These smoky roasted sweet potatoes are full of flavor and super easy to make! Toss them in the oven for a tasty side that pairs perfectly with the spicy chipotle mayo.
Honestly, the combo of sweet and spicy is just fantastic. I love dipping each bite in that creamy mayo. It makes my tastebuds dance with joy! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Sweet Potatoes: These are the stars of the dish! Look for firm, smooth skin for the best quality. If you’re out of sweet potatoes, butternut squash or regular potatoes can work, though they won’t have the same sweetness.
Smoked Paprika: This spice adds a lovely smoky flavor. If you don’t have it, regular paprika can substitute, but you’ll miss that smokiness. You could also use a dash of liquid smoke, though be careful—it can be strong!
Chipotle Peppers in Adobo Sauce: They give the mayo that spicy kick. If you can’t find them, jalapeños or any hot sauce can stand in. For less heat, use just a dash of cayenne pepper in the mayo instead.
Mayonnaise: While regular mayo is great, you can use vegan mayonnaise if you’re looking for a plant-based option. Greek yogurt can also substitute for a healthier twist, just know it will change the flavor a bit.
How Can I Roast Sweet Potatoes to Get Them Perfectly Crispy?
The key to roasting sweet potatoes is all in the preparation and cooking method. First, ensure the sweet potatoes are cut into even-sized pieces. This helps them cook uniformly.
- Coat them thoroughly with olive oil and spices; this not only adds flavor but helps achieve crispiness.
- Spread them out on the baking sheet in a single layer. Too crowded means they’ll steam instead of roast.
- Turning them halfway through cooking is crucial. This allows all sides to get that golden brown and crispy edge.
- Keep an eye on them during the last few minutes—the timing can vary based on your oven. They’re ready when they’re tender inside and crispy outside.
Smoky Roasted Sweet Potatoes With Chipotle Mayo
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Roasted Sweet Potatoes:
- 4 medium sweet potatoes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust for spice preference)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
For the Chipotle Mayo:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons chipotle peppers in adobo sauce (finely chopped)
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and 30 minutes to roast. Overall, you’re looking at around 40 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a tasty side dish or snack!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). This ensures a nice, hot environment for roasting those sweet potatoes to perfection.
2. Prepare the Sweet Potatoes:
Peel the sweet potatoes and chop them into thick wedges or cubes. The size doesn’t have to be perfect, but aim for even pieces so they cook consistently.
3. Season Them Up:
In a large bowl, mix the sweet potato pieces with olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. Make sure to toss everything well, so all the sweet potatoes are nicely coated with the seasoning.
4. Roast the Sweet Potatoes:
Spread the seasoned sweet potatoes out on a baking sheet in a single layer. This helps them get crispy. Roast them in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes. Remember to turn them halfway through for even cooking!
5. Make the Chipotle Mayo:
While the sweet potatoes are roasting, it’s time to whip up the chipotle mayo! In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise, chopped chipotle peppers, lime juice, garlic powder, and salt. Mix everything together until well blended and set aside.
6. Finishing Touches:
When the sweet potatoes are done, take them out of the oven and let them cool for just a minute. Serve these warm, drizzling the chipotle mayo on top or placing it on the side for dipping. Don’t forget to sprinkle with some fresh parsley for a pop of color and flavor!
Enjoy your Smoky Roasted Sweet Potatoes with Chipotle Mayo as a delightful side or a tasty snack!
Can I Use Other Types of Potatoes for This Recipe?
Absolutely! While sweet potatoes give a unique flavor and sweetness, you can substitute them with regular potatoes, Yukon golds, or even butternut squash. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly depending on the type of potato used.
How Can I Adjust the Spice Level in the Chipotle Mayo?
If you prefer a milder mayo, reduce the amount of chipotle peppers or omit them entirely. You can also add a spoonful of honey or sugar to balance the heat. If you want more spice, consider adding a pinch of cayenne or a few dashes of hot sauce!
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prep the sweet potatoes and toss them in the seasoning up to a day in advance. Store them in the fridge in an airtight container. Just give them a quick toss before roasting! The chipotle mayo can also be made ahead; store it in the fridge for up to a week.
How to Store Leftover Sweet Potatoes?
Store any leftover roasted sweet potatoes in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes for that crispy texture again or microwave them for about 1-2 minutes if you’re short on time.
