Looking for a delicious, healthy, and incredibly versatile side dish? These crispy sweet potato cubes are the answer! Perfectly roasted to achieve a caramelized sweetness on the outside and a tender, fluffy interior, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. It’s the ideal way to elevate any meal, from simple weeknight dinners to festive holiday gatherings.
The crispy texture and naturally sweet flavor make them incredibly moreish, and the simple preparation makes them a winner in the kitchen too. These are great for both adults and kids!
What are Crispy Sweet Potato Cubes?
Crispy sweet potato cubes are essentially diced sweet potatoes that are tossed in oil, seasoned, and then roasted in the oven until they develop a beautifully crispy exterior and a soft, almost melt-in-your-mouth interior. This roasting method transforms the humble sweet potato into a delightful side dish with a wonderful contrast of textures. The natural sugars in the sweet potato caramelize during roasting, enhancing its sweetness and creating a irresistible flavor profile.
Whether you’re looking for a healthy alternative to fries or a vibrant addition to your dinner table, these crispy sweet potato cubes are a perfect choice. They’re also incredibly adaptable – you can customize the seasonings to suit your taste preferences, making them a versatile option for any meal. So, gather your sweet potatoes, preheat your oven, and get ready to experience the magic of deliciously roasted sweet potato cubes! You’ve got to try these, they are so easy and are a hit with everyone!
Key Ingredients for Crispy Sweet Potato Cubes:
- 2 large sweet potatoes (about 2 pounds), peeled and cubed into roughly 1-inch pieces: Choose firm sweet potatoes with smooth skin for best results. Uniform cubes ensure even cooking.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Provides the necessary fat for crisping and adds a subtle flavor. You can also use avocado oil or coconut oil.
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt: Enhances the sweet potato’s natural sweetness and balances the flavors.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a touch of spice and depth to the flavor.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Provides a savory element that complements the sweetness.
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika: Adds a smoky flavor that elevates the dish.
- Optional seasonings: Feel free to add other spices like cinnamon, cayenne pepper, or dried herbs (rosemary, thyme) to customize the flavor.
How to Make Crispy Sweet Potato Cubes:
These crispy sweet potato cubes prove that amazing flavors don’t require hours in the kitchen. This recipe is incredibly easy to make, requiring minimal prep time and simple ingredients. The sweet potatoes are simply cubed, tossed in oil and seasonings, and then roasted to perfection.
The result is a deliciously crispy and tender side dish that’s ready in about 30 minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights or a quick addition to your weekend meals.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Make sure your oven is fully preheated to ensure even cooking and maximum crispiness.
- Prepare the sweet potatoes: Peel the sweet potatoes and cut them into roughly 1-inch cubes. Aim for uniform size for even cooking.
- Season the sweet potatoes: In a large bowl, toss the sweet potato cubes with olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. Ensure that the cubes are evenly coated with the oil and seasonings. You can also use your hands to do this to achieve a more even coating, although that can be messy at times.
- Arrange on a baking sheet: Spread the seasoned sweet potato cubes in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Using parchment paper prevents sticking and makes clean-up easier. Avoid overcrowding the pan, as this will steam the sweet potatoes instead of roasting them. If needed, use two baking sheets or roast in batches.
- Roast: Roast for 20-25 minutes, flipping the sweet potato cubes halfway through, until they are tender on the inside and crispy and browned on the outside. The roasting time may vary depending on your oven, so keep an eye on them and adjust the time as needed.
- Serve: Remove the sweet potato cubes from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving. Serve immediately for the best crispiness.
Why You’ll Love This Crispy Sweet Potato Cubes:
These crispy sweet potato cubes are more than just a side dish; they’re a flavorful experience that will have you coming back for more. The star of the show is undoubtedly the perfectly crisp exterior paired with the soft, melt-in-your-mouth interior. This contrasting texture is what sets these sweet potato cubes apart. Making these at home is also a fantastic way to save money compared to ordering them at a restaurant or buying pre-made options.
You control the quality of the ingredients and the portion sizes, making it a budget-friendly choice. The blend of smoked paprika, garlic powder, and the natural sweetness of the sweet potato creates a truly irresistible flavor profile. Feel free to add a sprinkle of cinnamon for a warmer flavor or a dash of cayenne for a little kick! In comparison to regular roasted potatoes, these sweet potato cubes offer a healthier, more flavorful alternative. They’re packed with vitamins and fiber, and the natural sweetness makes them a satisfying treat. Ready to ditch the boring side dishes and embrace the deliciousness of these crispy sweet potato cubes? Try making them at home today!
