Oven Roasted Sweet Potato Cubes

Name: Roasted Sweet Potatoes Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Ingredients: 2 pounds sweet potatoes ((Red Garnet or Jewel yams)); 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil or avocado oil; 1 tablespoon pure maple syrup ((optional)); 3/4 tsp sea salt or kosher salt (OR ½ tsp table salt); 1/2 tsp EACH chili powder, garlic powder, paprika, cinnamon; 1/4 teaspoon pepper

You’ll want to inhale these caramelized, tender, roasted sweet potatoes daily! They’re prepped in less than 15 minutes (plus roasting) with pantry-friendly spices and ZERO dishes to wash! Follow the recipe tips, tricks, and techniques to elevate this nutritious, simple, flavor-bursting crowd-pleaser.

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top view of roasted sweet potatoes showing the caramelized edges

It doesn’t get much better than Oven Roasted Sweet Potatoes!

They’re made with budget-friendly, pantry-friendly ingredients but taste like a million bucks. Potatoes are always in season and will last weeks in a cool, dark place, so you can make this recipe any time or stock up on potatoes to make multiple times!
This recipe is so easy, it‘s guaranteed to become your go-to favorite side dish. The potatoes are prepped in less than 15 minutes, then roast while you prep the rest of your meal.
Perfectly textured every time, this technique delivers oven roasted sweet potatoes with a crispy caramelized exterior and a soft, creamy interior.
The seasoned roasted sweet potatoes are craveable without masking their natural sweetness or flavor. They’re tossed with maple syrup, garlic, paprika, chili powder, salt, pepper, and cinnamon for a side everyone will eat off the pan!
This recipe is vegan and gluten-free, which means you can serve them to anyone, anywhere! They’re also ideal for entertaining because they still taste amazing at room temperature, so they keep and/or transport perfectly if need be.
They make everything better! Add them to salads, bowls, tacos, wraps, etc.
You can keep them simple or choose from the flavor variations provided. I’ve included several flavor combinations under “variations,” such as Maple Cinnamon, Spicy Chipotle, Garlic Parmesan, or make your own!

roasted sweet potato recipe seasoned with salt, pepper, paprika and cinnamon

What you’ll need for Roasted Sweet Potato Cubes:

This recipe is made with sweet potatoes, olive oil, maple syrup, and spices. Let’s take a closer look at each (measurements in the printable recipe card at the bottom of the post):

Sweet potatoes: You’ll need two pounds, usually two medium sweet potatoes. Below are tips for selecting the best.
Olive oil: For more flavor, use extra virgin olive oil. You may also use any of your favorite baking oils, such as avocado oil or grape seed oil.
Maple syrup: Use pure maple syrup, not imitation pancake syrup. This is optional but creates deeper caramelization and sweetness.
Spices: The roasted sweet potatoes are seasoned with salt, pepper, chili powder, garlic powder, paprika and cinnamon.

up close of roasted sweet potato recipe showing the crispy, caramelized edges

How to pick a good sweet potato

Choose Orange or Red Skinned Sweet Potatoes. These sweet potatoes are often labeled as yams in the United States. Red Garnet or Jewel Yams are the best choice for roasted sweet potatoes because they have a naturally sweet flavor and creamy texture when cooked. Their deep orange flesh caramelizes beautifully during roasting, enhancing their sweetness and creating a deliciously tender inside with a slightly crispy exterior. Additionally, garnet yams are nutrient-rich, offering a good source of vitamins A and C, making them both a tasty and healthy option for various dishes.
Avoid Light or Purple Sweet Potatoes. These sweet potatoes are drier and starchier, and will be less creamy, flavorful, and don’t caramelize well.
Appearance: Look for firm, smooth sweet potatoes without bruises or soft spots. Avoid those with wrinkled skin or signs of sprouting.
Shape: Choose sweet potatoes that are evenly shaped because they are easier to peel and chop into uniform cubes.
Color: The skin should be intact and be vibrant orange or red.

How to cut a sweet potato for roasting

Step 1: Peel the Sweet Potatoes. While you can eat the peels, peeling sweet potatoes is recommended because the skin can be tough, chewy, bitter, and difficult to digest for sensitive stomachs. However, sweet potato skins are nutritious and contain fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants, so leaving the skin on can add nutritional value and flavor to rustic dishes.
Step 2: Cut into rounds. If your sweet potato is wobbly, cut a thin sliver off the bottom to stabilize it. Next, cut the sweet potato into equal 1/2-inch rounds.
Step 3: Chop into pieces. Lay the rounds flat and chop into 1/2-inch pieces. Smaller rounds will be cut in half lengthwise and then cut in the other direction 1-2 more times. Larger rounds will be cut in half lengthwise, then cut in the other direction 2-3 more times depending on the size.

