salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. Gently toss each piece so they are evenly coated with the delicious seasonings.
6. Roast to Perfection:
Put the baking sheet in the oven and roast for about 20-25 minutes. Be sure to flip the sweet potatoes halfway through for even cooking. They should come out crispy and golden brown on the edges.
7. Garnish and Serve:
Once done, take them from the oven and let them cool slightly. Sprinkle fresh thyme leaves on top and drizzle with honey if you want a touch of sweetness.
8. Enjoy!
Serve your crispy smashed sweet potatoes warm with a side of Greek yogurt or sour cream for dipping. Enjoy every delicious bite!
Can I Use Other Types of Potatoes?
Absolutely! While sweet potatoes provide a unique flavor, you can also use regular russet or Yukon Gold potatoes. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly, so check for tenderness in the microwave before smashing.
What If I Don’t Have Olive Oil?
No problem! You can substitute with another oil, such as avocado oil or melted coconut oil. Just be mindful that the flavor may change a bit. Avoid oils with a strong taste like sesame oil unless you want to infuse that flavor!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them back in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes to regain their crispiness, or use the microwave if you prefer a quicker option.
Can I Make These Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the smashed sweet potatoes up to the roasting step, then cover and refrigerate them for a few hours or overnight. When ready, simply drizzle with oil and spices and roast as directed!
