These roasted sweet potato slices bake with brown sugar on top so they caramelize and become irresistibly delicious.
Sweet potatoes make a versatile side: they work as both a starch and a vegetable because they are packed with nutrition, so they pair easily with proteins like pork tenderloin or roast chicken for a complete meal. Roasting whole sweet potatoes is great, but it can take an hour. Sliced and roasted, they cook much faster while still delivering tender interiors and caramelized edges. Try this simple method next time you buy sweet potatoes—it’s quick, tasty, and likely to become a go-to side.
Why you’ll love this easy side dish:
- Fast – prep takes only 5–10 minutes
- Simple ingredients – an easy recipe with pantry staples
- Kid-friendly – the caramelized brown sugar appeals to picky eaters
Let’s get started! Here’s what you’ll need:
Ingredients:
Sweet potatoes – This recipe uses orange-fleshed varieties such as garnet yams.
Olive oil – You can substitute avocado oil, melted butter, or melted coconut oil if you prefer.
Sea salt – Table salt works fine too.
Cinnamon – Adds warmth and pairs well with the natural sweetness.
Brown sugar – Creates caramelized tops; maple syrup can be used as an alternative but will not caramelize the same way.
Equipment:
A baking sheet, cutting board, and a sharp knife are all you need. For easier cleanup, line the sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil.
How to make this delicious side dish:
Step 1: Slice sweet potatoes
Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Rinse the sweet potatoes and slice them into ½” thick rounds.
Step 2: Prepare on baking sheet
Lightly grease or spray a baking sheet. Arrange the sweet potato rounds in a single layer without overlapping. Drizzle lightly with olive oil, then sprinkle with salt and cinnamon. Finish by sprinkling brown sugar over the top—use about a tablespoon for the batch, adjusting to taste.
Step 3: Bake and broil
Bake on the top rack for 20 minutes. After baking, switch the oven to broil and broil 1–3 minutes to caramelize the brown sugar—watch closely, as broilers vary and the sugar can brown quickly. Remove when the slices are tender and the sugar is bubbling and slightly crisp. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Enjoy!
Variations
For babies: Omit the brown sugar. The natural sweetness of roasted sweet potato is ideal for little ones; cinnamon is usually fine once babies are around 6 months old.
Savory: Skip the cinnamon and brown sugar and season with garlic powder, rosemary, or Italian seasoning. Add chili powder and black pepper for heat.
Cheesy: After roasting, sprinkle with grated Parmesan for a savory, cheesy finish.
FAQ
Yes. Air fryers work well, though many baskets don’t broil and you may need to cook in batches. Reduce cook time to about 12–15 minutes, checking for tenderness.
No. Leaving the skin reduces prep time and becomes tender when cooked. If someone doesn’t like the skin, it can be peeled off after roasting.
Sweet potatoes are denser than regular potatoes, so they can be tougher to slice raw. If cutting is difficult, microwave a potato for a minute or two to soften it slightly before slicing.
Other kid-approved recipes you’ll love
- Crockpot Mashed Sweet Potatoes
- Easy Crescent Sandwiches
- Baked Feta Pasta
Enjoy!
I hope you try this recipe soon. If you love it, come back and leave a rating.
📖 Recipe
Ingredients
- 1.5 lb sweet potatoes
- 1.5 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F. Rinse and slice sweet potatoes into ½” rounds.
- Grease a baking sheet. Arrange slices in a single layer. Drizzle with oil, sprinkle with salt and cinnamon, then top with brown sugar.
- Bake on the top rack for 20 minutes. Switch to broil and broil 1–3 minutes until sugar bubbles and caramelizes.
Notes
Broil time varies by oven and how close the pan is to the broiler. For savory versions without sugar, broiling is not necessary.
Nutrition
Carbohydrates: 39 g
Protein: 3 g
Fat: 4 g
Fiber: 5 g
Sugar: 11 g
Nutrition information is an estimate. Use your preferred calculator for precise values based on the exact ingredients you use.