What to Serve Crispy Sweet Potato Cubes With:
Crispy sweet potato cubes are incredibly versatile and pair well with a variety of dishes. Here are a few ideas to elevate your meal:
- Grilled Chicken or Salmon: The sweetness of the potatoes complements the savory flavors of grilled meats.
- Black Bean Burgers: A vegetarian option that pairs perfectly with the sweetness and spice of the potatoes.
- Roasted Vegetables: Create a colorful and healthy meal by serving the sweet potato cubes with other roasted vegetables like broccoli, Brussels sprouts, or bell peppers.
- Salads: Add the roasted sweet potato cubes to a salad for a boost of flavor and texture. They work especially well with salads that include greens, grains, and a vinaigrette dressing.
- Dipping Sauces: Offer a variety of dipping sauces, such as sriracha mayo, Greek yogurt with herbs, or a honey-mustard dressing.
Top Tips for Perfecting Crispy Sweet Potato Cubes:
- Don’t overcrowd the pan: Make sure to spread the sweet potato cubes in a single layer on the baking sheet. Overcrowding will cause the potatoes to steam instead of roast, resulting in a soggy texture.
- Flip halfway through: Flipping the sweet potato cubes halfway through roasting ensures even browning and crisping on all sides.
- Adjust cooking time: Depending on your oven and the size of the sweet potato cubes, the cooking time may vary. Keep an eye on them and adjust the time as needed.
- Experiment with seasonings: Feel free to customize the seasonings to your taste. Add a pinch of cinnamon, cayenne pepper, or dried rosemary for extra flavor.
- Avoid over-mixing: Over mixing can break down the potato, causing the starch to come out and the ingredient can become gluey, so make sure you mix it slow to allow it to coat properly
5 Facts About Crispy Sweet Potato Cubes:
- Sweet potatoes are packed with vitamin A, an essential nutrient for healthy vision and immune function.
- Roasting sweet potatoes enhances their natural sweetness, making them feel like a treat while being surprisingly healthy.
- Sweet potatoes are a great source of fiber, helping to promote digestive health and keep you feeling full.
- The vibrant orange color of sweet potatoes comes from beta-carotene, an antioxidant that helps protect against cell damage.
- This recipe is naturally gluten-free and vegan-friendly, making it a great option for people with dietary restrictions.
Storing and Reheating Tips:
- Storing: Leftover crispy sweet potato cubes can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Make sure to allow them to cool completely before storing to prevent them from becoming soggy.
- Reheating: The best way to reheat crispy sweet potato cubes is in the oven or an air fryer to help them regain their crispiness. Preheat your oven or air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and reheat for 5-10 minutes, or until heated through and crispy. You can also microwave them, but they may not be as crispy.
- Freezing: To freeze leftovers, spread the roasted sweet potato cubes in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze for 1-2 hours, or until solid. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. Frozen crispy sweet potato cubes can be stored for up to 2-3 months. To reheat, bake them directly from frozen at 375°F (190°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through and crispy.
Final Thoughts:
These crispy sweet potato cubes are a must-try recipe that’s both healthy and delicious. Their versatility and easy preparation make them a perfect addition to any meal. So, go ahead, give this recipe a try and elevate your side dish game. You won’t be disappointed!
try also : Easy Pumpkin Dump Cake Recipe and find more in pinterest
Crispy Sweet Potato Cubes FAQs:
- Can I use different types of sweet potatoes? Yes, you can use different varieties of sweet potatoes, such as garnet, jewel, or Japanese sweet potatoes. The cooking time may vary slightly depending on the type of sweet potato.
- Can I use different types of oil? Yes, you can use other types of oil, such as avocado oil or coconut oil, depending on your preference.
- Can I add other seasonings? Absolutely! Feel free to customize the seasonings to your taste preferences. Cinnamon, cayenne pepper, dried herbs, or chili powder are great additions.
- Why are my sweet potato cubes not crispy? If your sweet potato cubes are not crispy, it could be due to overcrowding the pan, not using enough oil, or not preheating the oven properly. Make sure to follow the tips in the recipe for best results.
- Can I make these ahead of time? You can prepare the sweet potato cubes ahead of time by peeling and cubing them, then storing them in the refrigerator in a bowl of water to prevent browning. When you’re ready to roast them, drain the water, pat the sweet potato cubes dry, and follow the recipe as directed.