Pin it I stood in my tiny apartment kitchen one rainy Tuesday, craving something that would wake up my tastebuds and warm the room. A bag of sweet potatoes sat on the counter, and I remembered a jar of Cajun seasoning my friend had brought back from New Orleans. What happened next was completely impulsive and absolutely worth it.
Last summer I made these for a backyard barbecue and my friend kept picking them off the platter every time she walked past. She claimed she was just taste testing but eventually I caught her standing there eating them like chips. Now she requests them every single time.
Ingredients
- 2 large sweet potatoes: I have learned that picking firm heavy ones without bruises makes all the difference in texture
- 2 tbsp olive oil: This helps the spices cling and creates those gorgeous crispy edges we all want
- 1 1/2 tsp Cajun seasoning: The heart of the dish but do not be afraid to adjust based on your blend
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika: This adds that deep campfire flavor that makes people ask what your secret is
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder: Because everything tastes better with garlic honestly
- 1/4 tsp onion powder: Works quietly in the background to round out all the flavors
- 1/4 tsp dried thyme: Adds an earthy note that balances the heat beautifully
- 1/2 tsp salt: Essential but taste your Cajun blend first since some already contain salt
- 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper: Freshly ground really does make a difference here
- Pinch of cayenne pepper: Only if you want that extra kick that makes your forehead glisten a little
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley: Brings a bright pop of color and fresh flavor to finish
- Lemon wedges: A squeeze cuts through the richness and wakes everything up
Instructions
- Get your oven ready:
- Preheat to 220°C with a rack in the middle position and line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easier cleanup
- Prep the potatoes:
- Peel those sweet potatoes and slice them into even half inch rounds so they cook at the same rate
- Coat with oil:
- Toss the slices in a large bowl with olive oil until every piece is glistening
- Mix the magic:
- Combine all your spices in a small bowl and take a moment to smell that incredible blend
- Season generously:
- Sprinkle the spice mix over the potatoes and toss until each slice is wearing a beautiful red coat
- Arrange for success:
- Lay them out in a single layer without crowding because we want roast not steam
- First roast:
- Slide them into the hot oven and let them cook for 15 minutes undisturbed
- The flip:
- Flip each slice carefully and roast for another 12 to 15 minutes until the edges are golden and slightly crispy
- Finish with flair:
- Transfer to your serving platter scatter with parsley and set out those lemon wedges
Pin it My grandmother would lean against the counter watching me cook and say the best recipes are the ones that make the whole house smell good before anyone even takes a bite. These fill the kitchen with such incredible aromas that people inevitably drift in asking what you are making.
Getting The Perfect Roast
I have found that keeping the slices evenly thick is the real game changer. When some are thin and others are thick you end up with burnt pieces and undercooked centers on the same sheet. Take your time with the knife work and your patience will pay off.
Serving Suggestions
These potatoes shine alongside anything grilled but they also hold their own as the star of a vegetarian dinner. I have served them with roasted chicken at fancy dinners and next to veggie burgers on lazy weeknights.
Make Ahead And Storage
You can slice and season the potatoes up to a day ahead and keep them in the refrigerator. Leftovers reheat beautifully in a warm oven or toaster oven though they never last long enough in my house to worry about storage.
- Reheat at 180°C for about 10 minutes to recrisp the edges
- Avoid microwaving unless you prefer soft potatoes
- The spices actually meld and develop more flavor overnight
Pin it Hope these bring as much joy to your table as they have to mine.
Recipe FAQs
- → What type of sweet potatoes work best?
Large, firm sweet potatoes that can be evenly sliced ensure consistent roasting and crispy edges.
- → Can I adjust the spiciness level?
Yes, modify the amount of cayenne pepper to increase or reduce heat according to preference.
- → How can I achieve extra crispiness?
Broil the slices for 2–3 minutes after roasting to get a crunchier texture.
- → Is it necessary to peel the sweet potatoes?
Peeling is recommended for even cooking and a tender texture, but leaving the skin is an option for extra fiber.
- → What dishes pair well with these potatoes?
They complement grilled meats, burgers, or can be enjoyed as a standalone snack.