Description
These Fondant Sweet Potatoes with Maple-Thyme Glaze offer a deliciously golden and tender side dish. The sweet potatoes are seared to develop a caramelized crust, then slowly roasted with a fragrant buttery maple-thyme glaze that adds a perfect balance of sweetness and herbaceous notes. Perfect for elevating any special meal or cozy family dinner.
Ingredients
Sweet Potatoes
- 4 small to medium sweet potatoes (about 2 pounds)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
- ¼ teaspoon kosher salt
- ¼ teaspoon fresh ground black pepper (about 6-7 twists)
Glaze and Aromatics
- 3 fresh thyme sprigs
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ cup low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth
- 3 tablespoons pure maple syrup
- Fresh thyme leaves (for finishing)
- Flaky sea salt (for finishing)
Instructions
- Prepare the sweet potatoes: Preheat the oven to 400°F. Wash the sweet potatoes thoroughly and slice them crosswise into uniform 1½-inch rounds. You may leave the skins on or peel them according to your preference. Pat the cut surfaces dry to ensure a good sear.
- Sear: Heat the olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter in an oven-safe skillet over medium heat. Arrange the sweet potato rounds in a single layer. Season with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper. Do not move them for 3 to 4 minutes to allow the bottoms to develop a deeply golden crust.
- Add butter and aromatics: Using tongs, flip the potatoes over. Add the remaining 3 tablespoons of butter, fresh thyme sprigs, and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook for 1 to 2 minutes until the butter bubbles and the garlic releases its fragrance.
- Add the maple broth: In a separate bowl, whisk together the low-sodium broth and pure maple syrup. Carefully pour this mixture around the potatoes in the skillet, avoiding pouring directly on the browned tops to preserve their crispness.
- Roast: Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven. Roast the sweet potatoes for 25 to 30 minutes, basting once or twice with the maple-thyme broth. Check doneness by inserting a knife into the centers—it should slide in easily. The liquid should reduce into a glossy, luscious glaze.
- Finish and serve: Remove the skillet from the oven. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves and a sprinkle of flaky sea salt. Serve the potatoes warm, spooning the remaining maple-thyme glaze over them for extra flavor.
Notes
- Leave the skins on the sweet potatoes for extra texture and nutrients, or peel if a smoother bite is preferred.
- Use an oven-safe skillet such as cast iron to easily transition from stovetop searing to oven roasting.
- Low-sodium broth helps control the salt level while adding moisture and flavor.
- For a vegan version, substitute the butter with a plant-based alternative and use vegetable broth.
- Maple syrup can be replaced with honey or agave nectar if desired.
- Basting during roasting ensures the potatoes absorb maximum flavor and remain moist.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: American
