If you have a craving for a snack or side that’s irresistibly crunchy on the outside and soft on the inside, this Crispy Smashed Sweet Potatoes Recipe is exactly what you need. It takes humble sweet potatoes and transforms them with a perfect golden crust, a sprinkle of aromatic seasonings, and a touch of olive oil that brings out their natural sweetness. Whether you’re new to cooking sweet potatoes or a seasoned pro looking for a fun twist, this recipe promises a delightful combination of textures and flavors that will quickly become a household favorite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward but essential for infusing the sweet potatoes with just the right balance of flavor and achieving that coveted crispy texture. Each one plays a key role in turning simple tubers into a delicious treat that’s both comforting and exciting.
- 2 medium sweet potatoes (about 1 pound): Choose firm and brightly colored sweet potatoes for the best taste and texture.
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil: Adds richness and helps create that golden, crispy exterior during baking.
- 1 tsp sea salt: Enhances the natural sweetness and adds essential seasoning.
- ½ tsp black pepper: Provides a subtle kick to balance the dish’s sweetness.
- ½ tsp garlic powder: Delivers a savory depth without overpowering the sweet potatoes.
- Fresh herbs (optional): Fresh rosemary, thyme, or parsley can brighten up the final presentation and flavor.
How to Make Crispy Smashed Sweet Potatoes Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Potatoes
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). While it warms up, scrub your sweet potatoes thoroughly to remove any dirt. Cut them into halves or quarters so they cook evenly and are easy to smash later.
Step 2: Boil Until Fork-Tender
Place the cut sweet potatoes into salted boiling water and cook for about 15 minutes. You want them soft enough to easily flatten but not falling apart. Once tender, drain the water and let them cool just enough so they’re safe to handle.
Step 3: Smash and Season
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup, then gently press each potato piece down with the bottom of a glass or your hand until it’s flattened but still mostly intact. Drizzle the extra virgin olive oil evenly over each one and sprinkle with sea salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and any fresh herbs you love.
Step 4: Bake Until Crispy and Golden
Slide the baking sheet into the oven and roast the smashed sweet potatoes for 25 to 30 minutes. Keep an eye on them as they turn beautifully golden and develop crispy edges, which adds incredible texture to each bite.
Step 5: Serve Warm
Once out of the oven, these crispy smashed sweet potatoes are best enjoyed warm to truly appreciate their crunchy outside and soft center. Don’t hesitate to add a pinch more salt or herbs right before serving for that extra pop of freshness.
How to Serve Crispy Smashed Sweet Potatoes Recipe
Garnishes
Simple garnishes such as a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley, chives, or even crumbled feta cheese can elevate the flavor and visual appeal. A drizzle of tangy yogurt or a dollop of sour cream pairs beautifully, adding creaminess that contrasts delightfully with the crisp edges.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken, seared salmon, or a hearty vegetable stew. It also shines alongside a fresh green salad for a lighter meal or as a fun appetizer when served with a variety of dips like spicy aioli or zesty guacamole.
Creative Ways to Present
Arrange the crispy smashed sweet potatoes on a large platter topped with a vibrant herb gremolata or a sprinkle of toasted nuts for added crunch. For a festive touch, create a layering effect with alternating colors of roasted veggies or drizzle a balsamic reduction for a tangy glaze that catches the eye.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, store leftover crispy smashed sweet potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh for up to 3 days and retain much of their texture, making them perfect for quick reheats during busy weeknights.
Freezing
You can freeze these cooked potatoes by arranging them in a single layer on a baking sheet first, freezing until solid, and then transferring them to a freezer-safe bag or container. This method prevents sticking and keeps them fresh for up to 2 months.
Reheating
To recapture that crispy exterior when reheating, avoid the microwave which can make the potatoes soggy. Instead, pop them back into a hot oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 10 minutes or use an air fryer for a few minutes until they regain their crunch and warmth.
FAQs
Can I use regular potatoes instead of sweet potatoes?
Absolutely! While this Crispy Smashed Sweet Potatoes Recipe highlights sweetness and natural sugars, regular potatoes will work similarly with minor adjustments in cooking time due to their different moisture content.
How do I make sure my sweet potatoes get crispy?
Dry your sweet potatoes thoroughly after boiling and before smashing. Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet, and use enough olive oil to coat each piece well. High oven heat is also essential to get that golden, crispy crust.
Are there alternative seasonings I can try?
Definitely! Paprika or smoked paprika adds a smoky layer, chili powder brings heat, and cinnamon complements the sweet notes exquisitely. Mix and match to discover your favorite flavor profile.
Can this recipe be made vegan?
Yes! The recipe is naturally vegan as it uses olive oil and plant-based seasonings. Just be sure your garnishes like sour cream or cheese are swapped for vegan alternatives if you want to keep it entirely plant-based.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
It sure is! Sweet potatoes, olive oil, and seasonings are all gluten-free, making this recipe safe and tasty for anyone avoiding gluten in their diet.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend this Crispy Smashed Sweet Potatoes Recipe enough for anyone looking to add a little excitement to their side dishes. It’s simple, flexible, and utterly delicious—a true crowd-pleaser that fits every occasion. Give it a try and watch how quickly these golden beauties disappear right from your plate!
Print
Crispy Smashed Sweet Potatoes Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Crispy Smashed Sweet Potatoes are a delicious and easy-to-make side dish featuring tender boiled sweet potatoes, smashed and baked to golden, crispy perfection. Perfectly seasoned with olive oil, garlic powder, sea salt, and black pepper, and optionally garnished with fresh herbs, this recipe offers a comforting, flavorful addition to any meal.
Ingredients
Sweet Potatoes
- 2 medium sweet potatoes (about 1 pound)
Seasoning & Garnish
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tsp sea salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- Fresh herbs (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) to ensure it’s ready for baking the smashed sweet potatoes.
- Prepare Sweet Potatoes: Scrub the sweet potatoes clean to remove any dirt, then cut them into halves or quarters for even cooking.
- Boil Potatoes: Boil the potato pieces in salted water for about 15 minutes until they become fork-tender. Drain well and allow them to cool slightly to handle safely.
- Smash Potatoes: Place the boiled sweet potato pieces on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Gently smash each piece with the bottom of a glass or a potato masher until flat but keeping them intact.
- Season: Drizzle the smashed potatoes with extra virgin olive oil, then sprinkle evenly with sea salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and fresh herbs if using, to enhance flavor.
- Bake: Bake the prepared sweet potatoes in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes until they turn golden brown and crispy around the edges.
- Serve: Remove from the oven and serve warm, enjoying the crispy texture combined with the natural sweetness of the potatoes.
Notes
- Use medium-sized sweet potatoes to ensure even cooking and smashing.
- Boiling time may vary slightly depending on the potato size; check doneness by piercing with a fork.
- Fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, or parsley complement the flavor nicely.
- For extra crispiness, you can broil the potatoes for the last 2-3 minutes, watching closely to avoid burning.
- Serve as a side dish with grilled meats, salads, or as a vegetarian main option.
