Name: Maple Roasted Sweet Potatoes with Walnuts
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced; 1/4 cup maple syrup; 1/4 cup walnuts, chopped; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; Salt and pepper, to taste

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Maple Roasted Sweet Potatoes with Walnuts is a comforting and delicious side dish that brings together the natural sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes with the rich flavor of maple syrup and the satisfying crunch of walnuts. With just a few simple ingredients and easy prep, I always find this dish to be a hit during the fall season or holiday meals.

Maple Roasted Sweet Potatoes with Walnuts

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how the maple syrup caramelizes while roasting, giving the sweet potatoes a beautiful golden edge and a deep flavor. The chopped walnuts add a contrasting crunch, while thyme brings a subtle earthiness that balances the sweetness perfectly. This is one of those recipes that feels gourmet but is incredibly easy to put together, making it ideal for both weeknight dinners and festive gatherings.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
1/4 cup maple syrup
1/4 cup walnuts, chopped
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon dried thyme
Salt and pepper, to taste

Directions

I start by preheating the oven to 400°F (200°C).
In a large bowl, I toss together the diced sweet potatoes with olive oil, maple syrup, thyme, salt, and pepper.
Once everything is well coated, I fold in the chopped walnuts.
Then, I spread the mixture out on a baking sheet in a single layer to ensure even roasting.
I roast the sweet potatoes for 25–30 minutes, giving them a good stir halfway through to help them caramelize evenly.
Once they’re tender and golden, I serve them warm.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 4 servings.
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 25–30 minutes
Total time: 35–40 minutes

Variations

Sometimes I like to add a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg to bring out the sweet notes even more. For a savory twist, I’ve tried adding crumbled goat cheese or feta after roasting. If I want to make it heartier, tossing in roasted Brussels sprouts or carrots works beautifully too. And when I’m serving it for a holiday meal, a touch of orange zest really brightens the whole dish.

Storage/Reheating

I store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. When I reheat, I prefer to pop them back in the oven at 350°F for about 10–15 minutes to retain the crisp edges. The microwave works too for convenience, though they may lose a bit of their texture.

FAQs

How do I know when the sweet potatoes are done roasting?

I look for a caramelized golden color on the edges and a fork-tender texture. They should be slightly crisp on the outside and soft inside.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, I often prep the sweet potatoes and mix them with the seasonings ahead of time. I keep them in the fridge, and then roast them just before serving.

Can I use fresh thyme instead of dried?

Absolutely. I use about three times the amount of fresh thyme compared to dried. It gives an even fresher herb flavor.

What’s the best type of sweet potato for roasting?

I usually go for orange-fleshed sweet potatoes like Garnet or Jewel—they roast up sweet and creamy while holding their shape.

Can I make this dish nut-free?

Yes, I’ve skipped the walnuts before or swapped them with pumpkin seeds for a crunch without the nuts.

Conclusion

This Maple Roasted Sweet Potatoes with Walnuts recipe is a go-to for me when I want something cozy, flavorful, and easy to prepare. Whether I’m cooking for a holiday dinner or just adding something special to a weeknight meal, it never fails to impress with its balance of sweet, savory, and crunchy.