Few side dishes strike the perfect balance between healthy, cozy, and delicious like roasted sweet potato wedges with garlic and herbs. With their naturally caramelized sweetness, crisp edges, and fragrant herb coating, these wedges are a celebration of simple, wholesome ingredients done right. Whether served alongside roast chicken, a hearty salad, or part of your Thanksgiving table, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
Sweet potatoes transform beautifully in the oven — their natural sugars intensify, while the garlic and herbs infuse each bite with savory aroma. The result is a dish that’s both rustic and elegant, requiring only a handful of pantry ingredients.
This detailed recipe and guide will walk you through everything: choosing the right potatoes, cutting perfect wedges, balancing seasonings, and baking them to golden crisp perfection.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
-
Crispy exterior, soft interior: High-temperature roasting ensures the perfect texture contrast.
-
Healthy yet indulgent: Naturally gluten-free, rich in vitamins, and roasted with heart-healthy olive oil.
-
Versatile side dish: Complements everything from grilled meats to plant-based mains.
-
Simple ingredients, big flavor: Garlic, rosemary, and thyme bring depth and fragrance without overpowering.
-
Meal prep friendly: Reheats well and stays crisp when done right.
Ingredients
For 4 servings:
-
2 large sweet potatoes (about 1 lb / 450g each)
-
2½ tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
-
3 cloves garlic, finely minced
-
1 teaspoon fresh rosemary, chopped (or ½ teaspoon dried)
-
1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (or ½ teaspoon dried thyme)
-
½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional for color and flavor)
-
½ teaspoon sea salt, or to taste
-
¼ teaspoon black pepper
-
Optional garnish: chopped parsley or chives for serving
How to Choose the Best Sweet Potatoes
Not all sweet potatoes roast the same way. Look for:
-
Firm, unblemished skin: Avoid bruises or soft spots.
-
Medium size: Smaller potatoes make thinner wedges that crisp more evenly.
-
Orange-fleshed varieties: These tend to be sweeter and caramelize beautifully.
Preparation Steps
1. Preheat the oven
Set your oven to 425°F (220°C). A hot oven is crucial for achieving crispy edges without drying out the centers.
2. Prepare your baking sheet
Line a large rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly oil it to prevent sticking. If using a metal pan, avoid overcrowding — air circulation equals crispiness.
3. Cut the sweet potatoes into wedges
-
Wash and scrub thoroughly (no need to peel).
-
Cut each potato lengthwise in half, then slice into 6–8 wedges, depending on thickness.
-
Try to keep all wedges roughly the same size for even roasting.
4. Season and toss
In a large bowl, combine:
-
Olive oil
-
Minced garlic
-
Chopped herbs (rosemary + thyme)
-
Smoked paprika (if using)
-
Salt and pepper
Add sweet potato wedges and toss until evenly coated. Every surface should glisten with oil and seasoning — this ensures maximum crispiness.
5. Arrange for roasting
Spread wedges on your baking sheet in a single layer, cut side down if possible. Crowding them will cause steaming instead of crisping.
6. Roast the sweet potatoes
Bake for 30–35 minutes, flipping halfway through to ensure even browning.
-
After 20 minutes, check one wedge — it should release easily from the pan and show caramelized edges.
-
Roast until golden brown, slightly puffed, and crisp at the tips.
7. Serve and garnish
Remove from oven and let cool for a few minutes. Sprinkle with extra herbs or a pinch of flaky salt before serving.
Chef’s Tips for Perfect Roasted Wedges
Use a hot pan: Preheating your baking sheet for 5 minutes before adding potatoes helps develop that irresistible crust.
Don’t skip the oil: Olive oil promotes even browning and prevents the natural sugars from burning.
Space matters: Too many wedges touching equals steamed potatoes, not roasted ones.
Garlic timing: For a milder flavor, toss garlic halfway through roasting instead of at the beginning.
Optional finish: For restaurant-style presentation, drizzle a touch of garlic oil or sprinkle parmesan (optional) after roasting.
Variations to Try
1. Spicy Sweet Potato Wedges
Add ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper or chili flakes for a fiery kick.
2. Sweet & Savory Mix
Combine garlic and cinnamon or drizzle a bit of maple syrup at the end for a caramelized twist.
