Sweet potatoes have been a staple in many households, delighting taste buds with their natural sweetness and vibrant color. But have you ever tried crispy smashed sweet potatoes? If not, you’re in for a treat! These delightful little wonders take the classic sweet potato to a whole new level. Picture this: perfectly cooked sweet potatoes, gently smashed, and then roasted to golden, crisp perfection. They’re fluffy on the inside, crispy on the outside, and bursting with flavor!
Did you know that sweet potatoes are not only delicious but also packed with nutrients? They are an excellent source of vitamins A and C, making them a healthy option for any meal. What makes this recipe even better is how easy it is to prepare! With just a handful of ingredients and a brief cooking time, you’ll have a dish that feels gourmet without all the fuss. If you’ve enjoyed other sweet potato recipes from our blog, like our Creamy Sweet Potato Mash, you’re going to love this crispy version even more. So, roll up your sleeves, and let’s get going on these crispy smashed sweet potatoes!
What Are Crispy Smashed Sweet Potatoes?
So, what’s in a name? Why “crispy smashed sweet potatoes,” you ask? Well, it’s simple and fun! The term “smashed” refers to the method of cooking, where we take our tender sweet potatoes and, quite literally, give them a little smash. It’s as if they’ve had one too many dance parties in the oven! The “crispy” part is where the magic happens; it’s all about roasting these beauties until they achieve that delightful crunch we all crave. Who doesn’t want a little texture in their life? It’s often said that “the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach,” and trust me, this dish is a guaranteed hit! With its delightful combination of flavors and textures, you’ll have everyone asking for seconds. Why not give these crispy smashed sweet potatoes a try?
Why You’ll Love Crispy Smashed Sweet Potatoes
Crispy smashed sweet potatoes are not just any side dish; they’re a delightful experience! First and foremost, the main highlight of this dish is its incredible flavor profile. With a touch of olive oil, a sprinkle of salt, and a hint of your favorite spices, these potatoes turn into a flavorful masterpiece. Plus, making them at home is cost-effective compared to dining out, allowing you to impress your loved ones without breaking the bank.
Another exciting aspect is the versatility of toppings! You can keep it simple with just a sprinkle of sea salt or dress them up with your favorite herbs and spices like garlic powder or paprika. You can even add a dollop of creamy yogurt or a drizzle of honey for a unique twist! They also pair beautifully with various main dishes, making them a star on your dinner table. If you love roasted veggies, I urge you to check out our Roasted Beet Salad as well. Ready to elevate your dinner game? Let’s dive into this recipe!
How to Make Crispy Smashed Sweet Potatoes
Quick Overview
Crispy smashed sweet potatoes are a breeze to prepare, making them a fantastic option for quick weeknight dinners or even as a crowd-pleasing side at gatherings. The best part? They come together in about 30 minutes, so you won’t be slaving away in the kitchen. With their crunchy exterior and soft interior, they’re delicious, satisfying, and they will have your taste buds dancing with joy!
Key Ingredients for Crispy Smashed Sweet Potatoes
To whip up these crispy smashed delights, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 2 large sweet potatoes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
- Optional: garlic powder, paprika, or your favorite spices
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high temperature will help achieve that coveted crispiness.
- Prepare the Sweet Potatoes: Wash the sweet potatoes thoroughly to remove any dirt. You can peel them if you’d like, but leaving the skin on adds extra texture and nutrients.
- Boil the Sweet Potatoes: Cut the sweet potatoes into rounds or cubes and place them in a pot of boiling water. Cook for about 15-20 minutes, or until they are tender and easily pierced with a fork.
- Smash Time: Drain the sweet potatoes and let them cool slightly. Use a potato masher or the back of a fork to gently smash them into flat rounds. Just enough to create some cracks without turning them into mush!
- Season: Lay the smashed sweet potatoes on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Drizzle olive oil over the tops and season generously with salt, pepper, and any additional spices you prefer.
- Roast: Pop them in the preheated oven and roast for 20-25 minutes or until they are golden brown and crispy on the edges.
- Serve: Remove from the oven, let them cool for a minute, and serve warm. Enjoy every delicious bite!
What to Serve Crispy Smashed Sweet Potatoes With
Crispy smashed sweet potatoes are a wonderfully adaptable side dish. They pair perfectly with grilled chicken, roasted veggies, or a fresh garden salad. Want to take your meal to the next level? Serve them alongside a succulent piece of herb-crusted fish, or try them with a hearty quinoa salad for a nutritious, well-rounded dinner. A refreshing glass of iced tea or lemonade could also perfectly complement this vibrant dish!
Top Tips for Perfecting Crispy Smashed Sweet Potatoes
- Choose the Right Sweet Potatoes: Look for firm sweet potatoes without any blemishes or soft spots for the best results.
- Get Them Crispy: Don’t be afraid to leave some space between the smashed potatoes on the baking sheet; overcrowding can lead to steaming rather than crisping!
- Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to switch up the spices to suit your taste. Cumin, chili powder, or even a bit of cinnamon can add great flavor variations!
- Watch the Time: Keep an eye on the potatoes while they roast; ovens can vary in temperature, and you don’t want them to burn.
Storing and Reheating Tips
If you happen to have leftovers (which is unlikely, given how delicious they are!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in a toaster oven or on a baking sheet in a regular oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to get that crispy texture back. You can also freeze them for up to a month, but they may lose some crispiness upon reheating.
Now that you’ve got all the tips and tricks, get ready to enjoy the delightful taste of crispy smashed sweet potatoes! This dish is sure to become a favorite in your home as it combines both simplicity and flavor in every bite. Happy cooking!
Crispy Smashed Sweet Potatoes
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 large sweet potatoes Look for firm sweet potatoes without blemishes.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil For drizzling on smashed potatoes.
- to taste Salt Use according to preference.
- to taste Pepper Use according to preference.
Optional Spices
- as desired garlic powder For added flavor.
- as desired paprika For added flavor.
- as desired your favorite spices Feel free to switch up as per taste.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Wash the sweet potatoes thoroughly to remove any dirt. Peeling is optional.
- Cut the sweet potatoes into rounds or cubes and boil them in a pot of water for about 15-20 minutes until tender.
- Drain the sweet potatoes and let them cool slightly. Then, gently smash them into flat rounds using a potato masher or the back of a fork.
Cooking
- Lay the smashed sweet potatoes on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Drizzle olive oil over the tops and season with salt, pepper, and any additional spices.
- Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and crispy on the edges.
- Remove from the oven, let cool for a minute, and serve warm.
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