There’s a certain joy that comes from creating a dish that’s both simple and stunning, and these Melting Sweet Potatoes are the perfect embodiment of that delight. With the first whiff of maple syrup mingling with the rich umami of white miso, I can’t help but feel excited about the flavor journey awaiting me. This recipe is ideal for those evenings when you want to break free from the fast-food rut but don’t feel like spending hours in the kitchen.
Picture this: golden-brown sweet potato rounds caramelizing beautifully in a hot skillet while a decadent glaze bubbles around them, transforming dinner into a celebration. The combination of sweet and savory flavors isn’t just crowd-pleasing; it’s an embrace of cozy comfort food done right. Not to mention, these sweet potatoes can easily be paired with your favorite protein or enjoyed as a stand-alone star dish.
So grab your skillet, preheat that oven, and let’s dive into this melt-in-your-mouth recipe that promises to revive your love for homemade meals!
Why You'll Love This Melting Sweet Potatoes
- You’ll adore how easy this recipe is, allowing you to create a stunning dish with minimal effort.
- The explosion of flavors from the maple syrup and white miso will elevate your taste buds and leave everyone craving more.
- These sweet potatoes are incredibly versatile, pairing perfectly with any protein or standing proudly on their own as the star of the meal.
- Visually, the golden-brown caramelization and glossy glaze make for an eye-catching presentation that will impress guests at any gathering.
Melting Sweet Potatoes Ingredients
• Discover the essential elements for delicious melting sweet potatoes!
For the Glaze
- Pure maple syrup – a naturally sweet addition that heightens the flavor profile.
- White miso – brings a unique umami richness that complements the sweet potatoes beautifully.
- Unseasoned rice vinegar – adds a touch of acidity to balance the sweetness.
- Reduced-sodium soy sauce – infuses a savory depth without overpowering the dish.
- Water – helps achieve the perfect glaze consistency.
For the Sweet Potatoes
- Sweet potatoes – the star ingredient; choose firm ones for the best results.
- Neutral oil – prevents sticking and aids in achieving that perfect golden-brown crust.
- Kosher salt – enhances flavors; you’ll need it for seasoning both sides.
For the Finishing Touch
- Unsalted butter – lends richness and depth when basted over the potatoes.
- Flaky sea salt (optional) – a finishing touch that offers a delightful crunch.
How to Make Melting Sweet Potatoes
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Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 425°F (220°C) so it’s hot and ready for roasting by the time you’re done prepping the ingredients.
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Mix the Glaze: In a medium bowl, whisk together the maple syrup, white miso, rice vinegar, and soy sauce until smooth. Stir in the water until well combined.
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Prepare Sweet Potatoes: In a large bowl, toss the sweet potato rounds with 1 Tbsp. of neutral oil and 1/2 tsp. of kosher salt until they are evenly coated.
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Sear the Potatoes: Heat 1 Tbsp. of oil in a large ovenproof skillet over medium-high heat. Add the sweet potatoes in a single layer and cook undisturbed until golden brown on the bottom, about 2 to 3 minutes.
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Flip and Season: Carefully flip the potatoes. Sprinkle the remaining 1 tsp. of kosher salt on the second side, then cook undisturbed for an additional 1 to 2 minutes until nicely golden.
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Baste with Butter: Add the unsalted butter to the skillet. Once it melts and starts frothing, tilt the pan and use a large spoon to baste the melted butter over the potatoes for about 30 seconds.
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Add the Glaze: Pour the maple-miso glaze into the skillet around the potatoes, bringing it to a gentle simmer.
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Roast to Perfection: Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven. Roast until the potatoes are tender and the glaze has reduced to a syrupy consistency, about 23 to 28 minutes.
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Serve: Carefully transfer the melting sweet potatoes to a platter. Whisk the remaining sauce in the pan and drizzle it over the potatoes. Optionally, sprinkle with flaky sea salt before serving.
Optional: Drizzle with additional maple syrup for an extra sweet touch.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Melting Sweet Potatoes Variations
Feel free to get creative and personalize these sweet potatoes with delightful twists that will thrill your taste buds.
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Spicy Kick: Add 1 tsp. of cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the glaze for a fiery flavor that balances the sweetness perfectly. The heat adds an exciting depth and kick, making each bite a delightful surprise!
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Vegan Delight: Substitute unsalted butter with coconut oil or a vegan butter alternative to keep the dish plant-based while retaining its creamy goodness. The coconut oil lends a subtle nutty aroma that enhances the natural sweetness of the potatoes.
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Herb Infusion: Add fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme to the glaze for an aromatic burst of flavor. Just a teaspoon of finely chopped fresh herbs goes a long way in elevating the dish, bringing a garden-fresh taste to each bite.
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Maple-Mustard Kick: Combine maple syrup with a tablespoon of Dijon mustard for a zesty twist. This tangy glaze will give your sweet potatoes an unexpected yet delightful flavor profile that dances on the palate.
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Nutty Crunch: Top roasted sweet potatoes with a sprinkle of toasted nuts or seeds, such as walnuts or sunflower seeds, for added texture and crunch. Besides the lovely contrast, the nutty flavor complements the sweetness beautifully.
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Sweet Citrus: Incorporate the zest of an orange or lemon into the glaze for a bright, citrusy undertone that cuts through the richness. This lightens the overall flavor balance, making every bite feel refreshing.
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Garlic Infusion: Add minced garlic to the pan while basting the sweet potatoes for a savory punch that perfectly complements the sweet glaze. The richness of garlic gives the dish an aromatic twist that envelops the senses.
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Brown Sugar Boost: For an extra caramelized touch, replace maple syrup with brown sugar in the glaze. This change brings a deeper sweetness and a delightful caramel flavor that envelops each potato round, ensuring they are irresistibly addictive.
