Shake and Bake Sweet Potatoes are a fun and easy side dish! Just coat sweet potato chunks with a tasty seasoning mix and bake until they’re golden and crispy. Yum!
These sweet potatoes are like little flavor-packed nuggets. I love how crispy they turn out, and it’s a great way to make veggies exciting. Even the pickiest eaters might clean their plates! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Sweet Potatoes: These are the star of the dish! Feel free to swap them with regular potatoes if you prefer, but the sweetness and nutrients of sweet potatoes give a unique twist that’s hard to beat.
Olive Oil: This adds richness and helps the seasonings stick. You can use avocado oil or melted coconut oil as a substitute, but I find that olive oil has the best flavor for this dish.
Breadcrumbs: I recommend panko for extra crunch, but regular breadcrumbs will work too. For a gluten-free option, try crushed cornflakes or gluten-free breadcrumbs.
Parmesan Cheese: This adds a nice salty flavor. If you’re dairy-free, try nutritional yeast for a cheesy taste without the cheese, or skip it entirely!
Spices: Garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika are essential for flavor. If you want to experiment, try adding chili powder for a kick or Italian seasoning for a different vibe.
How Do I Get the Sweet Potatoes Crispy?
Getting that perfect crispiness requires a few steps. First, use a hot oven to kick things off with high heat! Preheat to 425°F (220°C) to ensure they cook quickly and evenly.
- Spread the sweet potatoes in a single layer; overcrowding will steam them instead of roasting.
- Toss halfway through baking to promote even browning on all sides.
- If you want extra crisp, leave them in for a few minutes longer but keep an eye on them to avoid burning.
Shake and Bake Sweet Potatoes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Sweet Potatoes:
- 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced into 1-inch cubes
- 1/4 cup olive oil
For the Coating:
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (panko for extra crunch)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional Garnish:
- Fresh herbs (like parsley or thyme)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and around 25-30 minutes to bake in the oven. So, you’ll be enjoying your tasty Shake and Bake Sweet Potatoes in just about 40 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). While the oven is warming up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This will help prevent the sweet potatoes from sticking to the pan and make cleanup a breeze!
2. Coat the Sweet Potatoes:
In a large bowl, add the diced sweet potatoes. Pour in the olive oil and mix well using your hands or a spatula. Make sure that all the sweet potato cubes are evenly coated with the oil. This will help them get crispy as they bake.
3. Prepare the Coating:
In a separate bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together until it’s well combined. This flavorful mixture will give your sweet potatoes that crunchy and savory coating!
4. Toss and Coat:
Add the breadcrumb mixture to the bowl with the sweet potatoes. Gently toss everything together until all the sweet potato cubes are beautifully coated in the breadcrumb mix. You want every piece to be covered for the best flavor!
5. Bake the Sweet Potatoes:
Spread the coated sweet potatoes in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Make sure they aren’t too crowded, as this helps them cook evenly. Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes. Remember to stir the potatoes halfway through to ensure they cook evenly and get crispy on all sides.
6. Cool and Garnish:
Once they’re golden brown and crispy, carefully remove the sweet potatoes from the oven. Let them cool slightly before serving. If you like, sprinkle some fresh herbs on top for a touch of color and extra flavor!
Enjoy your delicious Shake and Bake Sweet Potatoes! They’re perfect as a side dish or a tasty snack!
Can I Use Different Types of Potatoes?
Absolutely! While sweet potatoes give a unique flavor, you can substitute them with regular potatoes or even butternut squash. Keep in mind that cooking times may vary—regular potatoes might need a few extra minutes to bake until tender.
How to Make This Recipe Vegan?
For a vegan version, simply omit the Parmesan cheese or use a plant-based alternative. Nutritional yeast can also be a great substitute to give you that cheesy flavor while keeping it dairy-free!
What Should I Do If I Don’t Have Breadcrumbs?
No worries! If you’re out of breadcrumbs, you can use crushed crackers, cornmeal, or even oats as an alternative. Just ensure that any substitute you choose complements the seasoning for the best results!
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, simply toss them back in the oven or microwave for a few minutes until warmed through. If you want them crispy again, a quick reheat in the oven works best!
