Transform your meals and snacks with the irresistible charm of Baked Sweet Potato Slices. These simple yet sensational slices are the ultimate versatile addition to any menu, whether you’re planning an elaborate holiday feast, seeking a wholesome after-school snack, or just craving a delicious and nutritious side dish for a weeknight dinner. Thinly sliced and perfectly baked until golden brown and beautifully tender, they offer a naturally sweet flavor profile that pleases every palate. Forget complicated recipes; this dish is a testament to the power of fresh ingredients and straightforward preparation.
Pairing beautifully with a wide array of main courses, these oven sweet potatoes elevate any meal. Imagine them alongside a succulent Crock-Pot Turkey Tenderloin or a zesty Cajun Turkey for a memorable holiday dinner. And for a truly complete experience, don’t forget to include a savory Sourdough Stuffing on your table. This recipe isn’t just easy; it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that brings warmth and flavor to any gathering, big or small.
Baked Sweet Potato Slices Video Tutorial
For a visual guide to mastering these delicious baked sweet potato slices, watch our comprehensive video tutorial. It walks you through each step, ensuring you achieve perfect, golden, and tender results every time. Follow along to see just how easy it is to prepare this fantastic side dish or snack.
Why You’ll Love Baked Sweet Potato Slices
These baked sweet potato slices aren’t just a dish; they’re a lifestyle choice for anyone seeking delicious, wholesome, and effortless cooking. Here are just a few reasons why they quickly become a household favorite:
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A Wholesome and Effortless Snack or Side.
Sweet potatoes are nutritional powerhouses, packed with essential vitamins and dietary fiber. They are an excellent source of Vitamin C, which supports your immune system, and Vitamin E, a potent antioxidant. Their rich fiber content aids digestion and helps maintain a feeling of fullness, making these slices a satisfyingly healthy choice. The best part? They are incredibly simple to prepare, requiring minimal effort for maximum flavor and health benefits.
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Universally Loved, Especially by Kids.
It’s no secret that finger foods are a hit with both children and adults, and these sweet potato rounds are no exception. Their convenient size and naturally sweet flavor make them an appealing option for even the pickiest eaters. They’re perfect for little hands to grab and enjoy on the go, whether as a quick snack after school or a fun addition to their meal. Pair them with other kid-friendly favorites like fluffy Sour Cream Biscuits or classic Old Fashioned Yeast Rolls for a truly delightful spread.
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Remarkably Simple Ingredients.
One of the most appealing aspects of this recipe is its simplicity. There’s no need for an extensive grocery run or exotic ingredients. With just one main star – the humble sweet potato – and a few common pantry staples like olive oil and your favorite seasonings, you can whip up this impressive dish. This makes it an ideal choice for busy weeknights, last-minute gatherings, or when you just want to enjoy a flavorful meal without the fuss.
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Incredibly Versatile for Customization.
While delicious on their own, baked sweet potato slices are a blank canvas for culinary creativity. From savory to sweet, spicy to herby, they readily adapt to countless flavor profiles. This versatility ensures that you can enjoy them in a new way every time, keeping your taste buds excited and your meals fresh. We’ll explore many exciting variations later in this guide!
Ingredient Notes and Simple Substitutions
Crafting the perfect batch of crispy sweet potato slices starts with understanding your ingredients. Here’s a deeper look into what you’ll need and how you can adapt the recipe to your preferences:
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Sweet Potatoes: The star of our show! While sweet potatoes are a beloved classic for holidays and everyday meals, their vibrant orange flesh, natural sweetness, and creamy texture are truly unique. When selecting, look for firm, smooth-skinned potatoes without any soft spots or sprouts. While you can certainly use other root vegetables like carrots or parsnips for a similar preparation, the distinct flavor and nutritional profile of sweet potatoes are unmatched.
Choosing between Sweet Potatoes and Yams: It’s a common misconception that sweet potatoes and yams are the same. In most U.S. grocery stores, what’s labeled as a “yam” is typically just another variety of sweet potato (often a moist, orange-fleshed one). True yams are starchy tubers with a rougher, bark-like skin and a less sweet, more earthy flavor. For this recipe, stick with what’s labeled “sweet potato” for that signature sweetness and soft texture when baked.
