I’ve always loved the comforting sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes, especially when life gets hectic and I need something quick yet satisfying. Honey Roasted Sweet Potatoes have become one of my favorite go-to sides because they come together in about 35 minutes and offer that perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and warm flavors. They’re simple, delicious, and always bring a little extra joy to the dinner table.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love These Honey Roasted Sweet Potatoes
- Easy to prepare: With just a handful of ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe fits perfectly into busy weeknights.
- Delicious flavor combo: The honey’s natural sweetness paired with bright lemon zest and juice creates a lively, tasty glaze.
- Versatile side or snack: Serve with grilled meats, toss into salads, or enjoy as a flavorful snack anytime.
- Crowd-pleaser: Loved by kids and adults alike, they make a cozy addition to any meal.
Equipment You’ll Need
- 9×13 inch baking sheet
- Aluminum foil or parchment paper (for lining the baking sheet)
- Large mixing bowl
- Small saucepan
- Knife and cutting board
- Measuring spoons and cups
- Stirring spoon or spatula
Ingredients for Honey Roasted Sweet Potatoes
- 2 pounds sweet potatoes (peeled and chopped)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (extra virgin)
- 2 tablespoons vegetable shortening (melted)
- 1 lemon (juice + zest)
- ¼ cup honey
Ingredient Notes
I recommend using extra virgin olive oil because it offers a fresh, subtle flavor along with health benefits from its natural antioxidants. The quality of honey can really change the taste of this dish; milder honeys like clover give a gentle sweetness, while wildflower honeys bring floral notes that deepen the flavor profile.
Step-by-Step Instructions with Photos
- Preheat oven and prepare baking sheet: Set your oven to 425° Fahrenheit. Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil and set it aside.
- Prepare the sweet potatoes: Peel and cut the sweet potatoes into bite-sized pieces. Place them in a large mixing bowl and season with salt.
- Make the honey-lemon glaze: Add vegetable shortening and olive oil to a small saucepan. Heat over medium until the shortening melts. Stir in lemon juice, lemon zest, and honey. Let it simmer gently for one minute on low heat. For other delicious sauces and glazes to elevate your dishes, check out our collection.
- Coat the sweet potatoes: Pour the honey-lemon mixture over the sweet potatoes. Toss everything thoroughly so each piece is evenly coated.
- Roast the sweet potatoes: Spread the coated potatoes on the baking sheet in a single layer. Roast for 25 minutes, then check for tenderness. Add cooking time if necessary until they’re fork-tender and caramelized.
Tips for Perfectly Roasted Honey Roasted Sweet Potatoes
To avoid burning, you can reduce the temperature slightly and extend the cooking time. Flip the sweet potatoes halfway through roasting to ensure even cooking. Avoid overcrowding the pan; too many pieces can steam instead of roast, causing sogginess. Look for tender centers and slightly crisp edges to know they’re ready. For other tips and tricks on achieving perfectly roasted sweet potatoes, check out our detailed guide.
Sweet Potato Varieties
Garnet sweet potatoes are moist and sweet, ideal for roasting. Jewel varieties are firmer with a balanced sweetness. Japanese sweet potatoes are drier and less sweet, which gives a different texture and flavor but still works beautifully when roasted.
Honey Options
- Clover honey: Mild and floral, perfect for a delicate sweetness.
- Wildflower honey: Richer and more complex, adds floral undertones.
- Buckwheat honey: Bold and earthy, for a deeper, molasses-like flavor that changes the character of the glaze.
Variations on Honey Roasted Sweet Potatoes
| Variation | Description |
|---|---|
| Spicy Sweet Potato | Add 1/2 teaspoon of chili powder and a pinch of cayenne pepper to the honey mixture. |
| Herb Roasted | Toss with fresh rosemary and thyme before roasting. |
| Sweet Potato Medley | Roast with Brussels sprouts and red onion for a colorful and flavorful side dish. |
| Vegan Sweet Potato | Substitute honey with maple syrup. |
Serving Suggestions
These sweet potatoes make a fantastic side alongside grilled chicken or pork. For more dinner ideas and main course inspiration, explore our full collection of recipes. You can also add them to fresh salads or warm grain bowls for added texture and sweetness. Leftovers work great tucked into wraps or even on top of toast with a sprinkle of feta.
Health Benefits of Sweet Potatoes
Sweet potatoes are rich in vitamin A, supporting eye health, and they provide a good source of dietary fiber, which helps digestion. Honey adds a natural sweetness and contains antioxidants, giving this dish both nutritional value and flavor.
Storing and Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, warm them in the oven at 350° Fahrenheit for 10 minutes to retain crispness, or microwave briefly if you’re short on time. You can also reheat them in a skillet over medium heat for a nicely toasted texture.
Sweet Potatoes vs. Yams
Sweet potatoes and yams are often mislabeled, but they are different vegetables. Yams are starchier and more fibrous, usually native to Africa and Asia. Sweet potatoes are sweeter and moister. For this recipe, sweet potatoes are best, providing the ideal texture and flavor.
Amazing Honey Roasted Sweet Potatoes
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Set your oven to 425° Fahrenheit. Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil and set it aside.
- Peel and cut the sweet potatoes into bite-sized pieces. Place them in a large mixing bowl and season with salt.
- Add vegetable shortening and olive oil to a small saucepan. Heat over medium until the shortening melts. Stir in lemon juice, lemon zest, and honey. Let it simmer gently for one minute on low heat.
- Pour the honey-lemon mixture over the sweet potatoes. Toss everything thoroughly so each piece is evenly coated.
- Spread the coated potatoes on the baking sheet in a single layer. Roast for 25 minutes, then check for tenderness. Add cooking time if necessary until they’re fork-tender and caramelized.
Notes
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen sweet potatoes?
Yes, but thaw and pat dry them first for best roasting results.
Can I add other vegetables to the roasting pan?
Absolutely! Root vegetables like carrots or parsnips roast well alongside sweet potatoes.
How long will the roasted sweet potatoes last?
Store in the fridge for up to 4 days in an airtight container.
Can I use maple syrup instead of honey?
Yes, maple syrup makes a great vegan alternative with a different but delicious flavor.
What is the best way to peel sweet potatoes?
Use a sturdy vegetable peeler or a small knife to carefully remove the skin before chopping.
Conclusion
Honey Roasted Sweet Potatoes are a simple, flavorful side that fits right into busy weeknight routines. The blend of honey and lemon turns ordinary sweet potatoes into something special with very little fuss. I’d love to hear how yours turn out — leave a comment, share your twists, or ask any questions. Cooking doesn’t have to be stressful, and together we can make every meal comforting and joyful.
