These roasted parmesan herb sweet potatoes are a tasty treat! Their golden edges and cheesy goodness make them hard to resist. Plus, herbs give them a lovely flavor.
When I make these, my kitchen smells amazing, like a cozy restaurant. They’re perfect as a side dish or just for snacking—trust me, you’ll want to eat them all at once!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Sweet Potatoes: These add a natural sweetness and a creamy texture when roasted. If you’re looking for a lower-carb option, you could swap sweet potatoes for cauliflower or butternut squash. However, the flavor will change a bit—keep that in mind!
Olive Oil: This adds moisture and flavor to the sweet potatoes. If you want a different taste, feel free to substitute with avocado oil or melted coconut oil. I’ve found avocado oil gives a great richness.
Parmesan Cheese: A must for that wonderful cheesy topping! If you’re dairy-free, nutritional yeast can provide a cheesy flavor. Alternatively, try using a vegan cheese that melts well, if that suits your needs.
Herbs and Spices: The combination of oregano, thyme, and smoked paprika packs a punch in flavor. You can mix and match here. For instance, try Italian seasoning or even rosemary for a different vibe. Fresh herbs work beautifully too!
How Do You Roast Sweet Potatoes to Perfection?
Roasting sweet potatoes is all about getting them tender inside while making the outside golden and slightly crispy. Here are some steps to ensure success:
- Cut Uniformly: Make sure your sweet potatoes are cut into 1-inch cubes for even cooking. This helps them cook at the same rate.
- Coat Well: Mixing them with olive oil and seasonings creates a delightful crust. Make sure they’re well coated, but not soaking. Too much oil can cause them to be greasy.
- Single Layer: Spread them out on the baking sheet. Crowding will steam them rather than roast. Use two sheets if necessary!
- Stir Midway: This helps to prevent sticking and ensures that all sides get that lovely caramelization.
How to Make Savory Sweet Potatoes with Parmesan and Herbs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced into 1-inch cubes
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
Seasonings:
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Topping:
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish takes about 10 minutes to prep and around 30-35 minutes to cook. So, in total, you’ll need about 45 minutes to enjoy these savory sweet potatoes hot from the oven!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
First things first! Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). While that’s heating up, take a baking sheet and line it with parchment paper. This will help the sweet potatoes roast evenly and not stick.
2. Mix the Sweet Potatoes:
In a large bowl, combine your diced sweet potatoes with olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, dried oregano, dried thyme, smoked paprika, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Toss everything together until the sweet potatoes are well coated in those tasty seasonings.
3. Spread and Roast:
Now it’s time to get those sweet potatoes onto the baking sheet! Spread them out in a single layer so they can roast evenly. Bake in your preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes. Remember to stir them halfway through cooking time so they get nicely golden brown all over.
4. Add the Parmesan:
After about 25-30 minutes, check if your sweet potatoes are tender and golden. If they are, take them out of the oven and sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the top. Pop them back in for an additional 5 minutes, just until the cheese is all melted and bubbly!
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Once they’re out of the oven, let the sweet potatoes cool slightly. Before serving, garnish them with the chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color. Now they’re ready to be enjoyed as a savory side dish!
Can I Use Other Types of Potatoes?
Absolutely! While sweet potatoes give a wonderful flavor, you can use regular potatoes or even butternut squash. Just remember that cooking times may vary, so check for tenderness with a fork.
What If I Don’t Have Olive Oil?
No worries! You can substitute olive oil with other oils like avocado, canola, or even melted coconut oil. Just keep in mind that the flavor might change slightly, especially with coconut oil!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover savory sweet potatoes in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes or microwave them until heated through.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegan?
Yes! To make this dish vegan, simply omit the Parmesan cheese or substitute it with a vegan cheese alternative. Nutritional yeast can also be a great option for a cheesy flavor without dairy!
