Are you looking for a quick, healthy, and incredibly delicious side dish or even a light meal? Look no further! This recipe for baked sweet potatoes with brown sugar and butter is the perfect answer. It's unbelievably easy to make, requiring minimal ingredients and effort, yet delivers a burst of sweet and savory flavor that will tantalize your taste buds. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, family gatherings, or simply satisfying a craving for something comforting and wholesome. Let's dive into this simple yet satisfying recipe!
Ingredients:
- 2 large sweet potatoes, scrubbed and pricked several times with a fork
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
- 2 tablespoons packed light brown sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional, but highly recommended!)
- Pinch of salt
Instructions:
Step 1: Preparing the Sweet Potatoes
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Scrub the sweet potatoes thoroughly under cold water. Using a fork, prick several holes all over each potato. This prevents them from exploding in the oven!
Step 2: Baking the Sweet Potatoes
Place the prepared sweet potatoes directly on the oven rack. Bake for 45-60 minutes, or until a fork easily pierces the center. The cooking time will depend on the size of your sweet potatoes; larger ones will require a longer baking time.
Step 3: Adding the Sweet and Savory Topping
While the sweet potatoes are still hot from the oven, carefully cut them in half lengthwise. Using a spoon, gently scoop out a small amount of the flesh from the center of each half, creating a little well. In a small bowl, combine the softened butter, brown sugar, cinnamon (if using), and salt. Mix well until it forms a smooth paste.
Step 4: The Finishing Touch
Spoon the brown sugar butter mixture evenly over the sweet potato halves, filling the little wells you created. You can also spread some of the mixture on top of the potatoes.
Tips for Sweet Potato Perfection:
- Choosing the Right Sweet Potatoes: Select sweet potatoes that are firm and free from bruises or soft spots.
- Don't Overbake: Overbaking can result in dry, hard sweet potatoes. Check for doneness with a fork frequently towards the end of the baking time.
- Get Creative with Toppings: Feel free to experiment with different toppings! Pecans, walnuts, marshmallows, or a drizzle of maple syrup would all be delicious additions.
- Make it a Meal: Top your baked sweet potatoes with chili, black beans, grilled chicken, or your favorite savory ingredients to create a complete and satisfying meal.
Variations:
- Spicy Sweet Potatoes: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the brown sugar butter mixture for a spicy kick.
- Herby Sweet Potatoes: Incorporate fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme into the brown sugar butter mixture for an aromatic twist.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
Calories: Approximately 250-300 Fat: 10-15g Carbohydrates: 40-50g Fiber: 5-7g Protein: 3-5g
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used and portion sizes. This easy and healthy recipe is perfect as a delicious side dish or a light meal, offering a satisfying and flavorful experience. Enjoy!