Caramelized Sweet Potato Halves

Yes, it’s that recipe you have been seeing all over the internet (the one with the crispy, golden-brown cut sides), and here is how I make them because sweet potatoes are a staple in my kitchen.

All you need is sweet potatoes, a little oil, and salt. That’s it. Roast them cut side down and let the oven do its thing. The edges get crispy, the cut sides caramelize, and the insides turn soft and sweet.

Make extra while you’re at it. They’re filling, nutritious, and easy to reheat during the week for a snack or a side dish. They satisfy your sweet tooth in a way you can feel really good about and whether they’re a side dish or the main event, they will most likely be the star of your plate because they’re just so pretty. I often reheat and top mine with protein like yogurt or cottage cheese for an easy lunch or snack the next day. The hardest part of this recipe is cutting the potatoes lengthwise so use a sharp knife and be careful mama!

Laura Burak MS, RDN

Caramelized Sweet Potato Halves

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Servings: 4 (1/2 potato per serving)

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 2 large sweet potatoes halved lengthwise
• 1 tbsp coconut oil
• 8 turns crunchy sea salt about one turn for each side of each half

Equipment

• 1 sharp knife
• 1 piece parchment paper
• 1 sheet pan
• 1 cutting board

Method

 

1. Preheat oven to 400 degrees F on a bake or roast setting.
2. Wash and dry the potatoes well.
3. Carefully cut the potatoes in half lengthwise using a sharp knife.
4. Rub each half with coconut oil on all sides.
5. Hit each half with a turn of crunchy sea salt on both sides.
6. Place potatoes cut side down on parchment covered sheet pan.
7. Place into the oven for at least 40 minutes or until soft.
8. Option to enjoy as is or add butter, maple syrup and cinnamon for extra creaminess and sweetness.

Notes

You can use another oil like olive or avocado, but I think coconut works best and the flavor profile tastes great with the sweetness of the potato.

This recipe calls for 2 large sweet potatoes with a serving of one sweet potato half per person. Each serving of one potato half has an estimated ~100 calories, ~3 grams of fiber and ~1.5 grams of protein.