Maple Walnut Goat Cheese Roasted Sweet Potatoes

Introduction

Sweet potatoes are a go-to in our house for their versatility and rich flavor. But when I first tried making Maple Walnut Goat Cheese Roasted Sweet Potatoes, I was taken aback by how incredible the combination of flavors turned out. The natural sweetness of the roasted sweet potatoes, the rich, creamy goat cheese, the warmth of the cinnamon, and the crunch of the toasted walnuts come together in perfect harmony. Every bite was a balanced mix of sweet, savory, and earthy, and it quickly became a favorite. The maple syrup adds just the right amount of sweetness, while the thyme brings a subtle herbaceous flavor that ties it all together. It’s not only a delicious side dish but also a great conversation starter when served at gatherings. My family couldn’t get enough of it, and now I make it for every holiday dinner and even as a simple weeknight side dish. The best part? It’s so easy to make, and it’s packed with nutrients!

Ingredients

• 3 medium sweet potatoes
• 1/3 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/3 cup maple syrup
• 1/3 cup walnuts, chopped
• 1 teaspoon fresh thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon (for topping)
• 1/3 cup goat cheese, crumbled

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C), ensuring it’s fully heated before roasting the sweet potatoes.
2. Prepare the Sweet Potatoes: Wash the sweet potatoes thoroughly. You can peel them if you prefer, but I find keeping the skin on adds texture and nutrients. Slice the sweet potatoes into 1/2-inch rounds for even cooking.
3. Coat the Sweet Potatoes: In a large bowl, combine the sliced sweet potatoes with the melted butter, 1 teaspoon cinnamon, salt, and black pepper. Toss everything together until the sweet potato slices are evenly coated. You can use a spatula, your hands, or even a ziplock bag for easy mixing.
4. Arrange on Baking Tray: Lay the sweet potato slices in a single layer on a baking tray. Ensure they aren’t overlapping so they roast evenly and get that delicious caramelized edge.
5. Roast the Sweet Potatoes: Place the baking tray in the oven and roast the sweet potatoes for 25-30 minutes, or until they are fork-tender. Halfway through the cooking time, I recommend flipping the slices to ensure they cook evenly and develop that golden-brown color.
6. Prepare the Maple Walnut Mixture: While the sweet potatoes are roasting, mix the maple syrup, chopped walnuts, 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon, and fresh thyme in a small bowl. Stir well to combine the flavors and set aside.
7. Assemble the Sweet Potatoes: Once the sweet potatoes are done, remove them from the oven. Spoon about 1 teaspoon of the maple walnut mixture onto each sweet potato slice, ensuring they are generously covered.
8. Add Goat Cheese: Sprinkle the crumbled goat cheese evenly over the sweet potatoes. The warmth from the potatoes will begin to soften the goat cheese, allowing it to meld with the other ingredients.
9. Bake Again: Return the tray to the oven for an additional 8-10 minutes, allowing the walnuts to toast and the goat cheese to soften into the sweet potatoes.
10. Serve: Remove from the oven and serve the sweet potatoes warm. Garnish with additional fresh thyme if desired, for an extra pop of color and flavor.

Nutrition Facts

• Servings: 4 servings
• Calories per Serving: 230 kcal
• Sugar: 16g
• Sodium: 210mg
• Fat: 14g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 27g
• Fiber: 4g
• Protein: 4g
• Cholesterol: 20mg

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes

How to Serve

• As a Side Dish: This dish makes the perfect side for any main course like roasted chicken, grilled steak, or baked salmon. The sweet and savory flavor pairs beautifully with meats.
• For Thanksgiving or Holiday Dinners: The rich and festive flavors make this a great dish for special occasions like Thanksgiving or Christmas.
• For Meal Prep: This dish is perfect for meal prepping as it reheats well. Store the roasted sweet potatoes in an airtight container and reheat for an easy, nutritious meal throughout the week.
• As a Vegetarian Dish: Serve this dish as a main vegetarian meal with a side of quinoa or wild rice for a complete and filling meal.

