These maple roasted sweet potatoes are a perfect side dish! Tossed in sweet maple syrup, they get a nice caramelized finish that makes them incredibly tasty.
They’re super easy to make too! I love having them with my dinner, and let’s be honest, the sweet smell filling the kitchen is just the best. 🥰
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Sweet Potatoes: These are the star of the dish! They should be firm, with smooth skin. If you can’t find sweet potatoes, yams or butternut squash make great substitutes too.
Maple Syrup: Pure maple syrup adds a wonderful sweetness. If you have none on hand, honey or agave syrup can be used, but they will slightly change the flavor.
Thyme: Fresh thyme adds a lovely herbal note. If you don’t have fresh, dried thyme works fine. I often increase the amount of thyme for a more pronounced flavor. You could also try rosemary for a different twist!
Cinnamon: This adds warmth and depth. It’s optional but really enhances the taste! If you’re looking for a little zest, consider using nutmeg or pumpkin spice, especially in fall.
How Do I Get the Perfect Texture When Roasting Sweet Potatoes?
Getting that nice caramelized exterior and tender inside is key. Here are some tips:
- Cut sweet potatoes into even-sized cubes (about 1 inch) so they cook at the same rate.
- Toss them well in oil and maple syrup to ensure every piece is coated. This helps them caramelize nicely.
- Spread them out in a single layer on the baking sheet. Overcrowding can lead to steaming rather than roasting.
- Stir halfway through cooking to promote even browning and check for tenderness.
How to Make Maple Roasted Sweet Potatoes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 tablespoons pure maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (or 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme)
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 small shallot, finely chopped (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious side dish takes about 10 minutes to prep and 25 to 30 minutes to roast, so you’ll have everything ready in about 40 minutes. Perfect for any meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This is important for getting those sweet potatoes nice and caramelized. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or give it a light grease to prevent sticking.
2. Toss the Sweet Potatoes:
In a large bowl, take your sweet potato cubes and add the olive oil, maple syrup, chopped shallot (if using), fresh thyme, ground cinnamon (if you want that extra warmth), salt, and pepper. Toss everything together until the sweet potatoes are evenly coated with the yummy mixture!
3. Arrange for Roasting:
Now, spread the coated sweet potatoes out in a single layer on your baking sheet. Make sure they aren’t too crowded—you want them to roast properly, not steam!
4. Roast in the Oven:
Pop the baking sheet into your preheated oven and let the sweet potatoes roast for about 25 to 30 minutes. Give them a good stir halfway through to help them caramelize evenly. They should turn tender on the inside and golden-brown on the outside.
5. Final Touches:
Once they’re done, take the sweet potatoes out of the oven. Taste them to see if they need any extra seasoning. If you like, you can sprinkle on a few extra fresh thyme leaves for a beautiful garnish.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your warm maple roasted sweet potatoes as a delightful side dish. Their sweet and savory flavors will surely win the hearts of your family and friends!
Enjoy your meal! 😊
Can I Use Other Types of Potatoes?
Absolutely! While sweet potatoes are recommended for their natural sweetness, you can also use butternut squash or regular potatoes for a different flavor and texture. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegan?
This recipe is already vegan-friendly if you stick to the maple syrup and omit the optional shallot. It’s delicious without compromising on taste!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store leftover maple roasted sweet potatoes in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them back in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes to restore their crispiness.
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Yes! Feel free to mix in other vegetables like carrots or Brussels sprouts. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time as needed, depending on the vegetable sizes and types.
