Garlic Parmesan Sweet Potato has become my go-to side dish whenever I want something simple yet incredibly flavorful. I remember the first time I made these, the aroma of roasted garlic and savory Parmesan filled my kitchen, and my family instantly gravitated towards the oven. These garlic parmesan sweet potato wedges are a perfect balance of sweet and savory, with a delightful crispy-chewy texture that’s just addictive. They’re so easy to whip up, making them ideal for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. You’ll love how they elevate any meal! Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Garlic Parmesan Sweet Potato
You’re going to adore this simple yet spectacular side dish for so many reasons!
- The taste is absolutely incredible – a perfect harmony of sweet potato sweetness, garlicky punch, and cheesy, savory Parmesan.
- Prep time is a breeze; you can have these ready for the oven in about 15 minutes, making it a lifesaver on busy nights.
- They’re a healthier alternative to fried potatoes, packed with vitamins and fiber, making them a guilt-free indulgence.
- This sweet potato with garlic parmesan seasoning is incredibly budget-friendly, using simple ingredients you likely already have.
- It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that even picky eaters will devour, truly making it a family-friendly favorite.
- The aroma while they bake is heavenly, promising a delicious outcome every single time you make them.
- This sweet potato with garlic parmesan seasoning transforms humble sweet potatoes into something truly special.
- They’re versatile enough to be a fantastic garlic parmesan sweet potato side dish for almost any main course.
Ingredients for Garlic Parmesan Sweet Potato Wedges
Gathering your ingredients is the first step to creating these amazing garlic parmesan baked sweet potato wedges. You’ll need just a few pantry staples and fresh produce.
- 2 large sweet potatoes – about 1.5 pounds total, choose firm ones for the best texture.
- 3 tablespoons olive oil – this helps the seasonings stick and promotes crispiness.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced – fresh garlic is key for that pungent, savory flavor.
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese – use the finely grated kind for even coating and a delightful cheesy crust.
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika – adds a lovely smoky depth and a hint of color.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder – boosts the garlic flavor even more.
- ½ teaspoon salt – essential for bringing out all the flavors.
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper – for a little kick.
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional) – adds a pop of freshness and color right at the end.
How to Make Garlic Parmesan Sweet Potato Bake
Creating these irresistible garlic parmesan sweet potato wedges is incredibly straightforward. Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a fantastic garlic parmesan sweet potato side dish ready in no time!
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to a hot 425°F (220°C). This high heat is crucial for getting those perfect crispy edges. Prepare a large baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper for easy cleanup and to prevent sticking.
- Step 2: Wash and peel your sweet potatoes. I like to trim off the ends first, then cut them lengthwise into halves, and then into thick wedges about ½-inch thick. Aim for uniform size so they cook evenly.
- Step 3: In a large mixing bowl, combine the 3 tablespoons of olive oil with the 4 minced garlic cloves. Give it a good stir to make sure the garlic is well distributed throughout the oil. The aroma is already starting to smell amazing!
- Step 4: Add your prepared sweet potato wedges to the bowl with the garlic-infused oil. Toss them gently but thoroughly with your hands or a spatula until every wedge is beautifully coated.
- Step 5: Now it’s time for the flavor! Sprinkle in the 1 teaspoon smoked paprika, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, ½ teaspoon salt, ¼ teaspoon black pepper, and half of your grated Parmesan cheese. Toss everything together until the spices and cheese cling to the sweet potatoes.
- Step 6: Spread the seasoned sweet potato wedges in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. It’s really important not to overcrowd the pan, otherwise, they’ll steam instead of roast. Give them some space to get crispy!
- Step 7: Carefully place the baking sheet into the preheated oven. Bake for 25-30 minutes. About halfway through, at around the 12-15 minute mark, flip the wedges so they get golden brown and delicious on all sides.
- Step 8: During the last 5 minutes of baking, sprinkle the remaining Parmesan cheese over the wedges. This helps it melt and create that wonderful cheesy crust we all love.