- Olive Oil: Essential for achieving those desirable golden-brown edges and preventing sticking. Olive oil also contributes to the rich flavor of the dish. If you prefer, canola oil, avocado oil, or even melted coconut oil (for a slightly sweeter, tropical hint) can be excellent alternatives. The key is to ensure an even, light coating on all slices for consistent baking and texture.
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Spices (Salt, Pepper, Smoked Paprika): Our basic trio provides a fantastic savory base with a touch of warmth from the smoked paprika. This combination highlights the natural sweetness of the potatoes without overpowering them. However, this is where your creativity can shine!
- For a touch of heat: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder.
- For earthy depth: Incorporate garlic powder, onion powder, or a dash of cumin.
- For aromatic freshness: Dried rosemary, thyme, or sage are wonderful additions, especially for holiday flavors.
- For a sweeter profile: A sprinkle of cinnamon, nutmeg, or even a drizzle of maple syrup or brown sugar before baking can transform them into a dessert-like treat.
Feel free to use your favorite all-purpose spice blend, but always taste and adjust the seasoning to your liking.
Love sweet potatoes in all forms? Make sure to try our comforting Canned Sweet Potato Casserole for another delightful recipe!
Expert Tips for Perfect Sweet Potato Slices
Achieving perfectly tender and caramelized oven sweet potatoes is easier than you think with these expert tips:
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Choose and Prepare Uniformly Sized Sweet Potatoes.
The secret to even baking lies in consistency. Opt for sweet potatoes that are roughly similar in size. If your sweet potatoes are particularly large, consider cutting them in half lengthwise before proceeding with crosswise slices. Aim for slices that are about 1/2-inch thick. Using a sharp chef’s knife or a mandoline slicer (with caution!) will help you achieve uniform thickness, ensuring every piece cooks through at the same rate. Inconsistent slices can lead to some pieces being burnt while others remain undercooked.
Select sweet potatoes of similar size for even cooking. -
Ensure a Generous and Even Coating of Oil.
Oil is not just for flavor; it’s crucial for achieving that beautiful golden-brown crust and preventing the slices from sticking to your baking sheet. After tossing the sweet potato slices with olive oil and spices in a large mixing bowl, visually inspect them to ensure every surface has a light, even coating. If some areas look dry, add a tiny bit more oil and toss again. You can also lightly spray your parchment-lined baking sheet with non-stick cooking spray for an extra layer of protection against sticking, especially if your potatoes are particularly starchy.
Carefully slice sweet potatoes to an even thickness. -
Arrange in a Single Layer for Optimal Roasting.
This tip is paramount for crispiness and even cooking. Overcrowding your baking sheet is a common mistake that leads to steamed, rather than roasted, vegetables. When slices overlap or are piled too high, moisture gets trapped, preventing caramelization and crisping. Always arrange your sweet potato slices in a single layer with a little space between each piece. If you have too many slices for one pan, use a second baking sheet. Patience here pays off in texture and flavor!
Prepare your ingredients and baking sheet for a seamless cooking process. -
Monitor and Check for Doneness.
While the recipe provides an estimated baking time, ovens can vary, and sweet potato thickness can impact cooking duration. Start checking for doneness around the 25-minute mark. The easiest way to tell if your baked sweet potato slices are ready is to gently poke the center of a few slices with a fork. If the fork slides in easily without resistance, they are perfectly tender. Visually, they should also boast a beautiful golden-brown hue on both sides, indicating delicious caramelization and a slightly crispy exterior. Don’t be afraid to flip them halfway through baking for even browning!
Ensure sweet potato slices are in a single layer for even baking.
Serving Suggestions & Flavor Variations
The beauty of these baked sweet potato slices lies in their incredible adaptability. They can effortlessly transition from a humble side dish to a star component, complementing almost any meal or occasion. Here are numerous ways to serve them and exciting flavor variations to try:
Classic & Comforting Servings:
- Holiday Feast Essential: These slices are a natural fit for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or Easter. Their vibrant color and sweet flavor brighten up any festive table.
- Perfect Weeknight Side: Serve them alongside roasted chicken, grilled fish, or a hearty steak for a wholesome and satisfying dinner.
- Easy Appetizer or Snack: Offer them as a simple finger food with a dipping sauce like ranch, a spicy aioli, or even a tangy Greek yogurt dip.
