These hot honey sweet potatoes are a tasty mix of sweet and spicy! Roasted to perfection, they get drizzled with sticky hot honey, making them a yummy side dish.
Whenever I make them, I can’t help but sneak a few bites straight off the tray. Who knew sweet potatoes could pack such a punch? They are super easy to whip up, too!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Sweet Potatoes: These are the star of the dish! Make sure to choose medium-sized sweet potatoes. You might also find Japanese sweet potatoes or yams, which are both great alternatives.
Olive Oil: I love using olive oil for its flavor and health benefits. If you don’t have it, avocado oil or melted coconut oil can also work well.
Smoked Paprika: This adds a lovely smoky flavor. You can use regular paprika if you prefer less smokiness, or even try a bit of chili powder for some heat.
Hot Honey: While hot honey adds a unique kick, you can mix regular honey with a pinch of cayenne or red pepper flakes for a similar effect. Adjust to your liking!
Pecans: To toast the pecans, I recommend doing it in a dry skillet for about 5 minutes over medium heat. If you prefer a different nut, walnuts or almonds are great substitutes.
How Do You Ensure the Sweet Potatoes Are Perfectly Roasted?
The key to perfectly roasted sweet potatoes lies in the preparation and cooking method. Here are some tips to get them just right:
- Cut sweet potatoes into even rounds, about 1/4-inch thick, for consistent cooking.
- Toss the sweet potatoes well with the olive oil and spices to coat every piece thoroughly.
- Spread them in a single layer on the baking sheet. This promotes even roasting without steaming.
- Flip them halfway through cooking to ensure they caramelize nicely on all sides.
Follow these steps, and you’ll have deliciously tender and caramelized sweet potatoes every time!
How to Make Hot Honey Sweet Potatoes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Sweet Potatoes:
- 4 medium sweet potatoes, sliced into 1/4-inch rounds
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Topping:
- 1/2 cup pecans, toasted
- 1/4 cup hot honey (or honey mixed with a pinch of cayenne pepper)
- Fresh thyme leaves for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and 25-30 minutes to roast the sweet potatoes. So, you’ll spend about 40 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a tasty side dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This will ensure that your sweet potatoes roast perfectly. Don’t forget to line a baking sheet with parchment paper. It makes cleanup easier!
2. Prepare the Sweet Potatoes:
In a large bowl, combine the sweet potato rounds with olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Use your hands or a spoon to toss everything together until the sweet potatoes are nicely coated with the oil and spices. It should look colorful and tasty!
3. Roast the Sweet Potatoes:
Spread the sweet potatoes out evenly on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer. It’s important they’re not stacked; this way, they’ll cook evenly. Now, pop them into the oven and roast for 25-30 minutes. Remember to flip them halfway through for the best caramelization!
4. Add the Finishing Touches:
Once the sweet potatoes are tender and golden, take them out of the oven and transfer them to a serving platter. Drizzle the hot honey all over them, letting it coat each piece with sweetness and a hint of spice. Sprinkle the toasted pecans on top for that delightful crunch, and add fresh thyme leaves for a pop of flavor if you like.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Enjoy your warm, sweet, and spicy hot honey sweet potatoes! They make a fantastic dish for any occasion, and they’re sure to impress your family and friends!
Can I Use Regular Potatoes Instead of Sweet Potatoes?
Absolutely! You can substitute regular potatoes, but keep in mind they will have a different flavor profile and texture. You may need to adjust the cooking time slightly, as regular potatoes often take longer to become tender.
What If I Don’t Have Hot Honey?
No worries! You can easily make your own hot honey by mixing regular honey with a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to taste. Start with a small amount, then add more if you want to increase the heat!
How to Store Leftover Hot Honey Sweet Potatoes?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to eat them again, simply reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through.
Can I Add Other Veggies to This Recipe?
Definitely! Feel free to mix in other veggies like Brussels sprouts, carrots, or bell peppers. Just be sure to cut them into similar sizes as the sweet potatoes for even cooking, and keep an eye on the roasting time, as different veggies may cook at different rates.
