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 tbsp olive oil; 1 tsp dried thyme; Salt and pepper, to taste

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Maple Roasted Sweet Potatoes with Walnuts is one of my favorite go-to side dishes when I want something cozy, flavorful, and simple. The sweetness of maple syrup pairs perfectly with the earthiness of roasted sweet potatoes and the crunch of toasted walnuts. It’s a beautiful balance of savory and sweet that works just as well for a weeknight dinner as it does for a holiday table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how easy this dish is to make with just a handful of ingredients, yet the flavor payoff is huge. The maple syrup caramelizes beautifully in the oven, the walnuts add a toasty crunch, and the thyme gives everything a hint of herbal warmth. It’s naturally gluten-free, vegetarian, and can be prepped in advance—ideal for busy nights or planning ahead for gatherings. Maple Roasted Sweet Potatoes with Walnuts

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 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp dried thyme
Salt and pepper, to taste

Directions

Preheat the Oven: I start by preheating the oven to 400°F (200°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, I toss the diced sweet potatoes with olive oil, maple syrup, thyme, salt, and pepper until everything is well coated.
Add Walnuts: I gently fold in the chopped walnuts, making sure they’re evenly mixed into the sweet potato mixture.
Roast the Sweet Potatoes: I spread everything in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet and roast for 25–30 minutes, stirring halfway through. I look for that golden caramelization on the edges and fork-tender texture.
Serve: I serve the sweet potatoes warm, either straight from the oven or after letting them cool slightly so the flavors settle.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4 people as a side dish.
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 30 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes

Variations

I sometimes add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warmer, more autumnal flavor.
For added richness, I drizzle a bit of melted butter over the potatoes before roasting.
If I want a touch of heat, I add a sprinkle of cayenne or crushed red pepper flakes.
Pecans make a great substitute for walnuts if I want a slightly different nutty flavor.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.

Reheating: I reheat them in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10–15 minutes, or in the microwave for about 1–2 minutes until warmed through.

Freezing: While technically possible, I find the texture of sweet potatoes gets a bit soft after freezing and reheating, so I prefer enjoying this dish fresh.

FAQs

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, I often roast the sweet potatoes a day in advance and reheat them in the oven right before serving. They hold up well and the flavors deepen overnight.

Can I use raw walnuts?

Yes, the walnuts roast along with the sweet potatoes in the oven, so there’s no need to toast them beforehand.

What’s the best way to cut sweet potatoes for roasting?

I dice them into evenly sized 1-inch cubes to make sure they roast evenly and caramelize nicely.

Can I use honey instead of maple syrup?

Absolutely. I’ve swapped in honey when I’m out of maple syrup—it adds a slightly different sweetness but still tastes great.

Is this recipe vegan?

Yes, it’s completely vegan as written. I make sure to use 100% pure maple syrup and plant-based oil.

Conclusion

Maple Roasted Sweet Potatoes with Walnuts is a comforting, flavorful side dish that I love making year-round. It’s simple, nutritious, and always a hit at the table. Whether I’m preparing a casual family dinner or adding it to a holiday spread, this dish brings just the right mix of sweetness, crunch, and savory goodness.