Sweet potatoes are like the unsung heroes of the vegetable world—humble yet bursting with potential. I remember the first time I tried garlic butter roasted sweet potatoes, it was like a flavor explosion; who knew something so simple could feel like a warm hug? This recipe combines the earthy sweetness of the potatoes with the savory kick of garlic and butter, creating a dish that’s both comforting and a little fancy.
Steps
- Begin by setting your oven to 425°F to preheat.
- Remove the outer layers of a garlic head and trim the top of the cloves by ¼ inch. Drizzle it with 1 teaspoon of oil, wrap it in foil, and place it on a baking sheet. Roast the garlic for 10 minutes.
- While the garlic is roasting, mix the sweet potato cubes with the remaining tablespoon of oil, salt, and smoked paprika in a bowl. After the garlic has roasted for 10 minutes, add the sweet potatoes to the baking sheet in a single layer and roast for an additional 20 minutes, stirring once halfway through.
- Once the garlic has cooled enough to handle, squeeze the cloves out of their skins into a bowl with melted butter and herbs. Mash them together with a fork until mixed but still slightly chunky.
- Pour the garlic butter over the roasted sweet potatoes, toss to coat evenly, and season with ground pepper to taste.
Ingredients
- 1 small head of garlic
- 1 teaspoon plus 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil, divided
- 1½ pounds sweet potatoes, scrubbed and cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh herbs, such as parsley or thyme
- Ground black pepper to taste
Nutritional Values
Calories: 906 | Total Fat: 30g | Saturated Fat: 12g | Cholesterol: 30mg | Sodium: 1644mg | Total Carbohydrate: 150g | Dietary Fiber: 24g | Total Sugars: 30g | Protein: 12g | Vitamin A: 4992µg | Vitamin C: 30mg | Calcium: 282mg | Iron: 6mg | Potassium: 2526mg | Vitamin D: 0µg | Vitamin E: 6mg | Folate: 84µg | Vitamin K: 90µg | Magnesium: 186mg | Zinc: N/A | Vitamin B12: 0µg | Omega 3: 0g
FAQ
- Can I use different herbs in this recipe?
- Absolutely! While the recipe suggests using parsley or thyme, you can experiment with other herbs like rosemary, sage, or even oregano to suit your personal taste preferences.
- Is it necessary to roast the garlic separately before adding it to the sweet potatoes?
- Yes, roasting the garlic separately helps to mellow its flavor and bring out its natural sweetness, creating a delicious paste that enhances the overall dish when combined with the sweet potatoes.
- Can I use a different type of oil instead of extra-virgin olive oil?
- Yes, you can substitute extra-virgin olive oil with other oils such as avocado oil or canola oil, but keep in mind that it might slightly alter the flavor of the dish.
- How do I know when the sweet potatoes are done roasting?
- The sweet potatoes are ready when they are tender and have a golden-brown color. This typically takes about 20 minutes, but you can check by piercing them with a fork to ensure they are soft.
- What can I serve with these roasted garlic-butter sweet potatoes?
- These sweet potatoes make a versatile side dish and pair well with a variety of main courses, including roasted chicken, grilled steak, or fish. They also complement vegetarian dishes such as a hearty salad or mixed vegetable medley.
Tips
- To enhance the sweetness and reduce the sharpness of the garlic, roast a whole head of garlic until it becomes a caramelized paste, which will blend seamlessly with melted butter for a flavorful addition to the sweet potatoes.
- Ensure your sweet potatoes are evenly coated with olive oil, salt, and smoked paprika before roasting, as this will help them cook evenly and develop a deliciously crispy exterior.
- For an extra burst of flavor, consider adding fresh herbs such as rosemary or thyme to the garlic-butter mixture before tossing with the roasted sweet potatoes.
- Stir the sweet potatoes midway through roasting to ensure they cook evenly and develop a uniform golden-brown color.
Equipment
- Butter Sweet Potatoes, here is a list of main equipment that you might not normally have at home and may need to buy on Amazon:
- Large rimmed baking sheet
- Aluminum foil