Roasted Sweet Potatoes with Herbs and Parmesan
Roasted Sweet Potatoes with Herbs and Parmesan is a simple, flavorful side dish that's full of warmth and goodness. The natural sweetness of the potatoes gets a lovely boost from…
Tip: save now, cook later.Roasted Sweet Potatoes with Herbs and Parmesan is a simple, flavorful side dish that’s full of warmth and goodness. The natural sweetness of the potatoes gets a lovely boost from a mix of fresh herbs, while the Parmesan adds a nutty, cheesy touch that makes every bite a little more special. Crispy edges with tender centers make this dish a crowd-pleaser anytime you’re looking for something both comforting and easy.
I love making this recipe because it’s quick and fuss-free, yet feels like a real treat. Tossing sweet potatoes with olive oil, fragrant herbs like rosemary or thyme, and a sprinkle of Parmesan before roasting is one of my favorite ways to enjoy veggies. The smell that fills the kitchen while it’s baking is enough to get everyone excited for dinner. Plus, the mix of sweet, savory, and herby flavors keeps me coming back for seconds.
My favorite way to serve these roasted sweet potatoes is alongside a simple roast chicken or as part of a hearty salad. They also work great cold for a flavorful snack or packed in a lunchbox. I find this dish is so versatile and never fails to brighten up a meal, no matter the season. Once you try it, I’m pretty sure you’ll want to keep it in your recipe rotation too!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Sweet Potatoes: These bring natural sweetness and softness when roasted. If you want a firmer texture, try Japanese or Korean sweet potatoes which hold shape better.
Herbs: Thyme and rosemary add earthiness and aroma. Fresh herbs give the best flavor, but dried works fine if fresh are not available.
Parmesan Cheese: Parmesan adds a nutty, salty finish. You can swap it for Pecorino Romano for a sharper taste or nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option.
Olive Oil: Olive oil helps with roasting and flavor. For a different twist, try avocado or grapeseed oil.
How Can I Get Crispy Edges Without Burning Sweet Potatoes?
The key is to roast at a high temperature and space the cubes properly so they don’t steam. Here’s how:
- Cut sweet potatoes into evenly sized cubes for uniform cooking.
- Toss well with enough oil to coat each piece, which helps crispness.
- Spread in a single layer without crowding on the baking sheet.
- Turn them halfway through roasting to brown all sides evenly.
- Keep an eye in the last 5 minutes so they get crispy but don’t burn.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Baking sheet – wide and rimmed helps spread the sweet potatoes in a single layer for even roasting.
- Mixing bowl – to toss the potatoes with oil and herbs comfortably.
- Sharp knife – for cutting sweet potatoes into even cubes quickly and safely.
- Vegetable peeler – makes peeling sweet potatoes easier and faster.
- Microplane or fine grater – for grating fresh Parmesan finely over the potatoes.
- Spatula or tongs – to turn the sweet potatoes halfway through roasting.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Add chili powder or smoked paprika for a spicy, smoky kick that pairs well with the sweetness.
- Mix in cooked pancetta or crispy bacon bits for extra saltiness and crunch.
- Swap Parmesan for crumbled feta or goat cheese for a tangy, creamy twist.
- Stir in chopped fresh sage or thyme after roasting to boost herbal freshness.
Roasted Sweet Potatoes with Herbs and Parmesan
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 3 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme or 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary or 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1/3 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley or oregano, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
It takes about 10 minutes to prepare your sweet potatoes and mix the herbs and oil. Then, you’ll roast the potatoes in the oven for 25 to 30 minutes until tender and golden. Overall, plan for approximately 40 minutes from start to finish.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare and Season the Sweet Potatoes:
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). Peel the sweet potatoes and cut them into even 1-inch cubes. Place the cubed sweet potatoes into a large bowl. Add olive oil, thyme, rosemary, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Toss everything together well so each piece is nicely coated with the herbs and oil.
2. Roast the Sweet Potatoes:
Spread the seasoned sweet potatoes evenly on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or lightly greased. Make sure the cubes are in a single layer and not crowded. Roast them in your preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes. Halfway through, use a spatula or tongs to turn the potatoes so they brown evenly and develop crispy edges.
3. Add Parmesan and Garnish:
When the sweet potatoes are tender and have a lovely golden color, take them out of the oven. While they’re still hot, sprinkle the freshly grated Parmesan cheese over them. Gently toss or stir so the cheese melts a bit into the warm potatoes. Finally, transfer to your serving dish and sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley or oregano on top for a fresh and colorful touch. Serve warm and enjoy!
Can I Use Frozen Sweet Potatoes for This Recipe?
You can, but make sure to thaw them completely and pat dry to remove excess moisture before roasting. This helps prevent sogginess and promotes better crisping.
How Should I Store Leftover Roasted Sweet Potatoes?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave, adding a sprinkle of Parmesan to refresh the flavor.
Can I Substitute Parmesan with Another Cheese?
Absolutely! Pecorino Romano works well for a sharper taste. For a dairy-free option, try nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without dairy.
Is It Possible to Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes! Prepare and roast the sweet potatoes a day in advance. Reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, then add the Parmesan and fresh herbs just before serving.