Roasted Caramelized Sweet Potatoes – Crispy Edges, Sweet Center!
Looking for a simple, healthy, and delicious side dish? These oven-roasted caramelized sweet potatoes are naturally sweet, perfectly tender, and loaded with flavor. The crispy edges and golden glaze make them an irresistible addition to any meal – from holiday spreads to everyday dinners.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
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Uses just a handful of ingredients
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Naturally sweetened with no added sugar required
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Perfectly roasted with caramelized edges
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Vegan, gluten-free, and full of fiber
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Ideal as a side dish, snack, or even a healthy dessert option
Ingredients
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3–4 medium sweet potatoes, halved lengthwise
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2 tbsp olive oil (or melted butter)
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1/2 tsp sea salt
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1/2 tsp ground cinnamon (optional)
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1/2 tsp smoked paprika (optional for savory depth)
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Fresh or dried thyme (a few sprigs or 1/2 tsp)
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1 tbsp maple syrup or honey (optional for extra glaze)
Instructions
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Preheat Oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly oil a glass baking dish.
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Prep the Sweet Potatoes:
Wash and dry the sweet potatoes. Slice each in half lengthwise. Score the flesh lightly with a knife in a criss-cross pattern for more surface area and flavor absorption. -
Season:
Brush the cut sides with olive oil (or melted butter). Sprinkle with salt, cinnamon, paprika, and thyme. For extra caramelization, drizzle with maple syrup or honey. -
Bake:
Place sweet potatoes cut side down on the baking dish. Roast for 35–45 minutes or until the edges are dark and crisp, and the centers are soft and creamy. -
Serve:
Let them cool for 5 minutes, then flip and serve warm. Sprinkle with extra herbs or flaky salt for a fancy finish!
Notes & Variations
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Spicy Option: Add a dash of cayenne or chili flakes for a sweet-spicy contrast.
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Crispier Finish: Broil for the last 2–3 minutes for an extra-charred edge.
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Sweet Twist: Add a sprinkle of brown sugar before baking for a dessert-style version.
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Storage: Keeps well in the fridge for 3–4 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer for best texture.
Perfect Pairings
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Roast chicken or turkey
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Grilled salmon or BBQ tofu
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Grain bowls and fall salads
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Thanksgiving and Christmas dinner tables

Roasted Caramelized Sweet Potatoes
Description
These roasted caramelized sweet potatoes are crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and naturally sweet. With golden edges and a rich, earthy flavor, they’re the perfect easy side dish for weeknights, holidays, or healthy snacking.
Ingredients
-
3–4 medium sweet potatoes, halved lengthwise
-
2 tbsp olive oil or melted butter
-
1/2 tsp sea salt
-
1/2 tsp ground cinnamon (optional)
-
1/2 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
-
1 tbsp maple syrup or honey (optional for extra caramelization)
-
1/2 tsp dried thyme or a few sprigs of fresh thyme
Instructions
-
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a baking dish or line with parchment paper.
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Prepare potatoes:
Wash, dry, and slice the sweet potatoes in half lengthwise. Score the flesh in a criss-cross pattern with a knife to help absorb flavor. -
Season:
Brush the cut sides with olive oil or melted butter. Sprinkle with salt, cinnamon, paprika, and thyme. Drizzle with maple syrup or honey for a sweeter, stickier finish. -
Roast:
Place the sweet potatoes cut side down in the dish. Bake for 35–45 minutes, or until caramelized and fork-tender with darkened edges. -
Serve:
Let cool for 5 minutes, flip them over, and serve warm. Optional: garnish with flaky salt or extra thyme.
Notes
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For extra crispiness, broil for 2–3 minutes at the end.
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Spicy variation: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a sweet-and-spicy combo.
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Storage: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
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Reheat: Use oven or air fryer to maintain crisp texture.