Shake and Bake Sweet Potatoes are an easy and tasty side dish! You simply coat sweet potato pieces with a flavorful mix and bake them until crispy. Yum!
These sweet potatoes are perfect with almost any meal. I can’t resist their natural sweetness paired with the crunchy coating. If you don’t have much time, this dish is a breeze!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Sweet Potatoes: The star of this dish! When choosing sweet potatoes, look for firm ones with smooth skin. If you can’t find sweet potatoes, butternut squash makes a great substitute, offering a similar sweetness and texture.
Cornmeal: This gives a lovely crunch. You can swap it with breadcrumbs for a different texture or even ground oats for a gluten-free option. Personally, I love the flavor that cornmeal adds!
Spices: Paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder make a fantastic flavor base. Feel free to get creative: smoked paprika for a smoky kick or cayenne for heat. Adjust based on your taste preferences.
Olive Oil: A nice, healthy fat. If you want to change it up, use avocado oil for a subtle taste. It’s high in healthy fats and has a high smoke point too.
Parsley: This is purely for garnish, adding a fresh touch. If you don’t have parsley, try fresh cilantro or even green onions for a different flavor profile!
How Do I Make Sure My Sweet Potatoes Are Crispy?
Getting that perfect crispiness is key! Here are some steps to help you achieve golden, crunchy sweet potatoes:
- Pat the diced sweet potatoes dry with a paper towel after peeling. Removing excess moisture helps them crisp up better.
- Keep them in a single layer on the baking sheet. Crowding them can lead to steaming instead of roasting. If you have a lot, bake in batches!
- Make sure to flip halfway through cooking. This ensures even browning on all sides for that perfect crunch.
- Don’t skip the preheat step! A hot oven helps the sweet potatoes start crisping instantly.
How to Make Shake And Bake Sweet Potatoes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced into 1-inch cubes
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup cornmeal
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- Optional: fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This yummy recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 25-30 minutes to bake. In total, you’ll spend about 40 minutes before you can enjoy these delicious sweet potatoes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). This temperature will help your sweet potatoes turn crispy and delicious. While the oven is heating up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
2. Mix the Coating:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, cornmeal, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir everything together until it’s well mixed. This blend will give your sweet potatoes a flavorful outer crunch!
3. Coat the Sweet Potatoes:
Next, add the diced sweet potatoes to your bowl. Drizzle the olive oil over them. With clean hands or a spatula, toss the sweet potatoes in the mixture. Make sure each piece is evenly coated with the flour and spices. This will help them bake up crispy in the oven.
4. Spread on the Baking Sheet:
Now it’s time to spread the coated sweet potatoes onto your prepared baking sheet. Arrange them in a single layer to ensure even cooking—no overlapping!
5. Bake the Sweet Potatoes:
Place the baking sheet in your preheated oven. Bake for 25-30 minutes, turning the sweet potatoes halfway through the cooking time. This flipping helps all sides get golden and crispy. Keep an eye on them towards the end!
6. Cool and Garnish:
Once they’re done baking and looking crispy, take them out of the oven and let them cool slightly. If you want, sprinkle some chopped fresh parsley on top for a pop of color and freshness.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
These Shake And Bake Sweet Potatoes are perfect as a side dish or a tasty snack. Serve them warm and enjoy every flavorful bite!
Can I Use Other Types of Potatoes for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use regular white or yellow potatoes if you prefer! Just keep in mind that cooking time may vary slightly, so check for doneness by piercing them with a fork.
What Can I Substitute for the Cornmeal?
If you don’t have cornmeal on hand, you can substitute it with an equal amount of breadcrumbs for a similar texture, or use additional flour. Just be aware that the flavor and crunch may differ slightly.
How to Store Leftover Shake And Bake Sweet Potatoes
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them on a baking sheet and warm in a 375°F (190°C) oven for about 10-15 minutes to restore their crispiness.
Can I Make This Dish Vegan?
Absolutely! This recipe is already vegan-friendly since it doesn’t include any animal products. Just ensure your seasonings are also vegan, and you’re all set!