Make Ahead Options
These Melting Sweet Potatoes are a fantastic option for meal prep lovers! You can peel and slice the sweet potatoes up to 24 hours in advance; simply store them submerged in water in the refrigerator to prevent browning. Additionally, you can prepare the maple-miso glaze up to 3 days ahead; just keep it in an airtight container in the fridge. When you’re ready to enjoy this delicious dish, follow steps 1 through 6 to sear the sweet potatoes and make the glaze. Finally, pour it over the potatoes and roast them—this way, you’ll have a warm, comforting side dish ready with minimal effort, just as delicious as if made fresh!
How to Store and Freeze Melting Sweet Potatoes
Room Temperature: Store any leftover sweet potatoes at room temperature for no more than 2 hours to prevent spoilage.
Fridge: Keep Melting Sweet Potatoes in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave.
Freezer: Freeze portions in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: For the best texture, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes.
What to Serve with Melting Sweet Potatoes?
Creating a delicious meal is all about balance, and these sweet potatoes are so versatile that they can shine alongside a variety of dishes.
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Grilled Chicken:
The juicy, charred flavors of grilled chicken contrast beautifully with the sweet and savory notes of the sweet potatoes. -
Roasted Brussels Sprouts:
Their crispy exterior and nutty flavor provide a delightful crunch, enhancing the overall texture of your meal. -
Savory Quinoa Salad:
A protein-packed salad bursting with fresh herbs and vegetables adds a light, refreshing touch that complements the rich sweet potatoes. -
Herb-Crusted Salmon:
The flaky, buttery salmon pairs wonderfully with the soft, melting sweet potatoes for a satisfying, wholesome dish. -
Sautéed Spinach:
A quick sauté of fresh spinach with garlic adds a vibrant green element and a slight bitterness that balances the sweetness. -
Citrus-Infused Couscous:
Light and fluffy, the zesty notes from citrus keep things bright and fresh against the comforting sweetness of the potatoes. -
Chilled White Wine:
An elegant Sauvignon Blanc will enhance the meal with its crisp acidity and fruity notes, perfectly complementing the flavors of the dish. -
Chocolate Mousse:
For dessert, a rich chocolate mousse provides a sophisticated finish to the meal, creating a delightful sweet finale.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For making the Melting Sweet Potatoes, ensure your sweet potatoes are uniform in size for even cooking.
- Avoid overcrowding the skillet when searing; this will help achieve that perfect golden-brown crust.
- When basting the potatoes with butter, use a large spoon to ensure even coverage for maximum richness.
- Monitor the glaze closely while roasting; you want it syrupy but not burnt, so check after 20 minutes.
Melting Sweet Potatoes Recipe FAQs
What should I look for when selecting sweet potatoes?
Absolutely! When choosing sweet potatoes, look for those that are firm, smooth, and free of dark spots or bruises. A healthy sweet potato should feel heavy for its size and have vibrant, rich color. Avoid those with any sign of sprouting or wrinkles, as they’re signs of overripeness.
How should I store leftover Melting Sweet Potatoes?
You can store any leftover Melting Sweet Potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, I recommend using the oven or microwave to refresh their flavor and texture. Just make sure you warm them gently to keep them deliciously creamy!
Can I freeze Melting Sweet Potatoes?
Absolutely! To freeze Melting Sweet Potatoes, first, allow them to cool completely. Then, transfer them into a freezer-safe container or bag. They can be kept for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw them overnight in the fridge. For reheating, place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
What should I do if the glaze is too runny?
If you find that your glaze is runny, don’t worry! It’s a common issue. Allow it to simmer longer on the stovetop to reduce the liquid, which will thicken the glaze. You can also whisk in a little cornstarch mixed with water to achieve a thicker consistency. Keep an eye on it while it simmers, and stir occasionally to avoid burning.
Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
Very! If you’re dealing with specific dietary restrictions, note that this recipe includes soy sauce, which contains wheat and is not gluten-free. You can substitute it with a gluten-free soy sauce or tamari. Additionally, ensure that the miso you choose aligns with your dietary needs, as some varieties may contain allergens like soy. Always check labels for any potential allergens.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
Absolutely! To make the Melting Sweet Potatoes vegan, simply swap the unsalted butter for a plant-based alternative, like coconut oil or a vegan butter substitute. This way, you can savor the rich flavor without compromising your dietary preferences!
Melting Sweet Potatoes
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the maple syrup, white miso, rice vinegar, and soy sauce until smooth. Stir in the water until well combined.
- In a large bowl, toss the sweet potato rounds with 1 Tbsp. of neutral oil and 1/2 tsp. of kosher salt until they are evenly coated.
- Heat 1 Tbsp. of oil in a large ovenproof skillet over medium-high heat. Add the sweet potatoes in a single layer and cook undisturbed until golden brown on the bottom, about 2 to 3 minutes.
- Carefully flip the potatoes. Sprinkle the remaining 1 tsp. of kosher salt on the second side, then cook undisturbed for an additional 1 to 2 minutes until nicely golden.
- Add the unsalted butter to the skillet. Once it melts and starts frothing, tilt the pan and use a large spoon to baste the melted butter over the potatoes for about 30 seconds.
- Pour the maple-miso glaze into the skillet around the potatoes, bringing it to a gentle simmer.
- Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven. Roast until the potatoes are tender and the glaze has reduced to a syrupy consistency, about 23 to 28 minutes.
- Carefully transfer the melting sweet potatoes to a platter. Whisk the remaining sauce in the pan and drizzle it over the potatoes. Optionally, sprinkle with flaky sea salt before serving.
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