How to Roast Sweet Potatoes

Let’s take a closer look at how to roast sweet potatoes with step-by-step photos (full recipe in the printable recipe card at the bottom of the post):

Step 1: Cut the Sweet Potatoes. Peel and cut the potatoes into 1/2-inch cubes.

how to roast sweet potatoes by cutting the potatoes into 1/2-inch cubes

Step 2: Add Spices. Transfer the cubes to a large baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Add the olive oil, maple syrup, and spices. Toss to evenly combine.

how to roast sweet potatoes by tossing the potatoes in olive oil and spices

Step 3: Space Apart. Line the potatoes in a single layer so they aren’t touching each other.

how to roast sweet potatoes by spacing apart on a baking sheet so they aren't touching

Step 4: Cook. Roast at 425°F, tossing the sweet potatoes at 15 minutes.

How long to roast sweet potatoes

The potatoes are roasted at a high temperature of 425 degrees, so they’ll be finished roasting in about 25 to 35 minutes. Several factors affect the roasting time, such as freshness. Older, drier sweet potatoes will cook more quickly and dry out more easily, while fresher ones retain more moisture. Additionally, the type of oil or seasoning you use can influence how quickly they roast.

how to roast sweet potatoes by roasting until tender on the inside and crispy on the edges

Tips for making Cubed Sweet Potatoes in Oven

Use fresh Sweet Potatoes. Set yourself up for success by using fresh sweet potatoes—not ones hanging out in your fridge for a long time. Fresh potatoes are moister, therefore creamier, and less likely to dry out while the edges get crispy.
Dry the potatoes thoroughly after washing or they will steam instead of caramelize. The drier the potatoes, the crispier they will get!
Cut the potatoes uniformly. You can cut the potatoes larger or smaller, as long as you aim for similar sized cubes so they roast evenly. That being said—don’t worry about perfect cubes—the edges will be irregular. Smaller cubes will take less time to roast and larger cubes will take longer.
Use a large sheet pan. Use a 15×21 inch sheet pan and NOT a half-sheet pan. A large pan is required so the potatoes have plenty of breathing room to caramelize. If the potatoes are crowded, they will steam, affecting the taste and texture.
Spread the potatoes in an even layer without them touching. This ensures the potatoes will cook evenly and roast rather than steam. Use two half sheets if you don’t have a large baking sheet.
Use foil or parchment for easy cleanup. Just toss after roasting!
Toss the ingredients together on the baking sheet. This saves an extra dish, but you can also toss all the ingredients together in a large bowl.
Preheat the Oven. Before adding the sweet potatoes, ensure your oven is fully preheated to 425°F to create a crispy exterior.
Flip During Cooking. Halfway through the roasting time, flip the pieces for even caramelization and roasting.

How to stop roast sweet potatoes from going soggy?

To prevent roasted sweet potatoes from becoming soggy, consider these tips:

1. Use Enough Oil. Toss the sweet potatoes with sufficient oil (olive oil or another cooking oil) before roasting. This creates a barrier that helps prevent sogginess and promotes crispiness.
2. Avoid Overcrowding. Spread the sweet potatoes in a single layer on the baking sheet, leaving space between each piece. Overcrowding can trap steam, leading to sogginess.
3. Flip During Cooking. Halfway through roasting, flip the sweet potatoes to ensure even cooking and browning.

roasted sweet potato cubes on a baking sheet showing how caramelized they are

How to MAke oven roasted sweet potatoes Ahead

You can roast the sweet potatoes, store them, reheat them, or prep them for roasting. To prep:

1. Soak the Potatoes: The cubed sweet potatoes must be soaked in water to prevent oxidation. They can be soaked at room temperature for 30 minutes or up to 24 hours in the refrigerator. Soaking the sweet potatoes helps remove excess starch, which means they can crisp up better.
2. Rinse: Rinse the potatoes to help wash away any remaining starch. This step further promotes a crispier exterior during cooking.
3. Dry: Thoroughly dry the sweet potato cubes. Excess moisture can hinder crispiness, so pat them dry with a kitchen towel or let them air dry for a bit.

