Easy Roasted Sweet Potatoes with Herbs and Parmesan is a simple side dish that’s full of flavor without a lot of fuss. The sweet potatoes get beautifully tender and caramelized in the oven, while the fresh herbs add a touch of brightness. The sprinkle of Parmesan cheese on top gives a nice salty, cheesy finish that makes this dish really special.
I love making this recipe because it feels like the perfect balance between sweet and savory. I usually toss the sweet potatoes with olive oil, rosemary or thyme, and garlic before roasting, and then add the Parmesan right at the end so it melts just a little. It’s one of those recipes where everyone always asks for seconds, which makes me feel like a kitchen hero every time!
This dish pairs wonderfully with so many meals, whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a holiday spread. I often serve it alongside roasted chicken or grilled steak, but honestly, it’s just as good on its own as a snack. If you want to mix things up, try adding a pinch of chili flakes for a little kick. Either way, it’s easy, tasty, and a total crowd-pleaser!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
- Sweet Potatoes
- These are the star of the dish. Their natural sweetness turns richer when roasted. You can leave the skin on for extra fiber and texture – just be sure to wash them well. If you prefer, try orange or purple sweet potatoes for color variety.
- Olive Oil
- This helps the potatoes roast evenly and crisp up. If you’re out, avocado oil or melted butter are great substitutes and add a nice flavor.
- Herbs (Rosemary or Thyme)
- Both add an earthy touch. Fresh herbs give a brighter flavor, but dried herbs work well too. If you don’t have these, sage or oregano are good alternatives.
- Garlic
- Fresh minced garlic adds depth and aroma. If you want a milder garlic taste, use garlic powder instead, but add less—about half a teaspoon.
- Parmesan Cheese
- This adds a salty, nutty finish. You can substitute with Pecorino Romano or Asiago, or skip it entirely for a dairy-free version and add a sprinkle of nutritional yeast for a cheesy note.
How Can I Get Crispy, Perfectly Roasted Sweet Potatoes?
Getting the sweet potatoes crispy outside and tender inside is easy if you follow these tips:
- Cut the potatoes into evenly sized chunks. About 1 ½ inches works well to cook through without burning.
- Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet. Give each piece space so the heat circulates and helps them roast rather than steam.
- Coat the sweet potatoes fully but lightly in oil. Too little oil and they may stick; too much and they get soggy.
- Roast at a high temperature (425°F or 220°C) to encourage browning and caramelization.
- Flip the potatoes halfway through baking to get even color and crispiness on all sides.
- Sprinkle Parmesan immediately after roasting while they’re hot, so it melts nicely without burning in the oven.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Baking sheet – A large, rimmed one helps spread out the sweet potatoes for even roasting.
- Parchment paper or silicone baking mat – Makes cleanup easy and prevents sticking.
- Large mixing bowl – Perfect for tossing the sweet potatoes with oil and herbs evenly.
- Sharp knife and cutting board – For cutting sweet potatoes safely and evenly.
- Grater – Handy for grating fresh Parmesan cheese over the hot potatoes.
- Spatula or tongs – To turn the potatoes halfway through cooking without breaking them.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Add a pinch of chili flakes or smoked paprika for a little heat and smoky depth.
- Swap Parmesan for crumbled feta or goat cheese to add tangy creaminess right before serving.
- Mix in roasted garlic cloves or caramelized onions for extra sweet, mellow flavors.
- Toss the potatoes with chopped fresh basil or cilantro after roasting for a fresh herbal twist.
Easy Roasted Sweet Potatoes with Herbs and Parmesan
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Sweet Potatoes:
- 3 large sweet potatoes (about 2 pounds), scrubbed and cut into 1 ½-inch chunks
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary or thyme (or 2 teaspoons fresh, chopped)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt, to taste (about 1 teaspoon)
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For the Topping:
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and about 25-30 minutes to roast the sweet potatoes in the oven. So overall, you’ll spend around 35-40 minutes from start to finish, including a quick mix and bake step. Perfect for a simple, delicious side!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Oven and Baking Sheet:
First, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it so the sweet potatoes don’t stick and cleanup is easier.
2. Season the Sweet Potatoes:
Put the cut sweet potatoes into a large bowl. Add the olive oil, minced garlic, your choice of rosemary or thyme, salt, and pepper. Toss everything together well until the potatoes are evenly coated with the oil and seasonings.
3. Roast the Potatoes:
Spread the seasoned sweet potatoes out in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Be sure not to crowd them too much—that way they’ll roast nicely instead of steaming. Place the sheet in the oven and roast for 25-30 minutes. Halfway through baking, turn the pieces over with a spatula so they brown evenly on all sides.
4. Add Parmesan and Serve:
When the sweet potatoes are tender inside and golden on the outside, take the baking sheet out of the oven. While the potatoes are still hot, sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese all over. It will soften and melt slightly for a tasty finish. Transfer the potatoes to a serving dish, garnish with fresh chopped parsley, and add a little extra black pepper if you like. Serve warm and enjoy!
Can I Use Frozen Sweet Potatoes for This Recipe?
It’s best to use fresh sweet potatoes for roasting to get that perfect texture. If you only have frozen, thaw them completely and pat dry to remove extra moisture before roasting, but the results may be softer.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes! Roast the sweet potatoes in advance and store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10 minutes to restore crispiness before adding the Parmesan.
What Can I Substitute for Parmesan Cheese?
You can swap Parmesan for Pecorino Romano, Asiago, or even crumbled feta for a different but delicious flavor twist. For a dairy-free option, try nutritional yeast sprinkled on top.
How Do I Store Leftover Roasted Sweet Potatoes?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in the oven or microwave, adding a sprinkle of Parmesan fresh if desired to boost flavor.