Roasted Sweet Potatoes – Easy, Crispy & Delicious

Some days, all I want is something warm and golden straight from the oven. The kind of food that fills the kitchen with a cozy smell and promises comfort with every bite. That’s exactly what these roasted sweet potatoes bring to the table — tender centers, crisp edges, and flavors that make lunch feel like a little moment of joy.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Roasted sweet potatoes are easy, reliable, and full of natural sweetness. They cook up beautifully with minimal effort and go with just about anything.

You can make them two ways:

• A plain version with coconut oil and brown sugar
• A seasoned version with smoky, savory spices

No matter which one you go with, you’ll get crispy edges, soft centers, and sweet-salty flavors that make this dish irresistible. Plus, it’s quick enough for lunch but tasty enough to serve at a gathering.

Ingredients

For Plain Roasted Sweet Potatoes:

• 2 pounds sweet potatoes (about 3 large), peeled and cut into ½-inch cubes
• 2 tablespoons melted coconut oil
• ¾ teaspoon fine sea salt (use less if using table salt)
• 1 tablespoon light brown sugar, packed

For Seasoned Roasted Sweet Potatoes:

• 2 pounds sweet potatoes (about 3 large), peeled and cut into ½-inch cubes
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• ¾ teaspoon fine sea salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon ground chili powder
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon ground cumin
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder

Optional Add-ins:

• Add ¼ to ½ teaspoon cayenne for heat
• Use chipotle chili powder or smoked paprika for a smoky twist

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (218°C).
2. Peel and cube your sweet potatoes into even ½-inch pieces. Try to keep the size consistent so they cook evenly.
3. Spread the sweet potatoes onto a large baking sheet (15″ x 21″ is ideal to avoid crowding).
4. Add oil and seasonings:
   • For the plain version: drizzle with coconut oil, sprinkle with salt and brown sugar.
   • For the seasoned version: toss with olive oil, spices, and salt.
5. Toss well to coat all the pieces evenly. Use your hands or a spatula.
6. Arrange the potatoes in a single layer, leaving space between pieces for proper roasting.
7. Roast for 27–35 minutes, flipping every 10–15 minutes for even caramelization and crisp edges.
8. Check doneness at 27 minutes. You’re looking for browned edges and a soft inside when pierced with a fork.

The Best Sweet Potatoes for Roasting

Go for Red Garnet or Jewel varieties. They’re naturally sweet with vibrant orange flesh that caramelizes beautifully.

Avoid white or yellow-fleshed types — they’re starchier and not as flavorful when roasted.

Choose sweet potatoes that feel firm and heavy with smooth skin.

How To Cut Sweet Potatoes for Roasting

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First, peel them. The peel doesn’t crisp up well in the oven and removing it gives a cleaner bite.

Then cut into ½-inch cubes:

• Slice into thick rounds
• Cut each round into strips
• Dice into small, even cubes

Even cuts help the potatoes roast at the same rate, so you don’t end up with some burnt and others underdone.

How To Roast Sweet Potatoes

Roasting sweet potatoes at a high temperature (425°F) gives you that magical combo of crispy edges and soft centers.

Spread them out — don’t let them pile up. Crowded potatoes steam instead of roast, and that makes them soft and soggy.

Flip them halfway through so all sides get golden and crispy.

Variations: Plain vs. Seasoned Roasted Sweet Potatoes

The plain version is simple, slightly sweet, and incredibly kid-friendly.
The seasoned version brings a smoky, savory kick that’s great with grain bowls, tacos, or even eggs.

Want to switch it up? Add a pinch of cayenne for heat or smoked paprika for that char-grilled depth of flavor.

Tips for Perfect Roasted Sweet Potatoes

• Use a large sheet pan so the cubes have space to crisp, not steam.
• Don’t boil before roasting — it’s not needed and ruins the texture.
• Peeling is worth the extra step. It helps the seasoning stick better.
• Check them early. Ovens vary, so peek at the 27-minute mark.
• Let them cool slightly before serving. That’s when the flavor really comes through.

Storage & Reheating

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
• Reheat in the oven or air fryer to bring back that crispiness.
• Microwaving works too, but they’ll be softer.

Roasted Sweet Potatoes FAQs

Roasted Sweet Potatoes Recipe Card

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More Such Recipes

If you’re into roasted or baked veggie sides, check out these:

• Grilled Sweet Potatoes for a Smoky Side Dish
• Easy Creamy Cheesy Potato Bake
• Crispy Baked Parmesan Zucchini as a Roasted Veggie Alternative
• Air Fryer Baked Potatoes for a Quick Weeknight Side

Final Thoughts

Roasted sweet potatoes are one of the easiest ways to make lunch feel special. They’re full of color, texture, and flavor, and they go with everything from leftovers to eggs to grain bowls.

Whether you like them sweet or spiced, try this recipe and make it your own. Then come say hi and share your version with us on Facebook or Pinterest. Can’t wait to see what you make!