These crispy smashed sweet potatoes are a yummy twist on a classic side dish! They’re soft inside, with a crunchy outside, making them hard to resist.
I love them with a sprinkle of salt and a dash of your favorite herbs. Perfect for dinner, snack time, or any time you need a tasty treat! 🥔✨
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Sweet Potatoes: The star of this dish! Look for medium-sized sweet potatoes that feel firm. If they’re not in season, you could substitute with other root vegetables like Yukon gold potatoes or butternut squash for a different flavor.
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil is my go-to for its rich flavor. If you’re out, you can use avocado oil or melted coconut oil, which also have great taste and health benefits.
Garlic Powder: This adds depth to the dish. If you prefer fresh, use 1-2 cloves of minced garlic instead. Just sprinkle it over the potatoes before baking for that lovely garlic aroma.
Smoked Paprika: It gives a subtle smokiness. You can use regular paprika if you don’t have smoked, but it won’t have that same flavor. If you’re a spice lover, try a pinch of cayenne for some heat!
Greek Yogurt: This is optional but adds creaminess. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, try coconut yogurt or a tahini dip for a similar texture.
How Do I Get My Sweet Potatoes Crispy?
Getting those crispy edges on your smashed sweet potatoes hinges on a few key steps. Here’s how to achieve that crunch:
- After boiling, make sure to drain the sweet potatoes well. Excess water can make them soggy.
- When you smash them, leave some thickness around the edges. Thinner edges crisp up better!
- Generously brush the olive oil mixture over them before baking. This helps with browning.
- Finally, flipping them halfway through baking is crucial. It ensures both sides get crispy and golden.
Follow these tips, and you’ll have a delicious and crispy snack or side dish! Enjoy your cooking adventure!
How to Make Crispy Smashed Sweet Potatoes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Sweet Potatoes:
- 4 medium sweet potatoes
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Fresh thyme leaves (for garnish)
For Dipping:
- ½ cup Greek yogurt (optional)
- Honey (for drizzling, optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15-20 minutes for preparation and 30-35 minutes for baking. Overall, you’ll spend about an hour to make these crispy smashed sweet potatoes that are perfect for a delicious side dish or snack!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
First things first! Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). This will get it nice and hot for crisping up the sweet potatoes.
2. Prepare the Sweet Potatoes:
Give your sweet potatoes a good wash and scrub to get rid of any dirt. Place them in a large pot and cover them with water. Bring the pot to a boil and cook the sweet potatoes for about 15-20 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when you can easily poke them with a fork.
3. Cool and Smash:
Once the sweet potatoes are fork-tender, drain the water and let them cool a bit. When they’re cool enough to handle, you can peel off the skins if you’d like. Then, place the potatoes on a lined baking sheet. Now for the fun part—grab a fork or a potato masher and gently smash each potato down to flatten them into discs.
4. Season the Potatoes:
In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. Brush this flavorful mixture generously over your smashed sweet potatoes. Make sure each one gets a nice coating to enhance their taste!
5. Bake for Crispiness:
Now it’s time to bake! Place the baking sheet in your preheated oven and let them bake for 25-30 minutes. Be sure to flip them halfway through so they get crispy all around. You’ll know they’re ready when the edges are crispy and browned.
6. Garnish and Serve:
Once baked, take them out of the oven and let them cool slightly. For an extra touch, sprinkle fresh thyme leaves on top. Serve these delicious crispy smashed sweet potatoes warm with a side of Greek yogurt for dipping and drizzle with honey if you like a sweet touch. Enjoy your tasty bites!
Can I Use Other Types of Potatoes?
Yes! You can substitute regular potatoes or even Yukon Golds for sweet potatoes in this recipe. Just remember, cooking times may vary slightly, so check for fork-tenderness before smashing!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover smashed sweet potatoes in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop them back in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through for that crispy edge again!
Can I Add Other Seasonings?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different spices such as cumin, chili powder, or rosemary. You can also add a sprinkle of cheese on top for extra flavor before baking!
Can I Make This Recipe Vegan?
Yes, simply omit the Greek yogurt or use a plant-based yogurt alternative for dipping, and leave out the honey or replace it with maple syrup for a vegan-friendly option!