Roasted Sweet Potato variations

Follow the roasting technique in the recipe card, but experiment with different flavor combinations to suit your taste preferences and complement various meals. Here are a few ideas for roasting sweet potatoes. For all variations, also season with salt. Season with pepper also when chili or chipotle pepper isn’t used.

Swap Spices: Use any combination of spices to mix up the flavor profile.
Spicy Chipotle: Toss the sweet potato cubes with olive oil, chipotle powder, garlic powder, and cumin.
Garlic Parmesan: Coat the sweet potatoes with olive oil, minced garlic, grated Parmesan cheese, and Italian herbs.
Honey Dijon: Mix with a glaze of honey, Dijon mustard, and a touch of balsamic vinegar for a sweet and tangy infusion (the potatoes won’t get as crispy).
Maple Cinnamon: Toss with maple syrup, cinnamon, and a pinch of nutmeg before roasting for a sweet and warmly spiced flavor. You can also toss it with additional maple after roasting.
Curry Lime: Combine with curry powder, turmeric, lime zest, and a drizzle of olive oil for a zesty and exotic roasted flavor.
Soy Ginger: Toss in a mixture of soy sauce, fresh ginger, and toasted sesame oil before roasting for an Asian-inspired umami flavor.
Balsamic Rosemary: Roast with balsamic vinegar, fresh rosemary, and a touch of garlic for a savory and herbaceous profile.
Harissa: Spice things up by coating them with harissa, olive oil, and a sprinkle of cumin for a bold and fiery roasted flavor.
Chili Lime: Toss with chili powder, lime juice, and a hint of cayenne for a tangy, spicy roasted variation.

Lemon and Dill: Toss with olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, and fresh dill. This bright and zesty variation pairs well with fish.
Sriracha Lime: Toss the sweet potatoes with olive oil, sriracha, lime juice, and zest.
Sweet and Spicy: Combine olive oil, honey, cayenne pepper, and paprika for a sweet and spicy kick.

What to serve with Roasted Sweet Potato

Serve these roasted sweet potato cubes with steak, chicken, seafood, and more! They pair well with any number of dishes, such as:

Bowls: I LOVE to add roasted sweet potatoes to Mediterranean Bowls, Burrito Bowls, Cajun Chicken Bowls, etc.
Chicken: Cajun Chicken, Best Marinated Chicken, Oven Fried Chicken, Chipotle Chicken, Lemon Basil Chicken
Pork: Grilled Pork Chops, Brown Sugar Pork Chops, Pork Loin Roast, Baked Pork Tenderloin, Crockpot Pork Loin
Beef: Marinated Flank Steak, London Broil, New York Strip Steak, Grilled Cajun Sirloin Steak, Spice Rubbed Steaks, Bacon-Wrapped Filet Mignon
Sandwiches and Burgers: French Dip Sandwiches, Reuben Sandwiches, Philly Cheesesteak Sandwiches, Best Burgers, BBQ Burgers

How to store Oven Roasted Sweet Potato Cubes

Store roasted sweet potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The potatoes won’t be as crispy when reheated unless you use an air fryer.

HOW TO freeze roasted sweet potatoes recipe

1. Flash Freeze. Once cooled, spread the roasted sweet potato cubes in a single layer on a clean baking sheet. Ensure they are not touching to prevent sticking. Place the baking sheet in the freezer for about 2 hours or until the sweet potato cubes are solid.
2. Pack for Freezing. Transfer the frozen sweet potato cubes to airtight freezer bags or containers. Remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn.
3. Store. Write the date on the bags or containers to keep track of storage time and freeze for up to 6 months.

How to reheat sweet potatoes

Oven: Bake at 375°F for about 15–20 minutes if thawed or 25–30 minutes if frozen, or until heated through and slightly crispy on the outside. Check periodically to avoid overcooking.

Microwave: Cover with a microwave-safe lid or a damp paper towel to help retain moisture. Microwave on medium power for 1–2 minutes if thawed or 3–5 minutes if frozen, checking every 30 seconds to ensure they don’t overheat.

Air Fryer: Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Place the sweet potatoes in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Air fry for 8–10 minutes if thawed or 12–15 minutes if frozen, flipping halfway through.

Roasted Sweet Potatoes Recipe FAQs

Why are my roasted sweet potatoes not crispy?

