Name: Roasted Sweet Potatoes
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 lbs sweet potatoes, peeled or unpeeled, cut into 1-inch cubes; 2 tbsp olive oil; 1 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp black pepper; Optional seasonings: 1 tsp garlic powder, 1 tsp smoked paprika, 1/2 tsp cinnamon, pinch of cayenne, or fresh herbs (rosemary, thyme, oregano)

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Roasting brings out the natural caramelized flavor of sweet potatoes, making them irresistible. They’re easy to prepare, customizable with different seasonings, and a healthier alternative to heavier sides. Plus, they’re great for both savory and slightly sweet variations.

Ingredients

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

Sweet potatoes, peeled or unpeeled and cut into cubes
Olive oil
Salt
Black pepper
Optional: garlic powder, smoked paprika, cinnamon, cayenne pepper, or fresh herbs

Directions

Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
Peel sweet potatoes (optional) and cut into 1-inch cubes for even cooking.
In a large bowl, toss sweet potatoes with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Add any desired spices.
Spread the cubes in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
Roast for 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and tender.
Serve hot as a side dish or add to salads, bowls, or wraps.

Servings and timing

Serves 4 people.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes

Variations

Savory Herb Roasted: Add rosemary, thyme, or oregano.
Sweet and Spiced: Toss with cinnamon and a drizzle of honey or maple syrup.
Spicy Kick: Add cayenne pepper, chili powder, or smoked paprika.
Parmesan Roasted: Sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese before roasting.
Asian-Inspired: Toss with soy sauce, sesame oil, and sesame seeds.

Storage/Reheating

Store roasted sweet potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Reheat in the oven or air fryer for best crispiness.
Freeze for up to 2 months; reheat directly from frozen in the oven.

FAQs

Do I need to peel the sweet potatoes?

No, the skin is edible and adds extra fiber and texture.

How do I get them crispy?

Spread them out on the baking sheet and avoid overcrowding.

Can I use yams instead of sweet potatoes?

Yes, they can be roasted the same way.

Should I parboil sweet potatoes before roasting?

Not necessary—roasting alone gives great texture.

Can I roast them ahead of time?

Yes, just reheat in the oven before serving.

What seasonings go best with roasted sweet potatoes?

Garlic, paprika, cinnamon, and herbs like rosemary or thyme work beautifully.

Can I roast sweet potatoes with other vegetables?

Yes, pair with carrots, Brussels sprouts, or red onions for variety.

How do I know when they’re done?

They should be fork-tender and slightly caramelized on the edges.

Are roasted sweet potatoes healthy?

Yes, they’re high in fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants.

Can I make these in an air fryer?

Yes, air fry at 400°F for 15–20 minutes, shaking halfway through.

Conclusion

Roasted sweet potatoes are an easy, flavorful, and versatile side dish that adds a touch of natural sweetness to any meal. Whether you season them savory, spicy, or sweet, they’re a wholesome and delicious addition to your dinner table.