Ingredients
Sweet Potatoes
- 1 1/2 pounds sweet potatoes, washed and cut into 2-inch chunks (do not peel)
Seasoning & Coating
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 2 teaspoons paprika
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
Garnish
- Extra Parmesan cheese
- Fresh herbs (parsley, chives, or rosemary)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Season Sweet Potatoes: In a large bowl, combine the sweet potato chunks with olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, kosher salt, and black pepper. Toss well to ensure all pieces are evenly coated with the seasoning.
- Prepare Parmesan Layer: Evenly spread the freshly grated Parmesan cheese over the prepared baking sheet to form a solid base layer.
- Arrange Sweet Potatoes: Place the seasoned sweet potato chunks cut-side down directly onto the Parmesan cheese layer, pressing down slightly so they stick and form a crispy crust during baking.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 25 to 32 minutes until the sweet potatoes are tender inside and the bottoms have turned crispy and golden from the Parmesan.
- Cool and Crisp: Remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the potatoes cool for about 10 minutes on the sheet, allowing the cheese to crisp up further for extra crunch.
- Serve: Use a spatula to lift the sweet potatoes off the pan carefully. Garnish with extra Parmesan cheese and fresh herbs like parsley, chives, or rosemary before serving for added flavor and presentation.
Notes
- Do not peel the sweet potatoes to maintain texture and nutrients; wash well before cutting.
- Pressing the sweet potatoes into the Parmesan cheese ensures a crispy crust develops during baking.
- Letting the potatoes cool on the baking sheet helps the cheese crispen and hold its shape.
- You can substitute Parmesan with Pecorino Romano for a sharper flavor.
- For extra spice, add a pinch of cayenne or chili powder to the seasoning mix.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator and reheat in the oven to retain crispiness.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25-32 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian