Crispy Parmesan Sweet Potato Bites Recipe
These Crispy Parmesan Sweet Potato Bites are an irresistible combination of tender sweet potato and crispy, cheesy goodness. Perfect as a snack, side dish, or appetizer, they are sure to be a hit with family and friends!
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cook Time: 30 minutes | Total Time: 40 minutes | Servings: 4
Ingredients:
2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes
2 tbsp olive oil
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (freshly grated for the best flavor)
1 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp paprika
1/4 tsp black pepper
1/4 tsp salt (or to taste)
1/2 tsp dried thyme (optional)
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)
Instructions:
Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with cooking spray.
Prepare the Sweet Potatoes:
Peel and cut the sweet potatoes into even 1-inch cubes. Try to make them as uniform as possible to ensure even cooking.
Coat the Sweet Potatoes:
In a large mixing bowl, toss the sweet potato cubes with olive oil to coat them evenly.
Add the garlic powder, paprika, black pepper, salt, and dried thyme (if using). Stir until the sweet potatoes are evenly coated with the spices.
Add Parmesan:
Add the grated Parmesan cheese to the bowl and toss again to coat the sweet potato cubes with the cheese.
Arrange on Baking Sheet:
Spread the coated sweet potato cubes in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Ensure the pieces are not crowded, as this will help them crisp up properly.
Bake:
Bake the sweet potatoes in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, flipping them halfway through. Bake until they are golden brown and crispy on the edges. You can check for doneness by piercing a piece with a fork— it should be tender on the inside and crispy on the outside.
Garnish and Serve:
Once baked, remove the sweet potato bites from the oven. Optionally, garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
Serve immediately as a snack, side dish, or appetizer.
Notes & Tips:
Cutting the Sweet Potatoes: For even cooking, it’s important to cut the sweet potatoes into uniform 1-inch cubes. If they’re too thick, they might take longer to cook and won’t get as crispy.
Olive Oil: Olive oil is the best choice for roasting sweet potatoes, but you can also use avocado oil or vegetable oil. The oil helps achieve that crispy texture and enhances the flavors of the seasoning.
Parmesan Cheese: For the crispiest texture, use freshly grated Parmesan rather than pre-grated cheese. Pre-grated cheese has a coating that can prevent it from crisping up as much.
Extra Crispiness: If you want even crispier bites, you can broil them for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking, but keep an eye on them to avoid burning.
Spice Variations: You can customize the seasoning to your preference. For a kick, add some cayenne pepper or chili powder. You can also experiment with Italian seasoning or oregano for different flavor profiles.
Dipping Sauces: These crispy Parmesan sweet potato bites pair wonderfully with a variety of dips, such as ranch dressing, garlic aioli, or a sour cream and chive dip. For a Mediterranean touch, try a tzatziki sauce.
Make-Ahead Option: You can prep the sweet potatoes ahead of time. Coat them with the oil and seasonings, then refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. If you’re short on time, you can also bake them in advance and reheat them in the oven to restore their crispiness.
Air Fryer Option: If you prefer using an air fryer, preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Arrange the seasoned sweet potato cubes in a single layer and cook for about 15-18 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through for even cooking.
Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to maintain the crispy texture.