- Breakfast Boost: Add a few slices to your breakfast plate alongside eggs and bacon for a delicious and nutritious start to your day.
Elevate with Flavor Variations:
While delicious with just salt, pepper, and paprika, these slices are a fantastic canvas for creativity:
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Sweet & Indulgent:
- Maple Cinnamon Sweet Potatoes: Toss the raw slices with 1 tablespoon of pure maple syrup, a generous sprinkle of cinnamon (about 1 teaspoon), and a pinch of nutmeg before roasting. The maple syrup caramelizes beautifully, creating a sweet glaze.
- Brown Sugar & Pecan: After baking, lightly brush with melted butter, sprinkle with a mix of brown sugar and chopped pecans, then return to the oven for 5 minutes until caramelized.
- Honey Glazed: Drizzle with warm honey or agave syrup immediately after removing from the oven for a natural, sticky sweetness.
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Savory & Herby:
- Garlic Herb Sweet Potatoes: Mix the slices with 2 minced garlic cloves, 1 teaspoon of dried rosemary, and a tablespoon of freshly chopped parsley along with the olive oil before roasting. Garnish with extra fresh herbs for a fragrant, savory twist that pairs wonderfully with roasts.
- Italian Herbs: Use an Italian seasoning blend, garlic powder, and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese (add Parmesan in the last 10 minutes of baking to prevent burning) for a Mediterranean flair.
- Lemon & Thyme: Toss with fresh lemon zest and thyme sprigs. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice after baking brightens the flavors.
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Spicy & Zesty:
- Spicy Chili Lime Sweet Potatoes: Add ½ teaspoon of chili powder (or more, to taste) and the zest of 1 lime to the olive oil mixture before coating the potatoes. After roasting, squeeze fresh lime juice over the top for a vibrant, zesty, and spicy kick.
- Smoky Chipotle: Incorporate smoked paprika with a pinch of chipotle powder for a deeper, smoky heat.
- Harissa Spiced: For an adventurous palate, lightly coat with a tiny amount of harissa paste mixed with olive oil before baking.
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Cheesy Goodness:
- Parmesan Delight: Toss with grated Parmesan cheese during the last 10-15 minutes of baking, or sprinkle on top just before serving.
- Feta & Mint: A fresh and tangy combination. After baking, crumble feta cheese over the warm slices and sprinkle with fresh mint.
With these variations, you can truly make these baked sweet potato slices your own, adapting them to any taste preference or dietary need. Experiment and discover your favorite combinations!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are some common questions about baking sweet potato slices to help you achieve the best results:
What is the best temperature to bake sweet potato slices?
For optimal caramelization and a tender-crisp texture, oven-roasted sweet potato slices should be cooked at a high temperature, typically 400-450°F (200-230°C). Our recipe calls for 450°F, which ensures they become beautifully golden and slightly crispy on the outside while remaining soft and fluffy inside.
Do you pierce sweet potato slices before baking in the oven?
Unlike whole sweet potatoes, which benefit from piercing to allow steam to escape and prevent bursting, sweet potato slices do not need to be pierced. Their thin nature provides ample surface area for moisture to evaporate, allowing them to crisp up beautifully in the oven without the need for additional venting holes.
Do you cover sweet potatoes when baking?
Generally, there’s no need to cover sweet potato slices when baking. Covering them would trap steam, which prevents them from achieving that desirable golden-brown, slightly crispy exterior. The goal is to roast them, allowing the direct heat to caramelize their natural sugars. However, if you notice that the edges are browning too quickly while the centers are still firm, you can loosely cover the baking sheet with aluminum foil for the last 5-10 minutes to help them cook through without burning.
Should I peel sweet potatoes before baking slices?
No, it’s not necessary to peel sweet potatoes for slices! The skin is entirely edible, full of fiber and nutrients, and gets wonderfully crispy when baked. Just be sure to scrub them thoroughly under running water before slicing to remove any dirt or impurities.
Can I make these ahead of time?
While baked sweet potato slices are best enjoyed fresh out of the oven for optimal crispiness, you can certainly prepare them slightly in advance. You can slice and season the potatoes up to a day before and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Bake them just before serving. Cooked leftovers can be stored as described below.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover baked sweet potato slices in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. To reheat, you can place them back in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes to help restore some crispiness, or warm them in the microwave in 30-second increments until heated through. Be aware that microwave reheating will make them softer rather than crispy.
