Easy Roasted Sweet Potatoes with Herbs and Parmesan
Easy Roasted Sweet Potatoes with Herbs and Parmesan are a simple and tasty side dish that brings together the sweetness of the potatoes with the sharpness of Parmesan cheese and…
Tip: save now, cook later.Easy Roasted Sweet Potatoes with Herbs and Parmesan are a simple and tasty side dish that brings together the sweetness of the potatoes with the sharpness of Parmesan cheese and the fresh flavor of herbs. These potatoes get beautifully caramelized in the oven, making them crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. The mix of herbs like rosemary and thyme adds a lovely punch that pairs perfectly with the nutty cheese.
I love making this recipe when I want something quick but full of flavor. It’s one of those dishes that everyone seems to enjoy, and it’s super forgiving – if you want it a little crispier, just roast it a bit longer. I like sprinkling extra Parmesan on top right before serving to get that extra cheesy goodness.
This recipe is great for busy weeknights or as a side for holiday meals. I often serve it alongside roasted chicken or a big green salad. It’s one of those comforting dishes that’s easy to bring to the table and always disappears fast. Plus, it makes the kitchen smell amazing while it’s roasting!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Sweet Potatoes: The star of this dish! Use firm, large sweet potatoes for even slices. You can swap with yams or regular potatoes if needed, but the flavor will be different.
Olive Oil: This adds healthy fats and helps crisp the potatoes. You can use avocado oil or melted butter for a richer flavor.
Parmesan Cheese: Parmesan brings a salty, nutty touch that balances the sweetness. If you’re dairy-free, try nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.
Herbs (Thyme and Rosemary): Fresh or dried works well. Fresh herbs add brightness, while dried have deeper flavors. You can substitute with sage or oregano for variety.
Garlic Powder: Adds a savory kick with little effort. Fresh minced garlic can be used but add it carefully to avoid burning during roasting.
How Can You Get Crispy, Tender Roasted Sweet Potatoes?
To get that perfect crispy outside and tender inside, here’s what helps:
- Slice evenly about 1/4-inch thick so they cook uniformly.
- Coat well with oil to help the surface crisp up.
- Lay slices in a single layer without overlapping – crowding traps steam and makes them soggy.
- Flip halfway through roasting to brown both sides.
- Roast at a relatively high temperature (400°F / 200°C) to get caramelization without drying them out.
- If you want extra crispiness, sprinkle a little more Parmesan toward the end.
Following these tips will help your roasted sweet potatoes turn out both tender and delightfully crispy every time!
Equipment You’ll Need
- Baking sheet – big enough to arrange sweet potato slices in a single layer for even roasting.
- Parchment paper or silicone baking mat – helps prevent sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.
- Large mixing bowl – makes it easy to toss sweet potatoes with oil, herbs, and Parmesan.
- Sharp knife – ensures uniform 1/4-inch slices for even cooking.
- Spatula or tongs – handy for flipping the sweet potatoes halfway through roasting.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap Parmesan for feta or goat cheese – adds a tangy and creamy twist perfect for summer meals.
- Add a sprinkle of smoked paprika or chili powder – gives the dish a warm, smoky, or spicy kick.
- Mix in chopped fresh rosemary or sage instead of thyme – offers a different herbal flavor to match your main dish.
- Toss with cooked bacon bits or toasted pine nuts – adds crunch and a savory depth.
Easy Roasted Sweet Potatoes with Herbs and Parmesan
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and sliced into 1/4-inch rounds
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves)
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary (or 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh thyme sprigs, for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 25 to 30 minutes to roast. It’s a quick and easy side dish perfect for busy days or when you want a tasty, healthy addition to your meal.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Oven and Baking Sheet:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to keep the sweet potatoes from sticking.
2. Toss Sweet Potatoes with Seasonings:
In a large bowl, add the sweet potato slices and drizzle with olive oil. Mix well so all slices get coated evenly. Next, add the grated Parmesan, thyme, rosemary, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Toss again until the slices are fully covered with the herbs, cheese, and seasonings.
3. Roast the Sweet Potatoes:
Arrange the sweet potato slices in a single layer on the baking sheet, making sure they don’t overlap. Roast them in the oven for 25 to 30 minutes, flipping them halfway through. Watch for golden brown edges and tender centers to know they’re ready.
4. Finish and Serve:
Once done, you can sprinkle a little extra Parmesan on top for more cheesy flavor. Transfer the slices to a serving dish and garnish with fresh thyme sprigs if you like. Enjoy your warm, flavorful roasted sweet potatoes!
Can I Use Frozen Sweet Potato Slices?
It’s best to use fresh sweet potatoes for roasting since frozen slices can become mushy. If you must use frozen, thaw them completely and pat dry to remove excess moisture before roasting.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can roast the sweet potatoes in advance and store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to regain crispness.
What Can I Substitute for Parmesan Cheese?
If you’re avoiding dairy, nutritional yeast is a great vegan alternative that provides a cheesy flavor. You can also use Pecorino Romano or Asiago cheese for a different twist.
How Do I Make the Sweet Potatoes Crispier?
To get extra crispy edges, make sure the slices are thin and spaced apart on the baking sheet. Increasing oven temperature slightly to 425°F (220°C) and roasting a few minutes longer can also help.
