If you’re looking to elevate your weeknight dinners with a dish that’s bursting with flavor and comfort, look no further than Garlic Butter Roasted Sweet Potatoes. This recipe delivers perfectly tender sweet potatoes glazed in rich garlic butter, with hints of fresh herbs and a subtle kick of pepper. It’s a simple yet irresistible side dish that transforms humble ingredients into something truly special. Every bite offers a wonderful balance of sweetness, buttery richness, and savory garlic, making it a favorite to come back to time and again.

Garlic Butter Roasted Sweet Potatoes Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are simple pantry staples, but each one plays a crucial role in building the flavor and texture of your Garlic Butter Roasted Sweet Potatoes. From the natural sweetness of the potatoes to the fragrant garlic and silky butter, every element works together to create that crave-worthy roast.

Sweet potatoes (3 pounds): Choose firm, bright orange sweet potatoes for the best sweetness and texture.
Olive oil (1/4 cup): Adds a smooth richness and helps to crisp the edges beautifully.
Unsalted butter (2 tablespoons, melted): Brings a luscious, creamy depth that complements the garlic perfectly.
Kosher salt (2 teaspoons): Enhances all the flavors without overpowering the natural sweetness.
Coarse ground black pepper (1 teaspoon): Adds a gentle warmth and complexity.
Garlic cloves (8, minced): The star ingredient that infuses every piece with irresistible aroma and bold flavor.
Fresh parsley (1/4 cup, minced): A fresh pop of color and a bright herbal note to finish the dish.

How to Make Garlic Butter Roasted Sweet Potatoes

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Begin by heating your oven to 400 degrees. While it warms, peel your sweet potatoes and slice them into evenly sized 1-inch thick slices. This size ensures they cook through evenly and develop that lovely soft inside with a hint of crispness outside.

Step 2: Toss in the Garlic Butter Mixture

Place the sweet potato slices in a large bowl, then add the olive oil, melted butter, kosher salt, black pepper, and minced garlic. Make sure to toss everything thoroughly so every slice is coated in that flavorful garlic butter sauce—this step is key as it infuses each potato with rich, savory notes.

Step 3: Roast to Perfection

Spread the coated sweet potatoes out on a sheet pan in a single layer, allowing them space to crisp rather than steam. Roast them for 30 minutes, then use a spatula to flip each piece. Continue roasting for another 20 minutes until the edges turn golden brown and the centers are tender and luscious. The roasting process caramelizes the natural sugars in the sweet potatoes, making this dish simply addictive.

Step 4: Finish with Freshness

Once out of the oven, toss the sweet potatoes with the fresh minced parsley and, if you like, a light drizzle of extra olive oil for added richness and shine. This final touch not only adds a burst of vibrant green color but also freshens up the flavor beautifully.

How to Serve Garlic Butter Roasted Sweet Potatoes

Garnishes

Sprinkling freshly chopped parsley is a classic way to brighten this dish, but you can also add a little crumbled feta or toasted pine nuts for texture and a flavor twist. A sprinkle of smoked paprika or chili flakes works wonders if you want an extra layer of warmth and color.

Side Dishes

This side pairs wonderfully with roasted meats like chicken or pork, as the sweet, garlicky potatoes complement savory, umami-rich mains beautifully. They’re also fantastic alongside a fresh green salad or a simple quinoa pilaf for a balanced vegetarian meal.

Creative Ways to Present

For a dinner party, present the Garlic Butter Roasted Sweet Potatoes in a rustic wooden bowl with sprigs of parsley on top for a natural look. Or layer them in a casserole dish with some caramelized onions and goat cheese, then broil briefly for a playful, comforting twist on the classic recipe.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Cool any leftover roasted sweet potatoes completely before transferring them to an airtight container. They keep well in the fridge for up to 4 days, making a convenient ready-made side for busy evenings.

Freezing

If you want to keep these around longer, you can freeze the cooked garlic butter sweet potatoes in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. To avoid sogginess when thawed, it’s best to freeze in a single layer on a baking sheet first, then transfer to a container.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers in a preheated oven at 350 degrees to help maintain their crispy edges and tender insides. Avoid microwaving if you want to preserve that wonderful texture, but if you’re in a hurry, a quick zap in the microwave works in a pinch.

FAQs

Can I use regular potatoes instead of sweet potatoes?

Absolutely! While sweet potatoes lend a natural sweetness that’s hard to beat, russet or Yukon gold potatoes will also work beautifully with garlic butter roasting. Just adjust cooking times to ensure they become tender.

Is it necessary to peel the sweet potatoes?

Peeling is recommended here for the best texture and smooth coating of garlic butter. However, if you prefer a more rustic feel and don’t mind a bit of chew, you can leave the skins on after washing them thoroughly.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

Yes, easy! Simply replace the unsalted butter with a plant-based butter or additional olive oil to keep that luscious richness. The garlic and herbs will still shine through beautifully.

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

Make sure to use enough olive oil and butter to coat the slices well before roasting. Also, spreading them out in a single layer with some space between pieces helps them roast without sticking and ensures crisp edges.

Can I add other herbs or spices?

Definitely! Rosemary, thyme, or even a sprinkle of smoked paprika or cayenne pepper work wonderfully well with Garlic Butter Roasted Sweet Potatoes for new flavor experiences.

Final Thoughts

I hope you’re as excited as I am to try this Garlic Butter Roasted Sweet Potatoes recipe. It’s an incredibly simple way to bring comfort, flavor, and that little chef’s magic to your table. Perfectly tender, golden, and bursting with garlic goodness, this dish will quickly become a cherished staple in your meal rotation. Give it a go, and prepare to fall in love with sweet potatoes all over again!