Name: Roasted Sweet Potatoes
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 large sweet potatoes 2 tablespoons olive oil 1 teaspoon salt; 0.5 teaspoon black pepper; 0.5 teaspoon smoked paprika; 0.25 teaspoon garlic powder

Roasted sweet potatoes are one of those side dishes that deliver every time. Crispy edges, caramelized surfaces, and soft, sweet interiors make them a favorite for holiday tables or weeknight meals. Whether you’re pairing them with roasted meats, tossing them into a grain bowl, or snacking straight from the pan, they never disappoint.

What sets this dish apart is its simplicity. A handful of ingredients and a hot oven are all you need to bring out the natural sweetness and depth of flavor. You can keep it classic with salt and olive oil, or play with spices like smoked paprika, cinnamon, or cumin for an extra punch.

What Kind of Sweet Potatoes Should I Use?

The best sweet potatoes for roasting are the orange-fleshed varieties like Garnet or Jewel. These have a naturally creamy texture and higher sugar content, which helps them caramelize beautifully in the oven. Avoid overly large or irregularly shaped potatoes, as they can cook unevenly.

Ingredients for the Roasted Sweet Potatoes

2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)

How To Make the Roasted Sweet Potatoes

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with olive oil.

Step 2: Cube the Sweet Potatoes

Peel and cube the sweet potatoes into even 1-inch pieces to ensure they roast uniformly.

Step 3: Season Well

In a large bowl, toss the sweet potato cubes with olive oil, salt, pepper, and any optional spices you’re using. Mix well to ensure all pieces are coated.

Step 4: Spread and Roast

Spread the sweet potatoes in a single layer on your prepared baking sheet. Avoid overcrowding—use two sheets if needed. Roast for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through until the edges are browned and crispy.

Step 5: Serve Warm

Once golden and tender, remove them from the oven and serve immediately while they’re hot and crispy.

How to Serve and Store Roasted Sweet Potatoes

Roasted sweet potatoes are incredibly versatile. Serve them hot as a side dish with roasted chicken or grilled steak, or add them to a grain bowl with quinoa and tahini dressing. Leftovers can be tossed into salads, tacos, or breakfast hashes.

To store, let them cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. They keep well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, place them in a 400°F oven for about 10 minutes to regain their crisp.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I get sweet potatoes crispy?

Make sure they are spaced out on the baking sheet and roasted at high heat. Moisture is the enemy of crispiness, so don’t overcrowd.

Can I leave the skin on?

Absolutely! Just scrub them well. The skin adds texture and nutrients.

Can I make these in advance?

Yes. Roast them ahead and reheat in the oven to crisp them back up.

Do I need to soak sweet potatoes before roasting?

No, it’s not necessary. Unlike regular potatoes, sweet potatoes don’t contain as much starch.

Are roasted sweet potatoes healthy?

Definitely. They are high in fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants while being naturally low in fat.

Want More Side Dish Ideas?

If you love these roasted sweet potatoes, you’ll want to try these other flavor-packed sides:

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it any time.

And if you gave them a sweet-and-spicy twist or added fresh herbs, I’d love to hear how it turned out. Drop a comment below—questions, tips, or just some roasted potato love.

Follow me on Pinterest at Nina Dishes for more recipes like this one.

Roasted Sweet Potatoes

Author: Nina Klatten
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 4 servings

Print Recipe

Description

Roasted sweet potatoes are crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and naturally sweet. This simple, flavorful side dish pairs beautifully with everything from roasted meats to grain bowls. Quick to make, endlessly adaptable, and incredibly satisfying.