Garlic Parmesan Sweet Potato

Save this recipe on:

There’s something magical about the way sweet potatoes caramelize in the oven, and when you pair that natural sweetness with rich garlic and a generous shower of parmesan, you get something unforgettable. I’ve made these Garlic Parmesan Sweet Potatoes for weeknight dinners, holiday feasts, and everything in between — and they’ve never failed to impress.

What I love most is the balance. The crisp outer edges give way to a soft, fluffy center, with the garlic butter seeping into every crevice and the parmesan forming a savory crust. It’s one of those side dishes that steals the spotlight, even when served next to a beautifully roasted chicken or a juicy steak.

Why You’ll Love This Garlic Parmesan Sweet Potato

These sweet potatoes are indulgent yet wholesome, bold in flavor but incredibly easy to make. They require minimal prep, use pantry-friendly ingredients, and come out of the oven looking like they belong on a restaurant menu. You’ll love them for their crispy texture, cheesy umami punch, and the way the garlic and herbs infuse every bite.

What Kind of Sweet Potatoes Should I Use?

For the best results, opt for orange-fleshed sweet potatoes like Garnet or Jewel. They roast beautifully, developing a caramelized exterior while staying tender inside. Avoid white or purple varieties for this recipe, as they don’t offer the same creamy texture or natural sweetness that pairs so well with garlic and parmesan.

Options for Substitutions

• Butter: Swap with olive oil or vegan butter for a dairy-free version.
• Parmesan: Nutritional yeast makes a great vegan substitute with a cheesy flavor.
• Garlic: Fresh garlic is best, but garlic powder can work in a pinch.
• Parsley: Use cilantro or chives if you prefer a different herbal twist.
• Sweet Potatoes: Butternut squash can be used for a similar texture and sweetness.

---

Ingredients for this Garlic Parmesan Sweet Potato

• Sweet Potatoes: The star of the dish. They bring a natural sweetness and become perfectly caramelized when roasted.
• Olive Oil: Helps crisp the edges and keeps the potatoes moist while roasting.
• Butter: Adds richness and enhances the garlic flavor.
• Fresh Garlic: Infuses the potatoes with a deep, savory aroma.
• Parmesan Cheese: Creates a crispy, golden crust on the outside of the potatoes.
• Chopped Parsley: Brightens the dish and adds freshness.
• Salt & Black Pepper: Essential for seasoning and balancing the sweetness.

---

Step 1: Prep the Sweet Potatoes

Peel and cut the sweet potatoes into evenly sized cubes — about 1 to 1.5 inches. Uniformity ensures they cook at the same rate and develop that crispy texture on all sides.

---

Step 2: Make the Garlic Butter

Melt butter in a small saucepan over low heat. Add minced garlic and cook for 1–2 minutes until fragrant. Be careful not to brown the garlic.

---

Step 3: Toss the Potatoes

In a large bowl, combine the cubed sweet potatoes, olive oil, garlic butter, salt, and black pepper. Toss thoroughly to ensure every piece is coated.

---

Step 4: Roast Until Golden

Spread the potatoes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Make sure they aren’t crowded to allow even roasting. Roast at 425°F (220°C) for 30–35 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they’re golden brown and crispy.

---

Step 5: Add Parmesan and Broil

Sprinkle the hot roasted potatoes with grated parmesan cheese. Return them to the oven on broil for 2–3 minutes, just until the cheese melts and begins to crisp.

---

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Remove from the oven, sprinkle with chopped parsley and a final pinch of salt. Serve warm, and enjoy the crispy-cheesy goodness!

---

How Long to Prepare the Garlic Parmesan Sweet Potato

Preparation is surprisingly quick for how flavorful this dish turns out.

Prep Time: Peeling and cubing the sweet potatoes takes about 10–15 minutes, while making the garlic butter and tossing everything together adds another 5 minutes.

Cook Time: Roasting the potatoes to crispy perfection takes about 30–35 minutes at 425°F. A quick 2–3 minute broil at the end helps the parmesan crisp up beautifully. In total, you’re looking at about 45–50 minutes from start to finish.

---

Tips for Perfect Garlic Parmesan Sweet Potatoes

• Cut the sweet potatoes into uniform sizes for even roasting.
• Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet; spread them out in a single layer.
• Use freshly grated parmesan for better melting and flavor.
• Add the cheese at the end so it doesn’t burn during roasting.
• Broil briefly to give the parmesan a crisp finish without overcooking.

---

Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

• Overcrowding the pan: This traps steam and prevents crisping.
• Not flipping the potatoes: Turning them halfway ensures all sides get golden and caramelized.
• Burning the garlic: Cook garlic gently in butter to avoid bitterness.
• Skipping the broil: That final step makes a huge difference in texture.
• Using pre-shredded cheese: It often contains anti-caking agents that prevent it from melting nicely.

---

What to Serve With Garlic Parmesan Sweet Potato?

1. Herb-Crusted Roast Chicken

A savory roasted chicken complements the sweetness and richness of the sweet potatoes.

2. Grilled Steak

The crispy-cheesy potatoes pair wonderfully with a juicy grilled ribeye or sirloin.

3. Lemon Garlic Shrimp

Bright, citrusy shrimp balance the earthy sweetness and garlic notes.

4. Creamy Mushroom Pasta

The garlic and parmesan match perfectly with umami-rich pasta.

5. Simple Arugula Salad

Add a fresh and peppery contrast to the heavier flavors with a lemon-dressed salad.

---

Storage Instructions

Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven at 375°F to retain crispiness, or in an air fryer for best texture.

Freezer: These sweet potatoes don’t freeze well due to the cheese and moisture content. It’s best to enjoy them fresh or refrigerated.

Make-Ahead Tip: You can cube the sweet potatoes and prep the garlic butter a day ahead. Store separately until ready to roast.

---

Estimated Nutrition (Per Serving)

• Calories: 210
• Carbohydrates: 26g
• Protein: 3g
• Fat: 11g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Fiber: 4g
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 290mg
• Cholesterol: 10mg

---

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make the sweet potatoes crispier?

Make sure your baking sheet isn’t overcrowded, and roast at a high temperature. A quick broil at the end also helps achieve that extra crisp.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

Yes, use olive oil instead of butter, and substitute parmesan with nutritional yeast or vegan parmesan.

Should I peel the sweet potatoes?

Yes, peeling them helps create a smoother surface that crisps better and absorbs more flavor.

Can I use frozen sweet potatoes?

It’s not recommended. Fresh sweet potatoes work best for texture and roasting.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, all ingredients used are naturally gluten-free. Just double-check your parmesan cheese if you’re sensitive.

---

Conclusion

Garlic Parmesan Sweet Potatoes are one of those sides that turn any meal into a special occasion. Crispy, flavorful, and easy to prepare, they bring together the comforting sweetness of roasted potatoes with the boldness of garlic and parmesan. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a holiday table, this recipe will win everyone over.

---

Print

Save this recipe on: