Roasted Sweet Potatoes with Garlic and Parmesan make for a simple yet delicious side dish that’s full of flavor. The natural sweetness of the potatoes is perfectly balanced by the savory garlic and the sharp, nutty taste of parmesan cheese. Crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, these roasted sweet potatoes are a great way to add a cozy, comforting touch to any meal.
I love how easy this dish is to prepare—just toss everything together and let the oven do the work. One tip I have is to cut the sweet potatoes into evenly sized pieces so they cook at the same rate and get that nice golden crust. Adding fresh garlic right before roasting really brings out the aroma and flavor that makes this dish stand out.
These roasted sweet potatoes are perfect to serve alongside grilled meats or a fresh green salad. Sometimes, I even enjoy them on their own as a little treat when I want something hearty but not too heavy. They’re a crowd-pleaser at family dinners, and I always get asked for the recipe when I bring them along!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Sweet Potatoes: Choose firm sweet potatoes without soft spots. Their natural sweetness is the base of this dish. If you can’t find sweet potatoes, try using orange-fleshed yams or even butternut squash for a similar texture and flavor.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic adds a punch of flavor and aroma. You can swap it with garlic powder if needed—use about 1 teaspoon for a milder but still tasty garlic flavor.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan gives a salty, nutty touch. If you want a milder cheese or a dairy-free option, try nutritional yeast or a hard vegan cheese alternative.
Herbs (Thyme & Rosemary): Fresh herbs add brightness and earthiness. If you only have dried herbs, reduce the quantity by about half since dried herbs are more concentrated.
How Can I Get Crispy, Golden Roasted Sweet Potatoes Without Burning?
Here are simple tips to roast perfect sweet potatoes:
- Cut potatoes into even wedges so they cook evenly.
- Use enough olive oil to coat each piece well—this helps with crispness and prevents sticking.
- Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet; leave space between pieces for air to circulate.
- Flip the potatoes halfway through roasting to get all sides nicely browned.
- Keep the oven temperature at 425°F (220°C) for a crispy outside and tender inside.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Baking sheet – big enough for a single layer so the sweet potatoes roast evenly and get crispy.
- Mixing bowl – to toss the potatoes with olive oil, garlic, and herbs without mess.
- Sharp knife – for cutting sweet potatoes into even wedges quickly and safely.
- Spatula or tongs – helps flip the potatoes halfway through roasting without breaking them.
- Measuring spoons – to get the right amount of oil, herbs, and seasoning every time.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Add chili powder or smoked paprika for a spicy kick that pairs well with the sweetness.
- Stir in chopped fresh sage instead of thyme for a fall-inspired flavor.
- Sprinkle crumbled feta or goat cheese instead of Parmesan for a tangy twist.
- Mix in cooked bacon bits or toasted pine nuts for extra texture and richness.
Roasted Sweet Potatoes with Garlic and Parmesan
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 3 large sweet potatoes, washed and cut into wedges
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme or 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves, chopped
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary or 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and around 25-30 minutes to roast. Overall, you’ll spend approximately 35-40 minutes from start to finish, making it a quick and easy side dish.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Oven and Sweet Potatoes:
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with olive oil. Wash and cut the sweet potatoes into even wedges to help them cook evenly.
2. Toss Sweet Potatoes with Seasonings:
In a big bowl, combine the sweet potato wedges with olive oil, minced garlic, thyme, rosemary, salt, and black pepper. Mix well so every piece is coated with the flavorful blend.
3. Roast Until Golden and Tender:
Spread the sweet potatoes in a single layer on your baking sheet, making sure they aren’t crowded. Roast them in the oven for about 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through to get that nice golden crisp on all sides. They’re done when tender inside and golden brown on the edges.
4. Add Parmesan and Serve:
Right after removing from the oven, sprinkle the grated Parmesan over the hot sweet potatoes. Toss lightly so the cheese melts and sticks to the potatoes. Transfer them to a serving bowl, garnish with fresh parsley if you like, and serve warm.
Can I Use Frozen Sweet Potato Wedges for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen sweet potato wedges, but make sure to thaw them completely and pat dry to remove excess moisture. This helps achieve a crispy texture when roasting.
How Do I Store Leftover Roasted Sweet Potatoes?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them in the oven or microwave until heated through for best texture.
Can I Substitute Parmesan Cheese?
Absolutely! You can swap Parmesan for other hard cheeses like Pecorino Romano or Grana Padano. For a dairy-free option, try nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes, prepare the sweet potatoes and season them, then refrigerate before roasting. Roast fresh just before serving to keep them crispy and flavorful.
