Garlic Butter Smashed Sweet Potatoes

The Ultimate Side Dish

If you’re looking for a side dish that’s crispy on the outside, buttery and soft on the inside, and bursting with flavor, these Garlic Butter Smashed Sweet Potatoes are a must-try! Perfect for weeknight dinners, holiday spreads, or meal prepping, this recipe takes sweet potatoes to the next level.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Incredibly Easy to Make – Just boil, smash, season, and bake.
  • Perfect Balance of Sweet & Savory – The natural sweetness of the potatoes contrasts beautifully with the rich, garlicky butter and savory Parmesan cheese.
  • Versatile & Customizable – You can add different herbs, cheeses, or spices to make it your own.
  • Great for Meal Prep – These store well, making them a fantastic option for busy weeks.

Ingredients You’ll Need

  • 2-3 large sweet potatoes
  • 2 tbsp butter, melted
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
  • ½ tsp salt
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese

Kitchen Equipment Needed

  • Large pot
  • Sharp knife
  • Cutting board
  • Baking sheet
  • Fork or potato masher
  • Small mixing bowl

Step-by-Step Directions

Step 1: Prep the Sweet Potatoes

Trim the ends off the sweet potatoes, then cut each potato into 2-inch thick rounds.

Step 2: Boil Until Fork-Tender

Place the sweet potato rounds into a large pot filled with water and bring it to a boil over high heat. Let them cook for 20-25 minutes, or until they are soft enough to pierce easily with a fork.

Step 3: Preheat & Prep the Baking Sheet

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Drain the potatoes and arrange them on a large baking sheet brushed with 1 tablespoon of olive oil.

Step 4: Smash & Season

Use a fork or potato masher to gently smash each sweet potato round. In a small bowl, mix the melted butter, minced garlic, and chopped parsley, then spoon the mixture over each smashed potato.

Step 5: Add Cheese & Bake

Sprinkle the potatoes with salt, black pepper, and Parmesan cheese. Bake for 15-18 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy on the bottom.

Step 6: Serve & Enjoy

Let them cool slightly before serving. Pair with your favorite main dish or enjoy them as a snack!

Expert Tips & Variations

1. Want Extra Crispy Potatoes?

For even crispier edges, brush a little more olive oil on the baking sheet before adding the sweet potatoes. You can also broil them for an extra 2-3 minutes at the end.

2. Cheese Variations

Not a fan of Parmesan? Try using cheddar, feta, or crumbled goat cheese for a different flavor.

3. Spice it Up

Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or smoked paprika for a hint of heat.

4. Make it Vegan

Swap the butter for vegan butter or olive oil, and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan.

Storing & Reheating Leftovers

If you have leftovers (which is rare because they’re so delicious!), here’s how to store them:

  • Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
  • Freezer: Flash freeze them on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.
  • Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for 10-12 minutes to restore crispiness.

What to Serve with Garlic Butter Smashed Sweet Potatoes

These pair beautifully with:

  • Grilled Chicken or Steak – The sweetness of the potatoes balances out the smoky, savory flavors.
  • Roasted Vegetables – Try serving them alongside roasted Brussels sprouts or asparagus.
  • A Fresh Green Salad – A light, lemony arugula salad adds a refreshing contrast.

FAQ

Can I use regular potatoes instead of sweet potatoes?

Yes! Yukon Gold or baby potatoes work great, but they won’t have the same sweet-savory contrast.

Can I prep these ahead of time?

Absolutely. Boil and smash the potatoes ahead of time, then refrigerate them. When ready to serve, simply season and bake.

Can I make these in an air fryer?

Yes! Cook them at 375°F (190°C) for about 12-15 minutes, checking for crispiness.

Final Thoughts & Call to Action

Garlic Butter Smashed Sweet Potatoes are a delicious, easy, and crowd-pleasing dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re making them for a holiday meal or just a quick side dish, they’ll quickly become a favorite.

If you loved this recipe, share it with your friends and family! Don’t forget to subscribe to our blog for more tasty recipes and cooking tips. Happy cooking! 🍠✨

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