Introduction
These Maple Roasted Sweet Potatoes with Walnuts and Thyme are a perfect blend of sweet, savory, and nutty flavors that will make any meal feel festive. The tender, caramelized sweet potatoes pair beautifully with the rich maple syrup, crunchy walnuts, and aromatic thyme. Whether you’re serving these as a side dish for a cozy weeknight dinner or a special holiday meal, they’re sure to impress. Plus, they’re easy to make and packed with seasonal flavors!
Why This Recipe is Perfect for You
If you’re looking for a simple yet flavorful side dish, these Maple Roasted Sweet Potatoes are perfect. The combination of buttery sweet potatoes, maple syrup, and cinnamon brings out the natural sweetness of the potatoes, while the walnuts and thyme add a satisfying crunch and herbal freshness. It’s a comforting and versatile recipe that can complement a variety of mains, from roasted chicken to holiday turkey. And, with the optional addition of crumbled feta, this dish can take on a more savory edge for an extra flavor boost.
Ingredients
- 3 medium sweet potatoes, cleaned and cut into ½-inch thick rounds
- ⅓ cup melted unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon pepper
- ⅓ cup maple syrup + 2 tablespoons
- ⅓ cup chopped walnuts
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
- ½ teaspoon cinnamon
Directions
1. Prepare the Sweet Potatoes
Start by cleaning and cutting the sweet potatoes into ½-inch thick rounds. You can choose to leave the skin on for added texture and nutrients or peel them if you prefer a smoother bite.
2. Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F). This temperature is perfect for roasting, ensuring that the sweet potatoes get a crispy, caramelized exterior while staying soft and tender on the inside.
3. Season the Potatoes
In a large bowl (or ziplock bag), toss the sweet potato slices with the melted butter, 1 teaspoon cinnamon, salt, and pepper until they are evenly coated. The butter adds richness, while the cinnamon enhances the natural sweetness of the potatoes.
4. Bake the Sweet Potatoes
Arrange the seasoned sweet potato slices in a single layer on a baking tray. Be sure to leave a little space between each slice to ensure they roast evenly, allowing the edges to caramelize rather than steam. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes are fork-tender. Cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of the slices.
5. Make the Maple-Walnut Topping
While the sweet potatoes are roasting, prepare the maple-walnut topping. In a small bowl, combine ⅓ cup maple syrup, chopped walnuts, ½ teaspoon cinnamon, and fresh thyme. This topping will add a crunchy, sweet, and savory layer to the potatoes, making them irresistible.
6. Finish the Sweet Potatoes
Once the sweet potatoes are tender, remove the tray from the oven. Spoon about 1 teaspoon of the maple-walnut mixture over each sweet potato slice. Return the tray to the oven and bake for an additional 8-10 minutes, or until the walnuts are toasted and the topping has caramelized. This final bake infuses the sweet potatoes with even more flavor and creates a crunchy, sticky topping.
7. Serve
Once done, serve the maple roasted sweet potatoes hot from the oven. For an extra layer of flavor, you can sprinkle crumbled feta on top. The salty tang of the feta pairs beautifully with the sweet and savory elements of the dish.
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- Large baking tray
- Small mixing bowl for the maple-walnut topping
- Knife for slicing sweet potatoes
- Mixing bowl or ziplock bag for tossing the potatoes in butter and seasoning
Tips and Shortcuts
- Peeling Tip: If you prefer the texture of peeled sweet potatoes, make sure to use a vegetable peeler for an easy and smooth peel.
- Time Saver: You can prep the sweet potatoes and make the maple-walnut topping ahead of time. Simply refrigerate them until you’re ready to bake.
- Extra Caramelization: For even crispier edges, you can broil the sweet potatoes for an additional 1-2 minutes after adding the maple-walnut topping. Keep an eye on them to avoid burning.
Recipe Swaps and Variations
- Nut-Free Version: If you’re allergic to nuts, you can substitute the walnuts with pumpkin seeds or sunflower seeds for a similar crunch.
- Different Sweeteners: You can swap out the maple syrup for honey or agave syrup if preferred, though the flavor profile will be slightly different.
- Herb Variations: If you don’t have thyme on hand, try using rosemary or sage for a more earthy flavor.
- Add Protein: To make this dish more substantial, serve it with roasted chicken, pork tenderloin, or a grilled tofu for a complete meal.
How to Store Leftovers
Store any leftover Maple Roasted Sweet Potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the potatoes on a baking tray and warm them in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10 minutes until heated through.
Food and Drink Pairings
These maple roasted sweet potatoes pair beautifully with a variety of dishes. Serve them alongside a roasted chicken, holiday turkey, or even a grilled steak. They also make a great vegetarian side dish for a more casual meal.
For drinks, pair this dish with a light white wine like Chardonnay or a crisp Rosé. The acidity of the wine will cut through the richness of the sweet potatoes and balance the sweetness of the maple syrup.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Can I use yams instead of sweet potatoes?
A: Yes, you can use yams for this recipe. They are slightly starchier than sweet potatoes, but the flavor will still be delicious with the maple and walnut topping.
Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A: Yes! You can prepare and roast the sweet potatoes ahead of time. Just add the maple-walnut topping before reheating in the oven to ensure they stay fresh and flavorful.
Q: Can I use dried thyme instead of fresh?
A: Yes, you can substitute dried thyme for fresh. Use about ½ teaspoon of dried thyme, as it is more concentrated than fresh herbs.
Indulge in gourmet dining at home with our Filet Mignon with Shrimp and Lobster Cream Sauce recipe.
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Maple Roasted Sweet Potatoes with Walnuts and Thyme
- Total Time: 45-50 minutes
Description
Enjoy the sweet and savory flavors of Maple Roasted Sweet Potatoes with Walnuts and Thyme—a perfect side dish for fall, packed with crunch and warmth!
Ingredients
Instructions
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35-40 minutes
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4 servings