Save The first time I made these Cajun roasted sweet potatoes was on a rainy Tuesday when I needed something to brighten up a simple dinner. The smoky spices hitting the hot oven filled the whole apartment with this incredible warmth that made everyone wander into the kitchen.
I brought these to a friends backyard barbecue last summer, and honestly, they were the first thing to disappear. People kept asking what I put on them, and the best part was how simple the answer was.
Ingredients
- Sweet potatoes: Two large ones give you enough for four people, and slicing them into half inch rounds means they cook through while getting those gorgeous crispy edges
- Olive oil: Two tablespoons helps the spices stick and promotes even browning in that high heat
- Cajun seasoning: One and a half teaspoons brings that signature kick, but taste your blend first since some brands run hotter than others
- Smoked paprika: Half a teaspoon adds this deep, campfire flavor that makes people think you spent way more effort on these than you actually did
- Garlic and onion powder: These savory basics round out the flavor profile so every bite tastes complete
- Dried thyme: Just a quarter teaspoon adds this earthy, herbal note that balances all the heat
- Salt and black pepper: Half a teaspoon of salt and a quarter teaspoon of pepper make all those spices pop
- Cayenne pepper: A tiny pinch if you like to live dangerously, but totally optional if you want to keep things family friendly
- Fresh parsley: Two tablespoons chopped adds this fresh, green finish that makes the plate look like you actually tried
- Lemon wedges: Serving these on the side lets people add their own bright tangy note if they want
Instructions
- Get your oven ready:
- Preheat to 220 degrees Celsius and line a baking sheet with parchment paper so cleanup becomes basically nothing
- Coat the potatoes:
- Toss those sweet potato slices in olive oil until every piece is glistening, and take your time here because even coverage means even seasoning
- Mix your spice blend:
- Combine all those seasonings in a small bowl so you can distribute them evenly instead of dumping everything on one potato
- Season everything:
- Sprinkle the spice mixture over the oiled potatoes and toss them again until they are wearing that beautiful red coating
- Arrange for success:
- Lay the slices in a single layer on your prepared baking sheet, giving them room to breathe so they actually crisp up instead of steam
- Start the roast:
- Slide them into the hot oven for 15 minutes to get that initial browning going
- Flip and finish:
- Turn each slice over and roast for another 12 to 15 minutes until the edges are golden and slightly crispy
- Finish and serve:
- Transfer everything to a platter, scatter parsley on top, and set out those lemon wedges like you are your own restaurant
Save These became my go to for meal prep Sundays because they reheat beautifully and somehow taste even better the next day when those spices have had more time to settle in.
Making Them Your Own
The beauty of this recipe is how adaptable it is. Sometimes I will add a tablespoon of maple syrup to the oil before tossing if I want that sweet and spicy thing going on, especially when serving them alongside something savory like black beans.
Perfect Pairings
These potatoes are incredibly versatile on the plate. They are perfect alongside grilled chicken or fish, but honestly, I have eaten them as a main dish with a simple green salad more times than I care to admit.
Storage And Reheating
Leftovers keep well in an airtight container for up to four days. Reheat them in a 200 degree Celsius oven for about 10 minutes to bring back that crispy texture, or just eat them cold which I have definitely done while standing in front of the fridge at midnight.
- Air fryers work amazing for reheating and make them even crispier than the first time around
- Do not microwave them unless you want sad, soft potatoes
- Double the batch if you are feeding a crowd because they will go fast
Save These roasted sweet potatoes have become one of those recipes I can make without even thinking, the kind that feels like home no matter what else is happening in the world.
Recipe FAQs
- → What is the best way to slice sweet potatoes for even cooking?
Peeling and slicing sweet potatoes into 1/2-inch rounds ensures uniform roasting and a perfect balance between tender interior and crispy edges.
- → Can I adjust the spice level of the Cajun seasoning?
Yes, increase or reduce the cayenne pepper to control the heat according to your preference without compromising the flavor balance.
- → How do I achieve extra crispiness on the sweet potato slices?
After roasting, briefly broil the slices for 2-3 minutes to add a crunchy finish while keeping the inside soft and tender.
- → What sides pair well with these Cajun-spiced potatoes?
These vibrant potatoes complement grilled meats, burgers, or can be enjoyed as a spiced snack alongside fresh salads.
- → Are these sweet potatoes suitable for special diets?
Yes, they are vegan and gluten-free, making them suitable for a variety of dietary preferences without common allergens.