why make this recipe
Baked sweet potatoes are easy, healthy, and warm. They need little work and give big flavor. This recipe uses simple ingredients you likely have at home. You can pair them with other dishes or eat them alone. Try a sauce idea like sweet onion sauce for a new taste.
introduction
This baked sweet potato recipe is simple and clear. You roast the potatoes until soft. Then you add toppings you like. The method works for busy nights or a quiet weekend. If you want a sweet or savory twist, add toppings later. For an extra sauce idea, see this sauce.
how to make Baked Sweet Potatoes
Follow the steps below. They are easy and direct.
Ingredients :
- 4 medium sweet potatoes (about 2 lbs)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp sea salt
- ½ tsp freshly ground black pepper
- Optional toppings: maple syrup, cinnamon, Greek yogurt, avocado
Directions :
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Wash and dry the sweet potatoes thoroughly.
- Poke several holes in each potato with a fork to allow steam to escape.
- Drizzle olive oil over each potato and massage it in gently.
- Sprinkle salt and pepper evenly over the oiled potatoes.
- Place on a baking sheet and roast for 45-60 minutes until tender when pierced with a fork.
- Let cool slightly before serving.
- Slice open and add desired toppings.

For another topping idea, you can try a sweet sauce like sweet onion sauce.
how to serve Baked Sweet Potatoes
Serve them hot. Slice them open and add butter, maple syrup, or cinnamon for a sweet side. For savory, add Greek yogurt, avocado, or a scoop of chili. They pair well with grilled meat, salad, or a bowl of soup.
how to store Baked Sweet Potatoes
Cool the potatoes fully. Put them in an airtight container. Store in the fridge for up to 4 days. To reheat, warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10–15 minutes or microwave until hot.
tips to make Baked Sweet Potatoes
- Pick sweet potatoes that feel firm and have no big soft spots.
- Wash well to remove dirt.
- Prick the skin so steam can escape and they do not burst.
- Rub oil on the skin for a crisp outside.
- Check with a fork; it should go in easily.
- For faster cooking, cut potatoes in half and roast cut-side down. See a sauce idea here: sweet onion sauce.
variation (if any)
- Twice-baked: scoop the inside, mix with cheese or herbs, then return and bake.
- Stuffed: fill with black beans, corn, and salsa for a hearty meal.
- Spiced: add smoked paprika, cumin, or chili flakes before roasting for heat.
FAQs
Q: How do I know when they are done?
A: Insert a fork. If it slides in easily, they are done.
Q: Can I bake them at a different temperature?
A: Yes. Lower heat (350°F/175°C) works but needs more time. Higher heat cooks faster but watch closely.
Q: Can I freeze baked sweet potatoes?
A: Yes. Cool, wrap well, and freeze up to 3 months. Thaw in fridge before reheating.
Q: Can I cook them in the microwave?
A: Yes. Microwave is faster but the skin will not be as crisp. Poke holes and cook on high in 3–6 minute bursts depending on size.
Conclusion
For another simple baked sweet potato idea and tips, see this recipe: Baked Sweet Potato – Recipes by Love and Lemons.
Print
Baked Sweet Potatoes
- Total Time: 70 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegan
Description
A simple and delicious recipe for roasted sweet potatoes that can be customized with various toppings for a sweet or savory treat.
Ingredients
- 4 medium sweet potatoes (about 2 lbs)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp sea salt
- ½ tsp freshly ground black pepper
- Optional toppings: maple syrup, cinnamon, Greek yogurt, avocado
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Wash and dry the sweet potatoes thoroughly.
- Poke several holes in each potato with a fork to allow steam to escape.
- Drizzle olive oil over each potato and massage it in gently.
- Sprinkle salt and pepper evenly over the oiled potatoes.
- Place on a baking sheet and roast for 45-60 minutes until tender when pierced with a fork.
- Let cool slightly before serving.
- Slice open and add desired toppings.
Notes
For a savory twist, add Greek yogurt or avocado. For a sweet twist, top with butter, maple syrup, or cinnamon.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 potato
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 420mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: baked sweet potatoes, healthy side dish, easy recipe, vegan recipe, sweet potato toppings