Oven Roasted Sweet Potatoes With Herbs

Name: Oven Roasted Sweet Potatoes With Herbs
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon dried rosemary; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; Salt and pepper, to taste

Highlighted under: Healthy Home Meals

I absolutely love how simple and flavorful these Oven Roasted Sweet Potatoes with Herbs are! This dish is not only a go-to side for dinner, but it also brings a touch of elegance to any meal. The combination of fresh herbs and the natural sweetness of the potatoes creates a delicious balance. With just a handful of ingredients and a little time in the oven, you can easily whip this up. Trust me, it’s a crowd-pleaser that pairs well with almost anything!

Created by

Harriet Mason

Last updated on 2026-02-01T15:33:36.003Z

When I first tried roasting sweet potatoes, I couldn't believe how the flavors enhanced through the simple method of baking. The caramelization that occurs during roasting brings out a delightful sweetness that pairs perfectly with the herbs. The smell that fills your kitchen is just the cherry on top!

Over the years, I’ve experimented with various herbs, but this combination of rosemary and thyme truly elevates the dish. Make sure to season the potatoes generously and give them enough space on the baking sheet for optimal caramelization. Trust me, the extra effort is worth it!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Natural sweetness of the sweet potatoes enhanced with aromatic herbs
Simple preparation that’s perfect for any home cook
Versatile as a side dish or a healthy snack

Selecting the Right Sweet Potatoes

When it comes to sweet potatoes, choosing the right variety can dramatically influence the flavor and texture of your dish. For this recipe, opt for large, firm sweet potatoes; they should be free from any blemishes or soft spots. The most popular types include orange-fleshed varieties like Beauregard or Garnet, which offer a rich sweetness and creamy texture when roasted. If you're looking for a slightly nuttier flavor, consider using lighter-fleshed varieties, but be sure to adjust roasting time as needed.

The preparation of the sweet potatoes is also key to achieving optimal results. Peeling the sweet potatoes before dicing them will allow the herbs and seasoning to penetrate their flesh better, enhancing the overall flavor. Dice them into uniform pieces, approximately 1-inch cubes, to ensure even roasting. Consistency in size helps guide cooking times and allows for that golden, caramelized exterior while keeping the inside soft and tender.

The Role of Herbs

The herbs in this recipe play a crucial role in elevating the natural sweetness of the sweet potatoes. Dried rosemary and thyme are excellent choices here, as they complement the earthy flavor profile of the potatoes. Rosemary offers a robust, pine-like aroma, while thyme contributes a subtle depth that balances the dish. If you want to customize, fresh herbs can be used as well; however, you would want to triple the amount since fresh herbs are less concentrated than their dried counterparts.

Another tip is to experiment with additional seasonings or herbs to personalize your dish further. A sprinkle of garlic powder or paprika could introduce a lovely warmth, while a dash of cayenne pepper would add a hint of heat. Adjust these to your taste but remember that too many strong flavors can overpower the delicate sweetness of the sweet potatoes.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to get started with your Oven Roasted Sweet Potatoes with Herbs:

Ingredients

2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon dried rosemary
1 teaspoon dried thyme
Salt and pepper, to taste

Make sure to wash your sweet potatoes thoroughly before peeling and dicing them for the recipe.

Instructions

Follow these steps for perfectly roasted sweet potatoes:

Prepare the Potatoes

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). In a large bowl, toss the diced sweet potatoes with olive oil, dried rosemary, dried thyme, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.

Roast

Spread the sweet potatoes out in a single layer on a baking sheet. Bake for 25-30 minutes, stirring halfway through, until they are tender and lightly caramelized.

Serve

Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes before serving. They are delicious on their own or as a side to any main dish.

Enjoy your flavorful dish warm, or store leftovers in the refrigerator for a few days.

Pro Tips

For an additional flavor boost, try mixing in some fresh chopped herbs right before serving!

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

One of the advantages of Oven Roasted Sweet Potatoes is that they can be prepared ahead of time. You can peel and dice the sweet potatoes up to 24 hours in advance. Store the prepared potatoes in a bowl of water in the refrigerator to keep them fresh—a fantastic trick to prevent browning. When you're ready to cook, simply drain and dry them before tossing with olive oil and herbs.

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days. To reheat, spread them out on a baking sheet and pop them back into a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for around 10-15 minutes until warmed through. This method helps to restore some of their crispness and prevents them from becoming mushy.

Serving Suggestions

These roasted sweet potatoes are a versatile side dish that can complement numerous main courses. They pair exceptionally well with herbal grilled chicken or savory roast beef, adding a slight sweetness that cuts through the richness of the meat. For a vegetarian option, serve them alongside a quinoa salad or a chickpea stew.

Additionally, think about incorporating them into a buddha bowl. Layer them with grains, leafy greens, and a protein of your choice, drizzling with tahini or a yogurt sauce for a nourishing meal. If you're feeling adventurous, try tossing the roasted cubes into a breakfast scramble with eggs and spinach for a flavorful start to your day.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of potatoes?

Yes, while sweet potatoes work best for this recipe, you can also use regular potatoes for a different flavor.

→ What herbs can I substitute if I don't have rosemary or thyme?

Feel free to experiment with herbs like oregano, sage, or parsley for a unique twist!

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftover roasted sweet potatoes in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-5 days.

→ Can I make this recipe vegan?

This recipe is already vegan-friendly since it only uses plant-based ingredients.