Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These Herb Roasted Sweet Potatoes are a perfect combination of sweet and savory flavors, making them an incredibly versatile side dish. The natural sweetness of the potatoes pairs beautifully with the earthy herbs and spices, creating a well-rounded and flavorful dish. Not only are they delicious, but sweet potatoes are packed with fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants, making this dish both nutritious and satisfying. With minimal ingredients and simple preparation, Herb Roasted Sweet Potatoes are sure to become a favorite!

Ingredients

4 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon dried thyme (or 1 tablespoon fresh thyme)
1 teaspoon dried rosemary (or 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary)
1 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for a smoky flavor)
Fresh parsley or thyme (optional, for garnish)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with cooking spray.
Prepare the sweet potatoes: Peel and cube the sweet potatoes into even pieces, about 1-inch in size. This ensures they cook evenly.
Season the sweet potatoes: In a large bowl, toss the cubed sweet potatoes with olive oil, thyme, rosemary, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and smoked paprika (if using). Make sure all the sweet potatoes are evenly coated with the oil and seasoning.
Arrange on the baking sheet: Spread the seasoned sweet potatoes in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Avoid overcrowding the pan to allow the potatoes to roast evenly and become crispy.
Roast the sweet potatoes: Roast the sweet potatoes in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. Stir or flip the potatoes halfway through the cooking time to ensure even roasting.
Serve: Remove the sweet potatoes from the oven and garnish with fresh parsley or additional thyme if desired. Serve warm as a side dish to your favorite meal.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4-6
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Total Time: 35-40 minutes

Variations

Sweet and spicy: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder for a little heat. A drizzle of honey before roasting also adds a sweet-spicy flavor.
Citrus twist: Add the zest of one orange or lemon for a bright, citrusy flavor that complements the sweetness of the potatoes.
Add nuts: Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts over the sweet potatoes in the last 5-10 minutes of roasting for added crunch and richness.
Maple glazed: Drizzle a little maple syrup over the sweet potatoes after roasting for a sweet, caramelized finish.
Add onions: Roast with sliced red onions for extra flavor and sweetness.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftover roasted sweet potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing: You can freeze roasted sweet potatoes for up to 3 months. Make sure they are fully cooled before transferring to a freezer-safe bag or container.
Reheating: To reheat, place the sweet potatoes on a baking sheet and heat them in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through. You can also microwave them for 1-2 minutes.

FAQs

1. Can I use baby sweet potatoes for this recipe?

Yes, you can use baby sweet potatoes. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time, as they may cook faster. Cut them into smaller pieces if necessary.

2. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the sweet potatoes ahead of time and refrigerate them after roasting. Simply reheat them in the oven or microwave before serving.

3. Can I use other herbs for this recipe?

Absolutely! You can swap thyme and rosemary with other herbs such as oregano, basil, or sage for a different flavor profile.

4. Can I add cheese to the roasted sweet potatoes?

Yes, for a cheesy twist, sprinkle shredded cheese such as cheddar or Parmesan over the sweet potatoes in the last 5 minutes of roasting. It will melt and create a deliciously cheesy crust.

5. Can I make this recipe with sweet potato fries?

Yes! Simply cut the sweet potatoes into fries or wedges instead of cubes and adjust the roasting time to ensure they crisp up nicely. Keep an eye on them and flip halfway through.

6. Can I make this recipe with purple sweet potatoes?

Yes, purple sweet potatoes work great for roasting! They have a slightly different flavor and texture but will still turn out beautifully with the same seasonings.

7. How do I make sure the sweet potatoes are crispy?

To get crispy sweet potatoes, make sure to coat them evenly with olive oil and spread them in a single layer on the baking sheet. Avoid overcrowding the pan, as this will cause them to steam instead of roast.

8. Can I roast sweet potatoes with the skin on?

Yes, you can leave the skin on for extra texture and nutrients. Just make sure to wash the potatoes thoroughly before roasting.

9. Can I make roasted sweet potatoes with other vegetables?

Yes, you can roast sweet potatoes alongside other vegetables like carrots, parsnips, or Brussels sprouts. Just make sure the vegetables are cut into similar sizes to ensure even cooking.

10. Can I make this dish with frozen sweet potatoes?

Fresh sweet potatoes are best for roasting, but if you only have frozen sweet potatoes, you can still use them. Just make sure to thaw and drain any excess moisture before seasoning and roasting.

Conclusion

Herb Roasted Sweet Potatoes are a simple yet flavorful side dish that pairs well with a variety of meals. With their sweet and savory flavor, crispy edges, and tender interior, these roasted sweet potatoes are the perfect addition to your dinner table. Whether you’re making them for a weeknight meal, a holiday feast, or meal prep, they’re sure to be a crowd-pleaser. With easy customization options and minimal preparation, Herb Roasted Sweet Potatoes are a must-try dish that’s both nutritious and delicious!

Herb Roasted Sweet Potatoes