Are you looking for a delicious, healthy, and incredibly easy side dish or even a light meal? Look no further! These sliced baked sweet potatoes are bursting with natural sweetness and are incredibly versatile. Whether you're a seasoned home cook or just starting your culinary journey, this recipe is perfect for adding a touch of wholesome goodness to your table. It's one of those quick dinner ideas that's both satisfying and nutritious, making it a winner for busy weeknights.
Ingredients:
- 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced (about 1/4 inch thick)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika (smoked paprika adds a delicious smoky flavor)
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder (optional, but highly recommended!)
Instructions:
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Preheat & Prep: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup. This is a crucial step for achieving perfectly baked sweet potatoes.
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Toss & Season: In a large bowl, toss the sliced sweet potatoes with olive oil, salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder. Make sure all the slices are evenly coated with the oil and seasonings. This step ensures even cooking and maximizes flavor.
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Arrange & Bake: Arrange the seasoned sweet potato slices in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Avoid overcrowding; this will help them crisp up nicely.
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Bake to Perfection: Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes are tender and slightly caramelized around the edges. Flip them halfway through for even browning. Keep an eye on them – ovens vary!
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Serve & Enjoy: Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving. These delicious sweet potato slices are amazing as a side dish with any protein, but they also make a wonderful light meal on their own.
Cooking Tips for the Best Baked Sweet Potatoes:
- Thinly Sliced is Key: Thinner slices cook more evenly and quickly. Aim for about ¼ inch thickness.
- Don't Overcrowd the Pan: Overcrowding prevents proper air circulation and leads to steaming instead of baking, resulting in soggy sweet potatoes.
- Experiment with Spices: Feel free to get creative with seasonings! Try adding cinnamon, nutmeg, chili powder, or even a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.
- Add Herbs: Fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme complement the sweet potatoes beautifully.
Delicious Variations:
- Maple-Glazed: Drizzle with maple syrup during the last 5 minutes of baking for a sweet and savory treat. This is a fantastic variation for a more indulgent side.
- Roasted Garlic: Add a few cloves of roasted garlic to the bowl with the sweet potatoes for an extra layer of flavor. The roasted garlic adds a subtle sweetness and depth.
- Honey-Mustard Glaze: Whisk together a tablespoon of honey and a teaspoon of Dijon mustard and brush over the sweet potatoes during the last 5 minutes of baking.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This information is based on two large sweet potatoes and is approximate and will vary depending on the size of the sweet potatoes and the amount of oil used.
- Calories: Approximately 150-200
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 30-40g
- Fiber: Approximately 5-7g
- Vitamin A: Excellent source
- Potassium: Good source
These easy recipes for baked sweet potatoes are a fantastic addition to any meal. They are incredibly healthy, full of flavor, and surprisingly simple to make. Enjoy!