🎯 Pro Tip
If you’re looking for an alternative cooking method to achieve similar crispy results in less time, air frying is a fantastic option for sweet potato slices. Check out this air fryer sweet potatoes post for detailed instructions and tips!
Consider Making These Other Delicious Side Dish Recipes…
Looking to round out your meal with more fantastic sides? Here are some other delightful recipes that complement a variety of main dishes:
- Instant Pot Fried Potatoes: Quick and easy breakfast or brunch potatoes.
- Fried Rice on Blackstone Griddle: A flavorful and fun outdoor cooking experience.
- Oven Roasted Green Beans and Potatoes: A simple, nutritious, and delicious vegetable side.
- Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The ultimate comfort food side.
- Garlic Parmesan Asparagus: A vibrant and elegant green vegetable dish.
If you tried this Baked Sweet Potato Slices recipe or any other recipe on my website, please leave a 🌟 star rating and let me know how it went in the 📝 comments below. Your feedback means the world to me! Thanks for visiting!
The Ultimate Baked Sweet Potato Slices Recipe
Baked Sweet Potato Slices
By: Renae Gerhardstein
A simple yet stunning addition to your holiday feast or a healthy everyday snack, these baked sweet potato slices offer a burst of natural sweetness and satisfying texture in under an hour.
Rating: 4.96 out of 5 stars (based on 23 votes)
Print Recipe
Pin Recipe
Course: Side Dish, Holiday
Cuisine: American
Servings: 6 people
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Calories: 173 kcal
Equipment
- Baking Sheet
- Parchment paper
- Non-stick cooking spray
- Large mixing bowl
Ingredients
- 2 pounds small sweet potatoes, unpeeled, cut crosswise into 1/2-inch thick slices
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon pepper
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 450ºF (230°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or spray it generously with cooking oil spray to prevent any sticking.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the sliced sweet potatoes, olive oil, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Toss all the ingredients together thoroughly, ensuring that each sweet potato slice is completely coated with a light film of oil and spices. This ensures even cooking and flavor distribution.
- Arrange the seasoned sweet potato slices in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Make sure there is some space between each slice to allow for proper roasting and browning. Roast in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the slices are lightly browned, tender when pierced with a fork, and slightly caramelized. Flip them halfway through for even cooking if desired.
Video
Notes
- If you prefer an alternate method for cooking your sweet potato slices, air frying is a fantastic option that often results in even crispier edges. For detailed instructions, refer to this air fryer sweet potatoes guide.
- For optimal baking, select sweet potatoes that are uniformly sized. If you’re using larger sweet potatoes, it’s a good idea to cut them in half lengthwise before slicing crosswise to ensure all pieces cook evenly. Alternatively, if your slices are thicker, you may need to increase the baking time to 40-45 minutes.
- Recipe Variations:
- Maple Cinnamon Sweet Potatoes: For a delightful fall-inspired flavor, toss the sweet potato slices with 1 tablespoon of pure maple syrup, a generous sprinkle of cinnamon (about 1 teaspoon), and a pinch of salt before roasting. This creates a warm, slightly sweet glaze.
- Garlic Herb Sweet Potatoes: Elevate the savory notes by mixing the slices with 2 minced garlic cloves, 1 teaspoon of dried rosemary, and a tablespoon of freshly chopped parsley along with the olive oil before roasting. Garnish with extra fresh herbs for an aromatic and savory twist.
- Spicy Chili Lime Sweet Potatoes: For a zesty kick, add ½ teaspoon of chili powder and the zest of 1 lime to the olive oil mixture before coating the potatoes. Once roasted, squeeze fresh lime juice over the top for an invigorating, spicy finish.
- Storing Instructions:
- Store any leftover baked sweet potato slices in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days.
- To reheat, place them in the microwave and warm in 30-second increments until they are heated through. For best texture, reheating in an oven or air fryer will help maintain some crispiness.
Nutrition Information (per serving)
- Calories: 173 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 31g
- Protein: 2g
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 3g
- Sodium: 277mg
- Potassium: 519mg
- Fiber: 5g
- Sugar: 6g
- Vitamin A: 21615 IU
- Vitamin C: 4mg
- Calcium: 47mg
- Iron: 1mg