3. Mediterranean Style
Add oregano, lemon zest, and a sprinkle of feta (optional) before serving.
4. Smoky BBQ Blend
Mix in smoked paprika, cumin, and a hint of brown sugar for a backyard barbecue feel.
5. Herb Lovers Version
Double the herbs — rosemary, thyme, and parsley — for an aromatic, garden-fresh dish.
Serving Ideas
These garlic herb sweet potato wedges are incredibly versatile. Here are a few pairing ideas:
-
With proteins: Serve alongside grilled chicken, baked salmon, or roasted tofu.
-
In salads: Toss cooled wedges into a quinoa or kale salad.
-
For breakfast: Pair with eggs, avocado, and spinach.
-
For parties: Serve with dipping sauces like garlic aioli, tahini dressing, or spiced yogurt dip.
Nutritional Benefits
Sweet potatoes are one of nature’s most nutrient-dense root vegetables.
-
Rich in beta-carotene: Promotes eye and skin health.
-
High in fiber: Aids digestion and satiety.
-
Complex carbohydrates: Provide slow-releasing energy.
-
Loaded with antioxidants: Help reduce inflammation and boost immunity.
Combined with heart-healthy olive oil and fresh herbs, this dish is both nourishing and satisfying.
Storage & Reheating
Refrigerate:
Store cooled wedges in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freeze:
Freeze on a tray first, then transfer to freezer-safe bags. Keeps for up to 2 months.
Reheat:
-
Oven: 375°F (190°C) for 10–12 minutes until crisp again.
-
Air fryer: 5–6 minutes at 375°F for quick results.
-
Avoid microwaving — it softens the crisp edges.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Wedges are soft instead of crispy:
-
You may have overcrowded the pan or used too low heat. Spread them out and increase temperature slightly.
Garlic burned:
-
Add garlic halfway through roasting next time. Alternatively, toss roasted garlic separately and mix in after baking.
Uneven cooking:
-
Cut uniform wedges and ensure your oven preheats fully. Rotate the pan halfway through baking.
Not enough flavor:
-
Use fresh herbs instead of dried, and season more generously — potatoes absorb flavor well.
Make It Ahead for Gatherings
These roasted sweet potato wedges are perfect for parties and holidays.
-
Prep in advance: Slice and season wedges up to 8 hours before baking. Keep covered in the fridge.
-
Bake just before serving: They’re best enjoyed fresh out of the oven.
-
Large batches: Double or triple the recipe for a crowd; use two pans to prevent overcrowding.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use other herbs besides rosemary and thyme?
Yes! Try sage, oregano, or Italian seasoning blends.
Should I peel the sweet potatoes?
No need. The skin adds texture, nutrients, and helps wedges hold their shape.
Can I make them oil-free?
You can, but they won’t crisp as well. For a lighter version, spray lightly with oil instead of tossing.
What’s the best way to cut wedges evenly?
Cut the potato in half lengthwise, place flat side down, and slice into even segments using a sharp chef’s knife.
Can I use the same method with regular potatoes?
Absolutely. Adjust baking time slightly, as white potatoes may roast faster.
Expert Flavor Pairing Ideas
-
Dips: Garlic aioli, lemon tahini, or spicy ketchup.
-
Main dishes: Lentil stew, grilled vegetables, or roasted chicken.
-
Seasonal pairing: Serve alongside roasted carrots and parsnips for a colorful fall side.
Texture & Flavor Enhancers
To take your wedges from good to incredible:
-
Sprinkle flaky sea salt right after baking while hot.
-
Finish with a drizzle of herb-infused olive oil.
-
Add a touch of freshly squeezed lemon juice for brightness.
Meal Prep Tip
Bake a double batch and portion wedges into containers with greens and a protein for quick weekday lunches. They reheat beautifully in a toaster oven.
Final Thoughts
These roasted sweet potato wedges with garlic and herbs are everything a side dish should be — simple, nourishing, and bursting with flavor. With crisp edges, tender centers, and the warmth of herbs, they’re the kind of dish that disappears quickly from the table. Whether you’re cooking for a cozy dinner at home or feeding a crowd, this recipe delivers every single time.
Crisp, fragrant, and utterly satisfying — a tray of these wedges fresh from the oven is a reminder that the best comfort food often starts with the simplest ingredients.
