Roasted Sweet Potatoes with Garlic and Parmesan Recipe
If you’re looking for a side dish that’s as easy as it is irresistible, Roasted Sweet Potatoes with Garlic and Parmesan will absolutely win you over. Picture tender cubes of sweet potato, caramelized at the edges, mingling with savory garlic and crowned with a snow of freshly grated Parmesan. Every bite is a balance of sweet, salty, and umami, with just enough golden crispness to keep things interesting. Whether you’re planning a cozy family dinner or a festive holiday spread, this dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that brings warmth and vibrant color to any table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Just a handful of simple ingredients are all it takes to create Roasted Sweet Potatoes with Garlic and Parmesan. Each component adds its own special touch, from the natural sweetness of the potatoes to the bold punch of garlic and the nutty richness of Parmesan.
- Sweet potatoes: Look for ones that are firm and bright; they roast up beautifully sweet and tender, forming the base of this recipe.
- Olive oil: Adds richness and ensures each potato cube crisps up perfectly in the oven.
- Garlic: Freshly minced for a kick of aromatic flavor that infuses every bite.
- Salt: Essential for enhancing the natural sweetness and balancing the other flavors.
- Black pepper: Brings just the right amount of warmth and complexity.
- Smoked paprika (optional): A hint of smoky depth and gorgeous color, if you like a little extra flair.
- Parmesan cheese: Grated finely, it melts slightly over the hot potatoes, creating a savory, cheesy finish.
- Chopped fresh parsley (optional): For a burst of freshness and color just before serving.
How to Make Roasted Sweet Potatoes with Garlic and Parmesan
Step 1: Prep the Oven and Baking Sheet
Begin by preheating your oven to 425°F (218°C), which is the sweet spot for getting those potatoes browned and caramelized outside while keeping them soft within. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and to make cleanup a breeze.
Step 2: Toss the Sweet Potatoes
In a big mixing bowl, combine your sweet potato cubes with olive oil, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and smoked paprika if you’re using it. Toss everything together until each piece is well-coated. This step ensures that every bite of Roasted Sweet Potatoes with Garlic and Parmesan is packed with flavor.
Step 3: Arrange on the Baking Sheet
Spread the seasoned sweet potatoes in a single, even layer on your prepared baking sheet. Don’t crowd them! Giving each piece some space allows the edges to crisp up beautifully. If you’re doubling the recipe or your pan is crowded, simply use two sheets.
Step 4: Roast Until Golden
Slide your sweet potatoes into the hot oven and roast for 25 to 30 minutes. About halfway through, give them a gentle toss with a spatula to ensure they brown evenly. You’re looking for deep golden edges and fork-tender centers — that’s when the magic happens.
Step 5: Add Parmesan and Finish
As soon as the potatoes emerge from the oven, sprinkle them generously with Parmesan cheese. The residual heat will help the cheese melt just enough to cling to every cube. Toss gently, garnish with fresh parsley if you like, and your Roasted Sweet Potatoes with Garlic and Parmesan are ready to serve!
How to Serve Roasted Sweet Potatoes with Garlic and Parmesan
Garnishes
A final shower of chopped fresh parsley not only adds a pop of color but also a hint of brightness that balances the rich, cheesy flavors. For a little zing, you could also sprinkle on some crushed red pepper flakes or even a squeeze of lemon juice. These tiny touches make the dish look and taste even more special.
Side Dishes
Roasted Sweet Potatoes with Garlic and Parmesan play well with just about any main course. They’re fantastic alongside roasted chicken, steak, or grilled fish, and they’re a brilliant choice for your holiday table, nestled among other festive favorites. Their natural sweetness and savory finish make them a hit with both kids and adults.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try serving these potatoes in individual ramekins for a dinner party, or pile them high on a rustic platter for a more family-style feel. You can also scatter a handful of toasted nuts or seeds over the top for crunch, or nestle the potatoes on a bed of baby greens for an easy, hearty salad.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with leftover Roasted Sweet Potatoes with Garlic and Parmesan, let them cool to room temperature and transfer to an airtight container. They’ll keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, making them perfect for meal prep or a quick snack.
Freezing
While fresh is always best, you can freeze roasted sweet potatoes in a pinch. Spread them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer to a freezer bag. They’ll keep for up to 2 months, though the texture may soften a bit upon reheating.
Reheating
To bring back that just-roasted goodness, reheat leftovers in a hot oven (about 400°F) for 10 to 15 minutes. This helps restore some of the crispness. You can also reheat them in a skillet over medium heat, stirring gently until warmed through.
FAQs
Can I use pre-shredded Parmesan cheese?
While pre-shredded Parmesan is convenient, freshly grated cheese melts better and gives a richer flavor. For the best Roasted Sweet Potatoes with Garlic and Parmesan, I recommend grating your own if you can.
What’s the best way to cut the sweet potatoes?
Peel and cut your sweet potatoes into 1-inch cubes for even roasting. Try to keep the pieces as uniform as possible so they cook at the same rate and get evenly caramelized.
Can I add other vegetables to this recipe?
Absolutely! Roasted Sweet Potatoes with Garlic and Parmesan are delicious on their own, but you can toss in carrots, parsnips, or even butternut squash for a colorful medley. Just make sure to cut everything to similar sizes for even cooking.
Is there a dairy-free alternative to Parmesan?
If you want to make this dish dairy-free, try using a vegan Parmesan or simply omit the cheese and finish with extra herbs or nutritional yeast for a savory kick.
How do I make the potatoes extra crispy?
To maximize crispiness, be sure your potatoes are well-spaced on the baking sheet and not crowded. You can also roast them a few extra minutes, watching closely so they don’t burn. Using convection mode on your oven (if you have it) helps too!
Final Thoughts
There’s something so comforting and festive about Roasted Sweet Potatoes with Garlic and Parmesan — they’re always the first thing to disappear when I make them. I hope you find as much joy in sharing and savoring this recipe as I do. Don’t wait for a special occasion; treat yourself and your loved ones to these golden, cheesy bites soon!
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Roasted Sweet Potatoes with Garlic and Parmesan Recipe
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Roasted Sweet Potatoes with Garlic and Parmesan recipe is a simple and flavorful side dish featuring tender sweet potato cubes tossed with garlic, olive oil, and smoked paprika, then roasted to perfection and finished with a savory Parmesan cheese coating. Perfectly crispy on the outside and soft inside, it’s an easy and delicious addition to any meal.
Ingredients
Sweet Potatoes
- 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes
Seasonings and Oil
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
Toppings
- 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper to ensure easy cleanup and prevent sticking.
- Toss Sweet Potatoes: In a large bowl, combine the peeled and cubed sweet potatoes with olive oil, minced garlic, salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika if using. Toss until all pieces are evenly coated with the seasoning and oil.
- Arrange on Baking Sheet: Spread the seasoned sweet potatoes in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Avoid overcrowding to allow for proper roasting and crispiness.
- Roast: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and roast for 25 to 30 minutes, tossing the sweet potatoes once halfway through the cooking time to ensure even browning and tenderness.
- Add Parmesan: Remove the roasted sweet potatoes from the oven and immediately sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the hot potatoes. Toss gently to evenly coat the pieces with the melted cheese.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley on top for a touch of color and freshness if desired. Serve the roasted sweet potatoes immediately while warm.
Notes
- For extra crispiness, avoid overcrowding the pan; use two baking sheets if necessary.
- Add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes if you like a spicy kick.
- This dish pairs well with roasted chicken, steak, or can be served as a festive holiday side.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion
- Calories: 190
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 290mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 2.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 5mg
