Honey Roasted Sweet Potatoes are a simple and tasty side dish that brings out the natural sweetness of the potatoes with a warm drizzle of honey. The edges get perfectly caramelized while the inside stays soft and tender—a mix of textures that’s hard to resist. They have a golden color and a little hint of crispiness that makes them a nice match for almost any meal.
I love making this dish because it’s so easy and feels a little special. The honey adds just the right touch of sweetness without being too much, and roasting them brings out a depth of flavor that boiled potatoes just can’t touch. I usually toss the potatoes with a bit of olive oil, a pinch of salt, and then drizzle the honey just before roasting for that perfect balance.
These sweet potatoes are great served alongside anything from grilled chicken to a cozy bowl of chili. I especially enjoy them as part of a holiday meal or a casual family dinner because everyone can find something to love in them. Plus, they taste just as good leftover, so I often make a big batch to have handy for snacking or warming up the next day.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Sweet Potatoes: This is the star of the dish. Choose firm, unblemished potatoes for even roasting. You can swap with yams or orange-fleshed pumpkin for a similar sweet flavor.
Olive Oil: Olive oil helps the potatoes roast evenly and adds a subtle flavor. If you prefer a milder taste, vegetable or avocado oil work well too.
Honey: Honey adds a natural sweetness and aids caramelization. Maple syrup or agave nectar are great substitutes for a vegan option.
Thyme: Thyme adds a nice earthy note balancing the sweetness. If you don’t have thyme, rosemary or sage would be delicious replacements.
How Can I Get Sweet Potatoes Roasted Perfectly Crispy Yet Tender?
The secret is in cutting and timing. Cut sweet potatoes into uniform 1-inch cubes so they cook evenly. Toss them well with oil to help crisp the edges.
- Roast at 400°F (200°C), stirring once to cook evenly and get those golden edges.
- Drizzle honey near the end to avoid burning but still get a beautiful glaze.
- Watch closely those last 5 minutes—they finish soft inside yet get nicely caramelized outside.
Using parchment paper also prevents sticking and promotes easy clean-up. This way, you get tender insides with a slightly crisp outside every time.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Baking sheet – I like a sturdy one that spreads the sweet potatoes out in a single layer so they roast evenly.
- Parchment paper or cooking spray – makes cleanup easier and keeps the potatoes from sticking.
- Large mixing bowl – perfect for tossing the sweet potatoes with oil and spices so everything gets coated well.
- Measuring spoons – helps to add the honey, thyme, salt, and pepper accurately.
- Spatula or tongs – for turning or tossing the potatoes halfway through roasting.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Replace thyme with rosemary or sage for a different herb flavor that pairs well with the sweetness.
- Mix in chopped pecans or walnuts after roasting for added crunch and nutty flavor.
- Add a pinch of cayenne or smoked paprika to introduce a little smoky kick or heat.
- Stir in fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro after baking for a fresh, bright contrast.
Honey Roasted Sweet Potatoes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 3 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 tablespoons honey
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or fresh thyme leaves)
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes for preparation and around 30 minutes for roasting. In total, you’ll spend approximately 40 minutes from start to finish. It’s a quick and easy side dish perfect for weeknights or holiday meals.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepping the Oven and Sweet Potatoes:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking. Peel the sweet potatoes and cut them into 1-inch cubes for even cooking.
2. Coating the Sweet Potatoes:
Place the sweet potato cubes in a large bowl. Pour in the olive oil, then sprinkle with salt, pepper, and thyme. Toss everything together until all pieces are evenly coated with oil and seasoning.
3. Roasting Sweet Potatoes:
Spread the coated sweet potatoes in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Place in the oven and roast for about 25-30 minutes. Halfway through, give them a good stir or toss to ensure even cooking and browning.
4. Adding the Honey Glaze:
Five minutes before the end of roasting, take out the baking sheet and drizzle the honey over the sweet potatoes. Toss gently to coat them well with the honey, then return to the oven. Roast for the remaining 5 minutes, allowing the honey to glaze and caramelize the potatoes without burning.
5. Serving:
Once done, remove the sweet potatoes from the oven and let them cool slightly. Serve them warm as a sweet, tasty side dish that pairs wonderfully with many meals.
Can I Use Frozen Sweet Potatoes for This Recipe?
Yes, but make sure to fully thaw frozen sweet potatoes before roasting. Pat them dry to remove excess moisture, which helps them caramelize better in the oven.
Can I Make Honey Roasted Sweet Potatoes Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Roast them according to the recipe, then store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave before serving.
What Can I Substitute for Honey?
You can use maple syrup or agave nectar as vegan-friendly alternatives. These will provide a similar sweetness and help with caramelization.
How Do I Prevent the Honey from Burning?
Drizzle the honey only in the last 5 minutes of roasting and keep an eye on the sweet potatoes. This short time lets the honey glaze without burning or becoming bitter.
