Get ready for a fun twist on sweet potatoes! These crispy smashed sweet potatoes are simple to make and pack a tasty punch. You just boil, smash, and bake them until golden and crunchy!
I love serving these at dinner because everyone enjoys getting their hands on those crispy edges. Plus, they’re a hit with kids and adults alike—who can resist a little crunch? 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Sweet Potatoes: They are the star of this dish! Going for large sweet potatoes is ideal for smashing. If you’re in a pinch, you can substitute with regular potatoes or even butternut squash for a different flavor.
Olive Oil: This helps achieve that crispy texture. If you’re out of olive oil, try avocado oil or melted coconut oil instead; they’ll give you great results too.
Garlic Powder: It adds a wonderful flavor. If you prefer, fresh garlic minced finely can work well. Just use about a clove or two instead.
Smoked Paprika: This is optional but adds a nice smoky flavor. If you don’t have it, regular paprika or even cayenne pepper can give a different but tasty kick!
Greek Yogurt: It gives a creamy dip. Plain yogurt, sour cream, or even cashew cream can be used for a similar texture.
How Can I Ensure My Sweet Potatoes are Crispy?
For perfectly crispy smashed sweet potatoes, a few tips will really help. The key is to bake them twice: first until tender, then again after smashing. Here’s how:
- First, create even thickness by smashing each round to about 1/2 inch. This helps them cook evenly.
- Make sure to space them out on the baking sheet; they shouldn’t touch. This allows hot air to circulate and crisp them up.
- Drizzling olive oil is essential—don’t skimp! It helps with browning and adds richness.
- Bake until golden brown, as everyone’s oven can vary, so keep an eye on them.
How to Make Crispy Smashed Sweet Potatoes?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Sweet Potatoes:
- 2 large sweet potatoes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- Fresh thyme leaves for garnish
For the Dipping Sauce:
- 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- Salt to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and around 1 hour to cook, including baking time. You’ll have crispy and delicious smashed sweet potatoes ready to enjoy in about 1 hour and 10 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
First, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). While the oven is heating up, wash and scrub the sweet potatoes under running water to clean them well. Use a fork to pierce each sweet potato several times—this helps them cook evenly. Place the pierced sweet potatoes on a baking sheet and bake them for about 45 to 50 minutes, or until they feel tender when poked with a knife. Yum!
2. Slice and Smash:
Once the sweet potatoes are done, let them cool slightly for about 10 minutes. This will make them easier to handle. Carefully peel the sweet potatoes with your hands or a knife, and then slice them into thick rounds, about 1 inch thick. Arrange the sweet potato rounds on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Now comes the fun part—using the bottom of a glass or a fork, gently smash each round until they are about 1/2 inch thick!
3. Season and Bake Again:
After smashing, drizzle olive oil over all the sweet potatoes, and sprinkle with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika if you’re using it. Toss them a little to make sure they’re nicely coated. Now, pop the baking sheet back in the oven and bake for an additional 20 to 25 minutes, or until the edges are crispy and golden-brown. Your kitchen will smell amazing!
4. Make the Dipping Sauce:
While the sweet potatoes are baking, let’s make a tasty dipping sauce. In a small bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, honey, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt. Mix everything together until it’s smooth and creamy. This sauce will be the perfect complement to your sweet potatoes!
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Once your crispy smashed sweet potatoes are done, take them out of the oven and sprinkle fresh thyme leaves on top for a nice touch! Serve them warm alongside your honey yogurt dipping sauce. Dive in and enjoy your delicious dish!
Can I Use Other Types of Potatoes?
Absolutely! While sweet potatoes are recommended for their natural sweetness, you can also use regular potatoes, such as Yukon Gold or red potatoes. Keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly, so just ensure they’re tender when pierced with a knife!
How Should I Store Leftover Smashed Sweet Potatoes?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them on a baking sheet and warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through and crispy. A quick drizzle of olive oil can help revive their crispiness!
Can I Make the Dipping Sauce in Advance?
Yes, you can! The honey yogurt dipping sauce can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to a week. Just give it a good stir before serving, as it may thicken slightly in the fridge.
What Can I Substitute for Greek Yogurt in the Dipping Sauce?
If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, you can substitute Greek yogurt with a plant-based yogurt like almond or coconut yogurt. For a tangy flavor, you could also use sour cream or cottage cheese if you have those on hand!
