Imagine sinking your fork into a golden-brown, caramelized sweet potato half that's crispy on the outside and creamy on the inside. This simple yet extraordinary recipe transforms ordinary sweet potatoes into a spectacular dish that will have your family and friends begging for seconds. Whether you're a cooking novice or a seasoned chef, these baked sweet potato halves are about to become your new favorite go-to side dish that's both nutritious and incredibly delicious!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 40 mins
Total Time: 50 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 medium sweet potatoes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt to taste
- Ground cinnamon (optional)
- Butter (optional, for serving)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil for easy cleanup.
- Wash the sweet potatoes thoroughly under cool running water, scrubbing gently with a vegetable brush to remove any dirt or debris. Pat the sweet potatoes dry with a clean kitchen towel.
- Using a sharp knife, carefully cut each sweet potato lengthwise in half. Ensure the cuts are clean and even to promote uniform cooking.
- Place the sweet potato halves on the prepared baking sheet with the cut side facing up. This allows the flesh to caramelize and develop a rich, golden color.
- Drizzle olive oil evenly over the cut surfaces of the sweet potato halves. Use a pastry brush or the back of a spoon to spread the oil and ensure complete coverage.
- Sprinkle salt generously over the oiled sweet potato surfaces. If desired, add a light dusting of ground cinnamon for additional warmth and flavor.
- Arrange the sweet potato halves cut-side down on the baking sheet to help them develop a caramelized exterior.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork and the edges are golden brown and slightly crispy.
- Remove from the oven and let the sweet potatoes rest for 5 minutes. This allows them to cool slightly and helps the interior become more creamy.
- Optional: Top each sweet potato half with a small pat of butter just before serving to add richness and enhance the flavor.
- Serve warm as a side dish or light meal, garnishing with additional herbs or seasonings if desired.
Tips
- Choose the Right Sweet Potatoes: Select medium-sized sweet potatoes with smooth, firm skin for the best results. Avoid potatoes with soft spots or blemishes.
- Even Cutting is Key: Use a sharp knife and cut your sweet potatoes as evenly as possible to ensure uniform cooking and a beautiful presentation.
- Don't Skip the Oil: The olive oil is crucial for creating that crispy, caramelized exterior. Make sure to coat the entire cut surface thoroughly.
- Positioning Matters: Placing the sweet potatoes cut-side down during part of the cooking process helps develop a rich, golden crust.
- Customize Your Flavor: Experiment with different seasonings like smoked paprika, rosemary, or a sprinkle of brown sugar to make the recipe your own.
- Watch the Cooking Time: Ovens can vary, so start checking your sweet potatoes at the 35-minute mark to prevent overcooking.
- Let Them Rest: Allowing the sweet potatoes to rest for a few minutes after cooking helps them become even more tender and creamy.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 160kcal
Carbohydrates: 23g
Protein: 2g
Fat: 7g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 0mg