Roasted sweet potatoes may not be getting crispy due to a few common reasons:
1. Overcrowding the Pan: If the pieces are too close together, they steam instead of roast. Use a large baking sheet and space them out.
2. Too Much Oil: While some oil helps them crisp, too much can make them soggy. Lightly coat them.
3. Low Oven Temperature: Roast at a high temperature (around 425°F/220°C) to achieve a crispy texture.
4. Moisture: Pat the sweet potatoes dry after washing to remove excess moisture.

Are roasted sweet potatoes healthy?

Roasted sweet potatoes are a nutritious option packed with essential vitamins and minerals. They are particularly rich in vitamin A, which supports eye health, and dietary fiber, promoting digestive health. Their natural sweetness comes from complex carbohydrates, providing sustained energy without spiking blood sugar levels. When prepared with minimal oil and healthy seasonings, roasted sweet potatoes can be a flavorful and wholesome addition to any meal. Overall, they offer numerous health benefits while being delicious and versatile.

Do sweet potatoes get softer the longer you cook them?

Yes, sweet potatoes will become softer as they are cooked longer. The cooking process breaks down their starches, resulting in a tender texture. However, avoiding overcooking is important, as this can lead to mushiness. Methods like roasting or baking allow for a nice softness while retaining some structure. To check if they’re done, simply poke them with a fork. For more tips on cooking sweet potatoes, visit this resource.

What are the health benefits of roasted sweet potatoes?

Roasted sweet potatoes are rich in vitamins A and C, fiber, and antioxidants, which support eye health, boost the immune system, and aid digestion.

How do I get my roasted sweet potatoes crispy?

To achieve crispy sweet potatoes, cut them into uniform pieces, ensure they’re not overcrowded on the baking sheet, and roast them at a high temperature (around 425°F/220°C).

Can I make roasted sweet potatoes ahead of time?

Yes, you can roast sweet potatoes ahead of time. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-5 days and reheat before serving.

What spices pair well with roasted sweet potatoes?

Popular spices include cinnamon, paprika, garlic powder, and cumin, which enhance their natural sweetness and flavor.

How long should I roast sweet potatoes?

Roast sweet potatoes for about 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are tender and caramelized.

Should I boil sweet potatoes before roasting?

No, boiling sweet potatoes before roasting can cause them to absorb excess water, making it more challenging to crisp up in the oven. It also creates unnecessary work, time, and dishes! Roasting raw sweet potatoes allows the natural sugars to caramelize on the outside, creating a more flavorful, crispy exterior. Boiling can also dilute the flavor, whereas roasting directly enhances their natural sweetness and ensures a better contrast between the crispy edges and the soft interior.

Do you have to peel sweet potatoes before roasting?

I highly recommend peeling sweet potatoes before roasting, although it comes down to personal preference. Peeled sweet potatoes can roast more evenly and develop a crispier texture outside. The skin can sometimes be tough, or chewy when roasted, so removing it allows the sweet potatoes to caramelize better and ensures a smoother, more tender bite.

a spoonful of roasted sweet potatoes recipe

Looking for more Roasted Vegetable Recipes?

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Roasted Cajun Potatoes
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Tools Used in This Recipe

Baking Sheet 21 x 15 inches

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Servings: servings (as a side)

Prep Time: 15

Cook Time: 35

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Ingredients

2 pounds sweet potatoes (Red Garnet or Jewel yams)
2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil or avocado oil
1 tablespoon pure maple syrup (optional)
3/4 tsp sea salt or kosher salt OR ½ tsp table salt
1/2 tsp EACH chili powder, garlic powder, paprika, cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon pepper

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 425°F and line a LARGE 15×21 baking sheet with parchment paper (or use two half sheets).
Peel the sweet potatoes and cut into ½-inch pieces. To cut: If your sweet potato is wobbly, cut a thin sliver off the bottom to stabilize it. Next, cut the sweet potato into equal 1/2-inch rounds. Lay the rounds flat and chop into 1/2-inch pieces. Smaller rounds will be cut in half lengthwise and then cut in the other direction 1-2 more times. Larger rounds will be cut in half lengthwise, then cut in the other direction 2-3 more times depending on the size. The cubes will not be perfectly even due to the round shape.
Add the cubes to the baking sheet and toss evenly with the olive oil, maple syrup, and spices.
Line the potatoes in a single layer so they aren’t touching each other.
Roast at 425°F for 25-35 minutes, tossing the sweet potatoes at 15 minutes.