Crispy on the outside, buttery tender inside, and bursting with garlicky, cheesy flavor—Garlic Parmesan Sweet Potatoes are the perfect balance of savory and sweet. These golden roasted cubes are tossed in a generous coating of melted butter, minced garlic, and grated parmesan, then finished with a sprinkle of fresh herbs. Whether you’re serving them as a standout side dish or munching on them as a snack, these potatoes are seriously addictive.
Their rich golden hue and crusty parmesan edge make them look like a restaurant-worthy plate, but the best part? They’re incredibly easy to make at home with simple ingredients and minimal prep. They’re also naturally gluten-free, making them a crowd-pleaser for nearly any occasion. Weeknight dinners, game-day spreads, or holiday gatherings—you’ll want to make a double batch.
What Kind of Sweet Potatoes Work Best?
For this recipe, orange-fleshed sweet potatoes (like Garnet or Jewel varieties) are ideal. They have a naturally creamy texture and a hint of caramel-like sweetness that pairs beautifully with the garlic and parmesan. Choose medium-sized potatoes that feel firm and smooth, with no soft spots or wrinkles.
Cutting them into evenly sized chunks ensures they roast uniformly, giving you that deliciously crisp exterior while keeping the insides melt-in-your-mouth soft.

Ingredients for the Garlic Parmesan Sweet Potato
Sweet Potatoes – The star of the show. They bring natural sweetness and a satisfying bite that pairs beautifully with savory toppings.
Olive Oil or Melted Butter – Helps crisp up the potatoes and adds rich, delicious flavor.
Fresh Garlic – Infuses the dish with bold garlicky flavor. Use freshly minced garlic for the best taste.
Parmesan Cheese – Adds a salty, nutty kick and creates those crispy edges as it bakes.
Fresh Parsley – Brings brightness and color to balance the richness of the dish.
Salt and Pepper – Essential for seasoning and enhancing all the other flavors.
Optional: Garlic Powder & Paprika – For an extra punch of flavor and warmth.
How To Make the Garlic Parmesan Sweet Potato
Step 1: Prep and Preheat
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking. This ensures easy cleanup and even roasting.
Step 2: Cube the Sweet Potatoes
Peel the sweet potatoes and cut them into 1 to 1.5-inch cubes. Try to keep the pieces uniform in size so they cook evenly. Place them in a large mixing bowl.
Step 3: Season Generously
To the bowl, add melted butter (or olive oil), minced fresh garlic, salt, pepper, and optional garlic powder and paprika. Toss the cubes thoroughly until each one is coated with the flavorful mixture.
Step 4: Roast to Perfection
Spread the seasoned sweet potato cubes out in a single layer on your prepared baking sheet. Bake for 30–35 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the edges are crispy and golden brown, and the centers are soft.
Step 5: Add the Parmesan & Herbs
Once the potatoes are out of the oven, sprinkle generously with grated parmesan cheese while they’re still hot so it melts slightly and sticks. Add a handful of freshly chopped parsley for that fresh, herby finish.
Step 6: Serve and Savor
Transfer to a serving plate, drizzle with any leftover garlic butter from the pan, and enjoy immediately while warm and crispy. These are especially good straight from the oven!
Serving and Storing Garlic Parmesan Sweet Potato
These garlic parmesan sweet potatoes are best served hot from the oven, when the edges are crisp and the cheese is melty. They’re a perfect side for roasted chicken, steak, or even a fresh salad. You can also serve them as an appetizer with a creamy dipping sauce like garlic aioli or sour cream and chive dip.
To store leftovers, let the potatoes cool completely and place them in an airtight container in the fridge. They’ll stay fresh for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer at 375°F for about 10 minutes to revive that crisp texture. Microwaving works too, but they’ll be softer.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I keep the sweet potatoes crispy?
Make sure the potatoes are spread out in a single layer on the baking sheet without overcrowding. This allows them to roast instead of steam. Using parchment paper and flipping them halfway through baking also helps with even browning.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
Absolutely! Swap out the butter for olive oil or a vegan butter alternative, and use a dairy-free parmesan-style cheese or nutritional yeast for that savory finish.
Do I have to peel the sweet potatoes?
Peeling is optional. If you love that rustic texture, give them a good scrub and leave the skin on. It adds a nice bite and extra fiber.
Can I air fry instead of oven roast?
Yes! Preheat your air fryer to 375°F and cook the seasoned sweet potato cubes in batches for about 15–18 minutes, shaking halfway through. Add the parmesan and herbs after air frying.
What other herbs can I use besides parsley?
Fresh thyme, rosemary, or even a sprinkle of chives can add delicious variations. Mix and match based on what you’re serving these with.
Are these good for meal prep?
Definitely. They reheat well in the oven or air fryer, making them a great make-ahead option for lunch bowls, dinner sides, or snack boxes.
Want More Side Dish Ideas with Bold Flavor?
If you loved these Garlic Parmesan Sweet Potatoes, you’re going to be obsessed with these other savory favorites from Life with Nina:
- Try the Garlic Herb Roasted Potatoes and Veggies for a wholesome and colorful tray bake.
- Whip up Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rotini in Parmesan Sauce for a hearty, satisfying dinner.
- Dive into the Garlic Butter Chicken with Creamy Ricotta Alfredo Pasta if you love creamy, cheesy combos.
- Don’t miss the comforting Funeral Potatoes: Creamy, Cheesy Comfort in Every Bite for a crowd-pleasing classic.
- And for another sweet-meets-savory treat, check out the Honey Butter Skillet Corn — buttery, golden, and irresistible.
Save This Pin + Share Your Results
📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest side dish board so you can revisit it any time.
And I’d love to hear how yours turned out! Did you use butter or olive oil? Add any fun spices like cayenne or Italian seasoning?
Comment below with your tweaks and experiences—sharing helps us all get creative in the kitchen.
Looking for more cozy, comforting recipes? Follow along on Pinterest @lifewithninarecipes where I post daily bites and inspiration from my kitchen.

Garlic Parmesan Sweet Potato
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Garlic Parmesan Sweet Potatoes are roasted to crispy golden perfection, tossed in garlic butter, and finished with melty parmesan and fresh parsley. Sweet, savory, and addictively good, they make the perfect side dish or snack for any meal or gathering. Naturally gluten-free and simple to prepare, they’re a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients
2 medium sweet potatoes
2 tablespoons melted butter or olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
1/4 teaspoon paprika (optional)
1/3 cup grated parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
2. Peel the sweet potatoes and cut them into 1 to 1.5-inch cubes. Place the cubes in a large mixing bowl.
3. Add melted butter (or olive oil), minced garlic, salt, pepper, and optional garlic powder and paprika to the bowl. Toss until the sweet potatoes are evenly coated.
4. Spread the cubes in a single layer on the baking sheet. Roast for 30–35 minutes, flipping halfway through, until crispy and golden on the edges and soft in the center.
5. Remove from the oven and immediately sprinkle with grated parmesan. Toss lightly so the cheese melts and sticks.
6. Finish with chopped fresh parsley and serve warm. Optional: drizzle with leftover garlic butter from the pan for extra flavor.
Notes
Be sure not to overcrowd the baking sheet—this helps the potatoes roast and crisp instead of steam.
For extra crispiness, use convection mode if your oven has it.
Grate your own parmesan for best texture and melt—it sticks better than pre-shredded varieties.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 330mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
Keywords: garlic sweet potato, parmesan sweet potato, oven roasted sweet potato



