Maple Roasted Sweet Potato

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Craving a side dish that feels like a hug on a plate? Maple Roasted Sweet Potatoes are the golden, glossy answer. They bring together the warmth of oven caramelization with the deep richness of maple syrup—a perfect balance of savory and sweet that elevates any meal.

Whether you’re prepping for a cozy weeknight dinner or putting together a holiday spread, these tender rounds of sweet potato topped with maple-glazed walnuts and fresh thyme never disappoint. They’re beautiful to look at, even better to eat, and simple enough to become your new go-to comfort side.

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Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

• Sharp Chef’s Knife: For slicing your sweet potatoes evenly, which ensures uniform roasting.
• Cutting Board: Preferably non-slip for safer, smoother prep work.
• Large Mixing Bowl: To coat the potato slices in oil and maple syrup without making a mess.
• Baking Sheet + Parchment Paper: Ensures even heat distribution and prevents sticking for a clean caramelized finish.
• Spatula or Tongs: Useful for flipping the potatoes halfway through roasting.
• Small Saucepan: Needed to heat the maple glaze and toast the walnuts slightly, releasing their flavor.

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Ingredients for the Maple Roasted Sweet Potato

• Sweet Potatoes: The hero of the dish. Their natural sugars caramelize beautifully during roasting, making them soft and candy-like.
• Maple Syrup: Adds deep, earthy sweetness and helps create that irresistible glaze.
• Olive Oil: Promotes browning and helps carry the flavor across each slice.
• Salt: Enhances the sweetness and keeps the dish balanced.
• Ground Cinnamon: Adds cozy, warm spice that pairs perfectly with maple.
• Chopped Walnuts: Introduces a toasty crunch and nutty counterbalance to the sweet glaze.
• Fresh Thyme: Brings brightness and a herbal contrast to the richness of the dish.

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How To Make the Maple Roasted Sweet Potato

Step 1: Prep the Oven and Potatoes

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Wash and scrub the sweet potatoes well. Slice them into 1/2-inch thick rounds without peeling for extra texture and nutrients.

Step 2: Coat with Flavor

In a large mixing bowl, toss the sweet potato slices with olive oil, maple syrup, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. Make sure every slice is well coated.

Step 3: Arrange and Roast

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Lay the slices in a single layer, spacing them out to allow for crisp edges. Roast for 20 minutes, flip, then roast for another 15-20 minutes until caramelized and fork-tender.

Step 4: Glaze and Toast

While the potatoes roast, heat a small saucepan over medium-low heat. Add a bit of maple syrup and the chopped walnuts. Toast lightly until fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.

Step 5: Finish and Garnish

Remove the potatoes from the oven, transfer to a serving platter, and drizzle with the warm maple-walnut glaze. Sprinkle fresh thyme leaves over the top just before serving.

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How to Serve and Store Maple Roasted Sweet Potatoes

Serve your Maple Roasted Sweet Potatoes warm, fresh from the oven, when their edges are still crisp and the glaze is glossy. They’re excellent as a holiday side dish, paired with roasted turkey or glazed ham, but they also shine next to grilled vegetables, lentils, or simple chicken breasts on any weeknight.

For storing, place any leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days. To reheat, use the oven or toaster oven to revive that crispy caramelization – microwaving tends to soften the texture.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How do I prevent the sweet potatoes from sticking to the pan?

Using parchment paper or a silicone baking mat is key. It keeps the slices from sticking and helps with even roasting.

Can I use honey instead of maple syrup?

Yes, but the flavor will change slightly. Honey is more floral and less earthy, so the end result may taste a bit different but still delicious.

Should I peel the sweet potatoes?

Not necessarily. Leaving the skin on adds texture and nutrients. Just be sure to scrub them clean before slicing.

What if I don’t have fresh thyme?

Dried thyme can be used in a pinch, but use sparingly (about 1/3 the amount), or try fresh rosemary for a bolder flavor.

Can I make this ahead of time?

You can roast the sweet potatoes a few hours ahead and reheat them before serving. Wait to drizzle the glaze and thyme until just before serving for the best texture.

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Want More Sweet Side Dish Ideas?

You might also like the Slow Cooker Cracker Barrel Fried Apples, perfect for pairing with pork or roasted meats. For a savory contrast, the Best Mashed Potatoes Recipe delivers a silky, buttery classic.

Looking for something a little more unique? Try the Air Fried Potato Wedges—they’re crispy and satisfying without the need for deep-frying. Or go bold with the sweet-savory combo in Sweet Baby Ray’s Crockpot Chicken, served alongside these maple potatoes.

Finish off your meal with a cozy slice of Cinnamon Donut Bread for a full comfort-food experience.

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If you try it, I’d love to know how it turned out. Did you go heavy on the thyme? Did you toast your nuts longer for extra crunch? Leave a comment below or share your version with me.

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