Crunchy roasted sweet potatoes are the perfect side dish! They have a golden, crispy outside and a soft, tasty inside that everyone loves.
These sweet potatoes are super easy to make—just chop, toss with some oil and spices, and roast away! They disappear fast from my dinner table, and I can’t blame them!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Sweet Potatoes: These are the star of the dish! Look for firm potatoes without any soft spots. If you’re short on sweet potatoes, you can use butternut squash or regular potatoes for a similar texture.
Olive Oil: This adds a rich flavor and helps with crispiness. If you need a substitute, avocado oil or vegetable oil can work just fine. I prefer extra virgin olive oil for its taste!
Herbs & Spices: Thyme and rosemary provide a wonderful aroma. If you don’t have these, Italian seasoning or a mix of dried herbs can be used. For more heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper!
Smoked Paprika: This ingredient adds a nice smoky flavor. If you don’t have it, you could skip it or use regular paprika. I find smoked paprika gives the sweet potatoes an extra layer of flavor!
How Do I Get My Sweet Potatoes Extra Crispy?
To achieve that crunchy texture, follow these simple tips. First, make sure to cut the sweet potatoes into even cubes so they cook evenly. The size should be about 1 inch.
- Preheat your oven well; a hot oven helps to crisp them up faster.
- Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet. Give each cube some space so they roast rather than steam.
- Flip them halfway through cooking to get all sides crispy.
- Let them cool a bit after roasting. This helps maintain that crunchiness.
Crunchy Roasted Sweet Potatoes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 3 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or fresh finely chopped)
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary (or fresh finely chopped)
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 10 minutes to prepare and about 25 to 30 minutes to roast in the oven. So, in total, you’re looking at around 40 minutes from start to finish. It’s a quick and easy side dish that’s perfect for any meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high temperature is key to getting that beautiful crunchy texture on the sweet potatoes! Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or grease it lightly to prevent sticking.
2. Prepare the Sweet Potatoes:
In a large bowl, add the cubed sweet potatoes. Drizzle them with olive oil, making sure every piece gets a lovely coat. Toss with your hands or a spoon until well coated. This will help the seasonings stick and make them crispy!
3. Season the Cubes:
Now it’s time to add flavor! Sprinkle the dried thyme, rosemary, smoked paprika (if using), garlic powder, salt, and pepper over the sweet potatoes. Toss again until everything is evenly mixed. You want every bite to be bursting with flavor!
4. Arrange for Roasting:
Spread the seasoned sweet potato cubes in a single layer on the baking sheet. Make sure they’re not overcrowded. This helps them roast instead of steam, ensuring that delightful crunch!
5. Roast in the Oven:
Put the baking sheet in the preheated oven and roast the sweet potatoes for about 25-30 minutes. Be sure to give them a little stir or flip halfway through cooking. You’re looking for a golden brown color on the edges and a fork-tender inside.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Once they’re done, take them out of the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Serve them warm as a crunchy side dish and enjoy the delightful flavors! They’ll be a hit at your dinner table!
Can I Use Different Types of Potatoes?
Yes! While sweet potatoes are ideal for this recipe, you can substitute with butternut squash or even regular potatoes like Yukon Gold for a different flavor and texture.
Can I Make This Recipe in Advance?
You can prep the sweet potatoes and season them a few hours in advance. Just cover them and refrigerate until you’re ready to roast. However, for the best texture, it’s best to roast them fresh.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes to help regain their crunchiness.
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Absolutely! You can mix in other vegetables like carrots or bell peppers for added color and flavor. Just be sure to cut them into similar-sized pieces so they cook evenly.
