These garlic butter roasted sweet potatoes are a tasty side dish that everyone will love! The sweet potatoes get a golden crust while staying soft and sweet inside, thanks to the yummy garlic butter.
I can’t resist the smell of these potatoes baking! They’re perfect with just about any meal, and you might end up snacking on them right from the pan. Who can blame you? 🥔💛
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Sweet Potatoes: These are the star of the dish! Look for firm, unblemished sweet potatoes. If you’re in a pinch, you can use regular potatoes, but the unique flavor of sweet potatoes is hard to beat.
Butter: Unsalted butter is best for controlling the salt level. If you’re keeping it dairy-free, coconut oil works nicely, giving a hint of sweetness that goes well with sweet potatoes.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is key here. If you don’t have any, garlic powder can work in a pinch. Just remember, use only 1/4 teaspoon of garlic powder for each clove.
Parsley: Fresh parsley is great for adding color and a bit of freshness. If you don’t have it, consider using chives or cilantro for a different flavor twist.
Olive Oil: While optional, a drizzle of olive oil adds that yummy, crispy texture. If you want to skip it, try using a bit of avocado oil instead.
How Do I Achieve Perfectly Roasted Sweet Potatoes?
Roasting sweet potatoes to perfection means getting that nice, caramelized edge while keeping the inside tender. Here are some important steps:
- Preheat your oven to ensure even cooking. 400°F (200°C) is just right for a crispy outside.
- After slicing, always brush on the garlic butter generously to maximize flavor. Don’t skimp here!
- If you want extra crispiness, the optional olive oil can be a game changer. Just a light drizzle works wonders.
- Make sure to check the potatoes at the 25-minute mark. The cooking time can vary based on their size.
Let them cool a bit before serving to help retain moisture and flavor!
How to Make Garlic Butter Roasted Sweet Potatoes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Sweet Potatoes:
- 4 medium sweet potatoes
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil (optional, for drizzling)
For Garnish:
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 25-30 minutes to roast in the oven. Altogether, you’ll need around 40 minutes to make a delicious side dish of garlic butter roasted sweet potatoes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This step is important to ensure that the sweet potatoes roast evenly and become nicely golden brown.
2. Prepare the Sweet Potatoes:
Wash the sweet potatoes thoroughly and then peel off their skins. Using a sharp knife, slice each sweet potato in half lengthwise. This will help them cook faster and allow the flavors to soak in.
3. Make the Garlic Butter:
In a small saucepan over medium heat, add the unsalted butter and let it melt. Once melted, add the minced garlic and sauté it for about 1-2 minutes. You want it to smell amazing but be careful not to let it brown!
4. Arrange the Sweet Potatoes:
Grab a baking sheet and place the sweet potato halves cut side up. This will allow the garlic butter to soak in beautifully.
5. Add the Garlic Butter:
Using a brush or a spoon, evenly spread the garlic butter mixture over each sweet potato half. Season them with salt and pepper to your liking for added flavor.
6. (Optional) Add Olive Oil:
If you want your sweet potatoes to be extra crispy, drizzle a bit of olive oil on top before roasting. This step is completely optional, but it adds a nice touch!
7. Roast in the Oven:
Pop the baking sheet into the oven and roast the sweet potatoes for about 25-30 minutes. Keep an eye on them; they’re done when the edges are golden brown and a fork can easily poke through.
8. Garnish and Serve:
When they are done roasting, carefully take them out of the oven and let them cool slightly. Sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley for a burst of color and freshness before serving. Enjoy your flavorful garlic butter roasted sweet potatoes!
Can I Use Olive Oil Instead of Butter?
Absolutely! If you prefer a dairy-free option, simply replace the butter with olive oil. Use about 4 tablespoons of olive oil and mix in the minced garlic with it. This will give you a deliciously roasted flavor without the dairy!
How Can I Adjust Cooking Time for Different Sweet Potato Sizes?
If your sweet potatoes are larger or smaller than medium, you may need to adjust the cooking time. For larger sweet potatoes, consider increasing the roast time by 5-10 minutes. For smaller ones, check for tenderness around the 20-minute mark to ensure they’re not overcooked.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes or until warmed through for the best texture!
Can I Add Other Spices or Ingredients?
Definitely! Feel free to experiment by adding spices like paprika, cayenne pepper, or rosemary for extra flavor. You can also sprinkle some shredded cheese over the sweet potatoes in the last few minutes of roasting for a cheesy twist!