- Step 9: Your garlic parmesan sweet potato side dish is ready when the wedges are fork-tender on the inside and have lovely golden-brown, slightly crispy edges. The smell is incredible!
- Step 10: Remove the baking sheet from the oven. Let the wedges cool on the sheet for a couple of minutes – this helps them firm up a bit. If you like, garnish with some fresh chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness before serving this delightful garlic parmesan sweet potato side dish.
Pro Tips for the Best Garlic Parmesan Sweet Potato
I’ve learned a few tricks to make these wedges absolutely perfect every time. These tips will elevate your garlic parmesan sweet potato game!
- Don’t skip the parchment paper! It’s a lifesaver for cleanup and helps prevent the sweet potatoes from sticking, ensuring a beautiful presentation.
- Ensure your oven is fully preheated. A hot oven is key for achieving that desirable crispy exterior on your garlic parmesan sweet potato.
- Avoid overcrowding the baking sheet. Giving the wedges space allows hot air to circulate, promoting even browning and crispiness.
What’s the secret to perfect garlic parmesan sweet potato?
The real secret is high heat and giving them space! This ensures they get that lovely parmesan crusted sweet potato garlic texture. Also, tossing them in garlic-infused oil before seasoning helps everything adhere beautifully. For more tips on achieving perfect textures, check out this guide on creamy polenta.
Can I make garlic parmesan sweet potato ahead of time?
Yes, you can prep the sweet potato wedges ahead! Cut them, toss with the oil and spices (but not the Parmesan yet), and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking.
How do I avoid common mistakes with garlic parmesan sweet potato?
A common pitfall is overcrowding the pan, which leads to soggy wedges. Also, ensure your sweet potatoes are cut into uniform sizes so they cook evenly. Lastly, don’t overbake, or they can become dry. For a different potato preparation, consider these crispy potato egg cheese bites.
Best Ways to Serve Garlic Parmesan Sweet Potato
These versatile wedges are fantastic with so many dishes! They make a wonderful garlic parmesan sweet potato side dish alongside grilled chicken or steak, adding a touch of sweetness and savory goodness to your plate. Try them with our baked lemon rosemary chicken for a complete meal.
For a vegetarian meal, try pairing them with a hearty lentil soup or a fresh, crisp green salad. The combination of the savory sweet potato with garlic parmesan and your main course creates a truly satisfying meal. They’re also great as a standalone snack or appetizer with a side of aioli or your favorite dipping sauce!
Nutrition Facts for Garlic Parmesan Sweet Potato
Here’s a nutritional breakdown for these delicious garlic parmesan sweet potato wedges per serving:
- Calories: 220 kcal
- Fat: 9g
- Protein: 4g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 5g
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 350mg
Nutritional values are estimates and can vary based on the exact ingredients and portion sizes used. For more healthy eating tips, you might find information on healthy honey mustard crusted tilapia useful.
How to Store and Reheat Garlic Parmesan Sweet Potato
Once your delicious garlic parmesan sweet potato wedges have cooled completely, proper storage is key to maintaining their texture and flavor. I usually let them sit on the baking sheet for about 15-20 minutes before transferring them to an airtight container. This prevents excess moisture from making them soggy, which is crucial if you plan to use them later, perhaps as part of a quick weeknight meal or even a make-ahead garlic parmesan sweet potato casserole.
You can keep these tasty wedges in the refrigerator for about 3 to 4 days. For longer storage, they freeze beautifully! Spread them in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep well for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to reheat, the oven is your best friend. Pop them on a baking sheet at 375°F (190°C) for about 5-10 minutes until heated through and they regain some crispiness. You can also reheat them in an air fryer for a similar effect!
Frequently Asked Questions About Garlic Parmesan Sweet Potato
Is it better to peel sweet potatoes for wedges?
