Garlic Parmesan Sweet Potato

This garlic parmesan sweet potato wedges recipe transforms ordinary sweet potatoes into a crispy, savory side dish that balances the natural sweetness with rich garlic and cheese flavors. I created this recipe when looking for a healthier alternative to regular french fries that would still satisfy my family's cravings for something crispy.

I first made these wedges during a weekend barbecue when I wanted something more interesting than plain roasted potatoes. They were such a hit that they've become our go-to side dish for everything from burger nights to holiday meals.

Ingredients

• Sweet potatoes: Provide natural sweetness and are packed with vitamins A and C. Look for firm potatoes with smooth skin for best results
• Olive oil: Helps achieve that perfect crispy exterior. Use a good quality extra virgin for best flavor
• Minced garlic: Adds aromatic flavor. Fresh garlic cloves provide the most potent flavor compared to pre-minced options
• Smoked paprika: Brings a subtle smokiness that complements the sweet potatoes beautifully. The Spanish variety offers the most authentic flavor
• Onion powder: Adds depth without the texture of actual onions. Make sure it's fresh for maximum flavor
• Salt and black pepper: Essential for balancing the sweetness. Use kosher salt for better control
• Parmesan cheese: Creates that irresistible savory crust. Freshly grated works much better than pre-packaged options
• Fresh parsley: Brightens the dish with color and a fresh herb finish. Italian flat-leaf variety has more flavor than curly
• Optional red pepper flakes: Add a gentle heat that contrasts with the sweet potatoes. Adjust to your spice preference

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat the Oven:

Set your oven to 425°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This high temperature is crucial for developing that crispy exterior while maintaining a soft interior. The parchment prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier.

Prepare the Sweet Potatoes:

Thoroughly wash the sweet potatoes to remove any dirt. Cut them into wedges approximately 1 inch thick. Try to keep all wedges uniform in size to ensure even cooking. Leaving the skin on adds texture and nutrients.

Make the Seasoning Mixture:

Combine olive oil, minced garlic, smoked paprika, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using in a small bowl. Whisk thoroughly to infuse the oil with all the spices. This step is crucial for distributing flavor evenly throughout the dish.

Toss the Wedges:

Place sweet potato wedges in a large mixing bowl and pour the seasoning mixture over them. Use your hands or a spatula to ensure each wedge is thoroughly coated. Take your time with this step for the most flavorful result.

Add Parmesan Cheese:

Sprinkle half of the Parmesan cheese over the seasoned wedges and toss again. The cheese will help create a delicious crust during baking. Reserve the other half for after baking for maximum impact.

Arrange on Baking Sheet:

Spread the wedges in a single layer on your prepared baking sheet, ensuring they don’t touch each other. Overcrowding will cause the wedges to steam rather than roast, preventing them from getting crispy.

Bake to Perfection:

Bake for 25-30 minutes, turning the wedges halfway through. Look for golden brown edges and a fork-tender interior. The exact time may vary depending on your oven and the thickness of your wedges.

Final Touch:

While still hot from the oven, sprinkle the remaining Parmesan cheese over the wedges. The residual heat will slightly melt the cheese, creating a delicious finish. This double-cheese approach ensures maximum flavor.

Garnish and Serve:

Sprinkle fresh parsley over the wedges just before serving for a pop of color and freshness. Transfer to a serving platter and serve immediately while still hot and crispy.

The smoked paprika is truly the secret ingredient in this recipe. I discovered its transformative power on sweet potatoes during a cooking class years ago, and now I keep it stocked specifically for this dish. My daughter, who normally avoids vegetables, always asks for seconds of these wedges.

Perfect Pairings

These garlic parmesan sweet potato wedges pair beautifully with grilled proteins like chicken, steak, or fish. The savory-sweet flavor profile complements the charred notes from grilling perfectly. For a complete meal, serve alongside a simple green salad with a light vinaigrette to balance the richness of the wedges.

Make Ahead and Storage

You can prepare these wedges up to a day ahead by cutting the potatoes and storing them submerged in cold water in the refrigerator. This prevents browning while maintaining their texture. When ready to cook, drain thoroughly and pat dry before proceeding with the recipe. Leftover wedges can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a 375°F oven for 10-15 minutes to restore crispiness.

Dietary Adaptations

For a dairy-free version, substitute nutritional yeast for the Parmesan cheese. It provides a similar savory flavor without the dairy. You can also make these wedges vegan by using this same substitution. For a lower-oil version, try using an oil sprayer to lightly coat the wedges instead of tossing them in oil, reducing the total amount needed by about half.

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Recipe FAQs

→ How do I ensure my sweet potato wedges get crispy?

For crispy wedges, make sure to cut them uniformly (about 1 inch thick), don't overcrowd the baking sheet, use high heat (425°F), and flip them halfway through baking. Patting the sweet potatoes dry before seasoning also helps remove excess moisture that can prevent crispiness.

→ Can I make these sweet potato wedges ahead of time?

While best served immediately for maximum crispness, you can prepare the wedges up to the seasoning step and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking. Already baked wedges can be reheated in a 375°F oven for 10 minutes to restore some crispness.

→ What dipping sauces pair well with garlic Parmesan sweet potato wedges?

These wedges pair beautifully with sriracha mayo, garlic aioli, honey mustard, ranch dressing, or even a simple Greek yogurt dip with herbs. For a sweet contrast, try maple syrup mixed with a touch of cinnamon.

→ Can I make these sweet potato wedges without Parmesan cheese?

Absolutely! For a dairy-free version, you can omit the Parmesan cheese entirely or substitute nutritional yeast for a similar savory flavor. Adjust the salt slightly since Parmesan contributes saltiness to the original recipe.

→ How do I know when my sweet potato wedges are fully cooked?

Sweet potato wedges are done when they're golden brown on the outside and easily pierced with a fork. The exterior should be slightly crisp while the interior remains tender. This typically takes 25-30 minutes at 425°F, but cooking times may vary based on your oven and the thickness of your wedges.

→ Can I use different seasonings for these sweet potato wedges?

Definitely! Try Italian seasoning, cajun spices, curry powder, or cinnamon and brown sugar for a sweeter version. The garlic and olive oil base works well with most flavor profiles, allowing you to customize based on your meal or preference.