If you're looking for a way to jazz up your sweet potato game, these Savory Herb-Crusted Baked Sweet Potatoes are the answer. They're crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and packed with aromatic herbs that make each bite a delight.
The star of the show is, of course, the humble sweet potatoes. Their natural sweetness pairs beautifully with savory herbs. We use olive oil to help the herbs adhere and to crisp up the skins. The trio of dried rosemary, thyme, and oregano adds a robust, earthy flavor. Garlic powder and onion powder bring a punchy aromatic base. A hint of smoked paprika delivers a subtle smoky depth, while sea salt and black pepper round out the seasoning. Lastly, sprinkling nutritional yeast at the end offers a delightful cheesy finish without the dairy.
These savory sweet potatoes make a fantastic side dish for grilled or roasted meats. They’re also great with a fresh, vibrant salad or alongside a hearty soup. For a complete vegan meal, pair them with a protein-rich quinoa salad.
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures that once the sweet potatoes go in, they bake evenly and develop that perfect crust. While the oven is heating up, grab your sweet potatoes and give them a good wash and scrub. This step is crucial because we’re leaving the skins on, which are not only nutritious but also add to the texture. Pat them dry with a towel to remove excess moisture.
Next, prepare your herb mixture. In a small bowl, combine olive oil, rosemary, thyme, oregano, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, sea salt, and black pepper. Stir until you have a lovely, fragrant paste. Take each sweet potato and rub the mixture all over, making sure they’re well-coated. This is where the magic happens, as the oil helps the herbs stick to the potatoes.
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and place your coated sweet potatoes on the sheet. Pop them in the preheated oven and let them bake for 45–50 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when they’re tender on the inside and have a crispy, herbaceous crust.
Once you pull them out of the oven, let them cool slightly. This makes them easier to handle and allows the flavors to settle. Before serving, sprinkle a little nutritional yeast on top for that extra cheesy kick.
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