It’s really a personal preference! I find that peeling them results in a more tender interior and a cleaner presentation, especially when making a dish like garlic parmesan sweet potato wedges. However, leaving the skin on adds extra fiber and a slightly chewier texture, which some people enjoy. If you do leave the skin on, just make sure to scrub them really well.
Can I use different types of cheese on my garlic parmesan sweet potato?
Absolutely! While Parmesan is fantastic, feel free to experiment. A sharp cheddar, Gruyere, or even a blend of Italian cheeses can add a different delicious dimension. Just be mindful that softer cheeses might melt differently and could brown faster. The key is a good melt and savory flavor to complement the sweet potato.
How do I cook garlic parmesan sweet potato if I don’t have an oven?
If you don’t have an oven, you can definitely still make these! You can achieve a similar result by pan-frying them in a skillet with a little oil over medium heat, turning them frequently until tender and browned. Alternatively, an air fryer is excellent for making these garlic parmesan sweet potato wedges crispy and delicious in about 15-20 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.
What temperature should I bake garlic parmesan sweet potato at?
For the best texture, a high oven temperature is ideal. I always recommend preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high heat helps to caramelize the natural sugars in the sweet potato and achieve that lovely crispy exterior that pairs so well with the garlic and Parmesan. It’s the secret to a great garlic parmesan sweet potato bake!
Variations of Garlic Parmesan Sweet Potato You Can Try
Once you master the basic garlic parmesan sweet potato, you’ll want to explore all the delicious ways to switch it up! These variations are simple ways to add new flavors or cater to different needs.
- Spicy Kick: For those who love a little heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes along with the paprika. This creates a wonderful sweet-spicy-savory combination in your garlic parmesan roasted sweet potato cubes.
- Herb Garden: Mix in finely chopped fresh rosemary or thyme with the garlic and olive oil. These fragrant herbs pair beautifully with the sweet potato and Parmesan.
- Vegan Delight: Easily make this dish vegan by swapping the Parmesan cheese for nutritional yeast, or use a dairy-free shredded Parmesan alternative. The flavor is still fantastic!
- Air Fryer Method: If you have an air fryer, these wedges are a dream! Cook at 390°F (195°C) for 15-20 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until golden and crispy.
Garlic Parmesan Sweet Potato: 2 Simple Steps
- Total Time: 40-45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Garlic Parmesan Sweet Potato Wedges are a delicious and nutritious side dish that combines the sweetness of sweet potatoes with the savory flavors of garlic and Parmesan cheese. These wedges offer a crispy exterior and a tender interior, making them a crowd-pleasing addition to any meal.
Ingredients
- 2 large sweet potatoes
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Wash and peel the sweet potatoes. Cut them into wedges, about ½-inch thick.
- In a large bowl, combine olive oil and minced garlic. Stir until the garlic is evenly distributed in the oil.
- Add the sweet potato wedges to the bowl and toss until they are well-coated with the oil and garlic mixture.
- Sprinkle smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and half of the grated Parmesan cheese over the sweet potatoes. Toss to combine evenly.
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Spread sweet potato wedges out in a single layer, ensuring they aren’t overcrowded.
- Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. Flip the wedges halfway through for even cooking.
- In the last 5 minutes of baking, sprinkle the remaining Parmesan cheese over the wedges.
- The wedges should be golden brown and crispy on the outside and tender on the inside when they are done.
- Remove from the oven and let them cool for a couple of minutes. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired before serving.
Notes
- For best flavor and texture, choose firm, fresh sweet potatoes without blemishes.
- Spacing the wedges on the baking sheet ensures they become crispy instead of steaming.
- Feel free to add your favorite spices, like cayenne pepper or Italian herbs, to customize the flavor.
- These wedges are best enjoyed right after baking while they are still hot and crispy.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 220 kcal
- Sugar: N/A
- Sodium: N/A
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: N/A
- Unsaturated Fat: N/A
- Trans Fat: N/A
- Carbohydrates: N/A
- Fiber: N/A
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: N/A