These maple roasted sweet potatoes are tossed with a smoky BBQ seasoning, drizzled with pure maple syrup, and roasted until tender and caramelized. They make an easy, flavorful side that works for weeknights and holiday tables alike.
Why you’ll love these sweet potatoes
- Simple ingredients, big flavor. Just sweet potatoes, olive oil, BBQ seasoning, maple syrup, and salt.
- Versatile side. They pair with pork, chicken, beef, or burgers.
- Kid-friendly & crowd-pleasing. The sweet-and-smoky balance is addictive.
- Easy enough for weeknights, special enough for holidays.
Ingredients
Super simple — you’ll need:
- Sweet potatoes
- Maple syrup
- Your favorite dry BBQ seasoning
- Salt
How to make maple roasted sweet potatoes
- Peel and cube the sweet potatoes. Cut into roughly 1-inch pieces. You can leave skins on if preferred; just aim for uniform pieces so they cook evenly.
- Toss with oil and seasoning. In a bowl, combine the sweet potato cubes with olive oil and BBQ seasoning, tossing until evenly coated.
- Spread on a baking sheet. Arrange in a single layer with space between the pieces so they crisp rather than steam.
- Roast. Bake at 400°F for 20–25 minutes, stirring once halfway through, until edges are golden and centers are tender.
- Finish with maple syrup and salt. Remove from the oven, drizzle with maple syrup, add a pinch of salt, and toss gently. Return to the oven for 3–5 minutes if you want a sticky glaze.
- Serve warm or at room temperature.
Note: Use just enough oil to coat the potatoes and make sure the oven is fully preheated to help create caramelized edges.
Variations
Toasted pecans or walnuts. Sprinkle chopped nuts over the finished dish for crunch and flavor.
Add root veggies. Roast cubed butternut squash, carrots, or parsnips alongside the sweet potatoes.
Crumbled bacon. For holiday meals, add cooked bacon bits just before serving.
Swap the BBQ seasoning. Try smoked paprika, garlic powder, and a touch of cumin for a different smoky profile.
Cinnamon-maple version. Omit the BBQ seasoning and add a pinch of cinnamon or allspice for a sweeter side.
Serving Suggestions
Some favorite pairings:
- Pork tenderloin or pork chops
- Roasted or grilled chicken
- Turkey or ham for holiday dinners
- Burgers, sliders, or meatloaf
- A hearty grain bowl with greens and protein
They also travel well for potlucks and reheat nicely.
How to Store Leftovers
If leftovers become slightly soggy, spread them on a rimmed baking sheet and re-crisp in a hot oven (425°F) for 5–8 minutes.
Place cooled potatoes in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3–4 days.
To reheat: warm in a 350°F oven for 10–15 minutes or heat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through. Microwaving works in a pinch but may soften the edges.
How to Prep Ahead
Make the process easier by prepping ahead:
- Peel, cube, and soak. After dicing, submerge the potatoes in cold water and refrigerate for up to 2 days. Drain and dry thoroughly before roasting.
- Mix the dry seasoning. Combine your BBQ seasoning in advance and store in a small jar.
- On roast day. Drain and pat the potatoes dry, toss with oil and seasoning, roast, and finish with maple syrup and salt just before serving.
Other Easy Side Dish Recipes
- Funeral Sandwiches (Hot Ham and Cheese Sliders Recipe)
- Cranberry Goat Cheese Appetizer
- Mediterranean Roasted Vegetables
- Instant Pot Mashed Sweet Potatoes
Recipe
Maple Roasted Sweet Potatoes
Deanne Frieders | This Farm Girl Cooks
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Ingredients
- 3 medium sweet potatoes peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes (about 1½–2 pounds)
- 2 Tablespoons olive oil
- 2 teaspoons BBQ seasoning use your favorite smoky blend
- 2 Tablespoons pure maple syrup
- Salt to taste
Method
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Preheat the oven to 400°F and line a large baking sheet with parchment or foil for easy cleanup.
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Prep: Peel and cube 3 medium sweet potatoes into 1-inch pieces so they roast evenly.
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Season: In a large bowl, toss the potatoes with 2 tablespoons olive oil and 2 teaspoons BBQ seasoning until coated.
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Roast: Spread the potatoes in a single layer, leaving space between pieces. Roast 20–25 minutes, stirring once halfway, until tender and lightly caramelized.
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Finish: Drizzle with 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup, sprinkle with salt, toss to coat, and roast 3–5 more minutes to glaze.
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Serve: Transfer to a bowl and enjoy warm or at room temperature.
Farm Girl Tips
Reheat: Warm in a 350°F oven for 10–15 minutes or in a skillet over medium heat until heated through.
How to Prep Ahead
- Chop ahead: Peel and cube the sweet potatoes up to 2 days in advance and keep submerged in cold water in the fridge; drain and dry well before roasting.
- Drizzle later: Add the maple syrup and salt only at the end so the glaze and texture stay perfect.
Notes
- Avoid overcrowding the pan — this helps create caramelized edges.
- Make sure your oven is fully preheated before roasting.
Nutrition
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This post was originally published on December 6, 2016 and updated on November 17, 2020.