Sweet potatoes are a staple of cozy, comforting meals, especially in the cooler months. When roasted with crunchy toasted walnuts and drizzled with pure maple syrup, they transform into a dish that’s both sweet and savory, with a perfect balance of textures and flavors. This Walnut Maple Roasted Sweet Potatoes recipe is easy to prepare, naturally gluten-free, and makes an excellent side for weeknight dinners, holiday feasts, or anytime you want a touch of warmth and sweetness on your plate.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple & Quick: Ready in about 35 minutes with minimal prep.
- Perfect Balance: The natural sweetness of the potatoes pairs beautifully with toasted walnuts and rich maple syrup.
- Healthy & Wholesome: Sweet potatoes are nutrient-rich, and walnuts add heart-healthy fats and crunch.
- Versatile: Great as a side dish for poultry, pork, or vegetarian meals.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Can be roasted ahead and reheated gently before serving.
Ingredients
- 3 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
- 1/3 cup chopped walnuts
- 3 tablespoons pure maple syrup
- Fresh parsley or thyme for garnish (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
Step 2: Toss the Sweet Potatoes
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cubed sweet potatoes, olive oil, salt, pepper, cinnamon, and nutmeg (if using). Toss well to coat each piece evenly with the oil and spices.
Step 3: Roast the Sweet Potatoes
Spread the sweet potatoes in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Roast for about 25 minutes, flipping once halfway through, until tender and starting to caramelize.
Step 4: Add Walnuts and Maple Syrup
Remove the baking sheet from the oven and sprinkle the chopped walnuts evenly over the sweet potatoes. Drizzle the maple syrup on top, then return to the oven for an additional 5-7 minutes. This will toast the walnuts slightly and let the maple syrup glaze the sweet potatoes.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Remove from the oven and transfer to a serving dish. Garnish with fresh parsley or thyme if desired for a pop of color and herbaceous flavor. Serve warm.
Tips for the Best Walnut Maple Roasted Sweet Potatoes
- Even Cubes: Cut sweet potatoes into uniform pieces for even roasting.
- Don’t Overcrowd: Give the potatoes space on the baking sheet to roast rather than steam.
- Maple Syrup Quality: Use pure maple syrup for the best flavor—avoid imitation syrups.
- Toast Walnuts Separately: For extra crunch, you can toast walnuts lightly in a dry pan before adding them to the potatoes.
- Make It Vegan: This recipe is naturally vegan and gluten-free.
Variations You’ll Love
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika with the spices.
- Add Fresh Citrus: Squeeze a little fresh orange juice or sprinkle orange zest over the roasted potatoes for brightness.
- Sweet & Savory: Toss in dried cranberries or chopped fresh rosemary for added complexity.
- Gluten-Free Crumble: Top with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed pecans for more texture.
Nutrition Highlights (Per Serving)
- Calories: ~180
- Fat: 8g (mostly healthy fats from walnuts and olive oil)
- Carbohydrates: 26g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 3g
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use other nuts?
Yes! Pecans or almonds work beautifully and add their own unique flavor and crunch.
How long do leftovers keep?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave.
Can I prepare this ahead?
You can prep the sweet potatoes ahead of time but add walnuts and maple syrup just before roasting.
Final Thoughts
This Walnut Maple Roasted Sweet Potatoes recipe is an effortless way to elevate simple sweet potatoes into a dish that’s bursting with cozy fall flavors and satisfying textures. Whether paired with roasted chicken, pork tenderloin, or enjoyed as a vegetarian side, it’s sure to become a favorite on your dinner table. Give it a try and savor the perfect harmony of sweet, nutty, and warmly spiced goodness!
