If there’s one dish that absolutely earns its place at any table, it’s Honey Roasted Sweet Potatoes. They’re everything you want in a side—golden, caramelized edges, a luscious honey-cinnamon glaze that hugs every bite, and a perfect balance of earthy, sweet, and savory flavors. Whether you’re making dinner for friends or just jazzing up a weekday meal, this recipe will become your go-to for adding vibrant color and wholesome satisfaction to your plate.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient is chosen to play a vital role, turning basic sweet potatoes into an irresistibly glossy and flavorful treat. Here’s what you’ll need and why they matter:
- Sweet Potatoes: The heart of the dish, their natural sweetness and creamy texture shine through with every roast.
- Olive Oil: Adds richness and helps the potatoes crisp up while roasting.
- Honey: Infuses a subtle floral sweetness that caramelizes in the oven for that perfect golden glaze.
- Ground Cinnamon: Provides warmth and complexity, pairing beautifully with both honey and sweet potatoes.
- Salt: Brings out all the flavors, keeping the dish balanced and savory.
- Black Pepper: Adds just a touch of spice for depth and contrast.
- Chopped Fresh Parsley (optional): Brings a pop of color and freshness, making the finished dish extra inviting.
How to Make Honey Roasted Sweet Potatoes
Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Pan
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup a breeze. Warming up the oven ahead of time sets you up for those caramelized edges you’re after.
Step 2: Toss the Sweet Potatoes
In a large mixing bowl, combine your sweet potato cubes with olive oil, honey, ground cinnamon, salt, and black pepper. Toss everything together until each chunk is beautifully coated, ensuring every bite will have that classic honey roasted sweet potatoes flavor.
Step 3: Arrange and Roast
Spread the tossed sweet potatoes out in a single layer on your prepared baking sheet. This lets the heat circulate evenly, so each cube roasts up perfectly golden and crispy on the edges. Pop the tray in the oven and roast for 25–30 minutes, turning the potatoes once halfway through, until they’re tender and caramelized.
Step 4: Garnish and Serve
When the sweet potatoes are cooked through and glistening—trust me, it’s hard to resist sneaking a bite—remove them from the oven. If you like, sprinkle some chopped fresh parsley over the top just before serving for a little extra color and freshness.
How to Serve Honey Roasted Sweet Potatoes
Garnishes
A simple handful of chopped fresh parsley is all you really need, but you can take things up a notch with toasted pecans, a drizzle of balsamic glaze, or even a sprinkle of feta cheese for a savory twist. The goal is to add a finishing pop of color and flavor without overpowering the honey roasted sweet potatoes.
Side Dishes
These sweet potatoes play well with just about any main course. Pair them with roast chicken, grilled salmon, or even a festive holiday ham. They’re also right at home alongside veggie-forward dishes like a leafy green salad or a bowl of quinoa with cranberries and herbs.
Creative Ways to Present
For a dinner party, try serving honey roasted sweet potatoes in a rustic cast iron skillet or a pretty ceramic dish. You can also toss them with roasted brussels sprouts, dried cranberries, or pumpkin seeds for extra flavor and crunch. Stack tall and garnish with a little extra honey drizzle if you want to impress your guests!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any extra honey roasted sweet potatoes fresh by storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay delicious and tender for up to four days, making them perfect for meal prep or next-day lunches.
Freezing
If you want to freeze your honey roasted sweet potatoes, let them cool completely before spreading them out on a baking sheet to freeze individually. Once frozen, transfer to a resealable freezer bag and store for up to three months. They’ll make a great addition to soups or grain bowls down the line!
Reheating
To reheat, simply pop the sweet potatoes in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10–15 minutes, or until warmed through. This keeps them from getting soggy and restores their caramelized exterior. You can also reheat in a skillet over medium heat for extra crispiness.
FAQs
Can I use other types of potatoes for honey roasted sweet potatoes?
This recipe is tailored for sweet potatoes, but you can also try it with butternut squash or a mix of sweet and regular potatoes if you’d like a medley of flavors and colors.
Is there a vegan alternative to honey in this recipe?
Absolutely! Swap the honey for pure maple syrup or agave nectar if you want to keep the dish strictly plant-based, and the results will still be delicious and sticky-sweet.
How can I make these extra crispy?
For even crispier results, make sure to spread the potatoes in a single, uncrowded layer and roast them on convection setting if your oven has one. Turning them halfway also helps ensure every side gets contact with the pan for the best caramelization.
What seasonings can I add for more depth?
Try adding a pinch of smoked paprika for a little smoky flavor or a splash of balsamic vinegar for a bright tangy note. Both options elevate honey roasted sweet potatoes with minimal effort.
Can I prep this dish ahead of time?
You can peel and cube your sweet potatoes and mix the glaze ingredients a day in advance. Store everything separately in the fridge, then toss and roast right before serving for fresh, vibrant flavor.
Final Thoughts
Once you taste the magic of honey roasted sweet potatoes, you’ll find yourself making them on repeat—whether it’s for a cozy weeknight dinner or a festive gathering. So grab a sweet potato or two, fire up the oven, and treat yourself to this colorful, crowd-pleasing side that just never goes out of style!