Additional Tips

1. Use Roasted Vegetable Ritz Crackers: If you prefer a bit more flavor, try using Roasted Vegetable Ritz crackers instead of regular ones in the crust for an added layer of savory taste.
2. Adjust the Maple Syrup: If you prefer a sweeter dish, add a little more maple syrup, or drizzle some extra on top before serving.
3. Make Ahead: You can prepare the sweet potatoes in advance and refrigerate them before the second round of baking. Just add the maple walnut topping and goat cheese before the final baking.
4. Make it Spicy: For a spicy twist, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the maple syrup mixture to give the dish a little heat.
5. Experiment with Nuts: Walnuts can be substituted with other nuts like pecans or almonds. Roasting the nuts before adding them to the dish will enhance their flavor.

Recipe Variations

• Vegan Version: To make this recipe vegan, substitute the butter for coconut oil or a plant-based butter, and use vegan goat cheese or leave the cheese out entirely.
• Nut-Free Option: If you have a nut allergy, you can skip the walnuts and substitute with roasted sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds for a crunch.
• Herb Variations: For a different herbal flavor, try using rosemary instead of thyme. It pairs beautifully with the sweet potatoes and adds a unique twist to the dish.
• Spicy Maple Version: Add a tablespoon of sriracha or hot sauce to the maple syrup mixture for a sweet and spicy contrast that works wonderfully with the sweetness of the potatoes.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a Salad: A fresh salad with a tangy vinaigrette complements the richness of the sweet potatoes, offering a balance of flavors.
• With Grilled Protein: Pair these sweet potatoes with grilled chicken or fish for a healthy and flavorful dinner.
• For a Lighter Meal: Serve these roasted sweet potatoes with a side of steamed broccoli or kale for a lighter, nutrient-packed meal.
• Garnish: Add a sprinkle of extra cinnamon or a drizzle of maple syrup over the top just before serving to enhance the flavors.

Freezing and Storage

• Storing Leftovers: Store leftover sweet potatoes in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave, though reheating in the oven helps retain the crispiness of the walnuts.
• Freezing: You can freeze the roasted sweet potatoes before adding the goat cheese and maple walnut topping. After freezing, reheat them in the oven, then add the toppings and bake for an additional 8-10 minutes.
• Reheating: For best results, reheat the sweet potatoes in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes to maintain their texture and flavor.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use other types of sweet potatoes?
   Yes, you can use other varieties like Japanese sweet potatoes or garnet yams, but the texture and sweetness may vary slightly.
2. Can I skip the goat cheese?
   Yes, if you don’t like goat cheese, you can substitute it with feta cheese, ricotta, or even leave it out entirely for a dairy-free version.
3. Can I prepare the sweet potatoes ahead of time?
   Yes, you can prep the sweet potatoes in advance, slice them, and refrigerate them before roasting. Just coat them with the butter and seasoning before baking.
4. What if I don’t have fresh thyme?
   You can use dried thyme instead, but use half the amount as dried thyme is more concentrated.
5. Can I use pre-roasted walnuts?
   Yes, pre-roasted walnuts will work fine. Just ensure that they are unsalted for the best flavor balance.
6. How can I make this dish spicier?
   Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the maple syrup mixture for a kick of heat.
7. How long will leftovers last?
   Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, but they are best when eaten fresh.
8. Can I make this dish with canned sweet potatoes?
   While fresh sweet potatoes give the best flavor and texture, you can use canned sweet potatoes in a pinch. Just drain them and slice before proceeding with the recipe.
9. Is this dish suitable for meal prep?
   Yes, this dish is great for meal prep. Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
10. Can I make this dish in advance and freeze it?
    Yes, you can freeze the sweet potatoes before adding the topping. After reheating, add the goat cheese and walnut mixture before the final bake.

Conclusion

Maple Walnut Goat Cheese Roasted Sweet Potatoes are a must-try dish that perfectly balances sweet and savory flavors. With their crispy edges, creamy goat cheese, and crunchy walnuts, these sweet potatoes are an irresistible side dish or main event. Whether you’re serving them for a holiday meal, a weeknight dinner, or as a healthy snack, they are sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Easy to make, full of flavor, and packed with nutrients, this recipe will quickly become a family favorite that you’ll keep coming back to time and time again. Enjoy the delightful combination of maple syrup, roasted sweet potatoes, and goat cheese in this comforting dish!

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