This sweet potato and goat cheese dish is a tasty combo! Roasted sweet potatoes become soft and sweet, while creamy goat cheese adds a delightful tang. Together, they make a perfect pair!
I love how easy it is to whip this up. Just pop the sweet potatoes in the oven, mash them a bit, and mix in the goat cheese. It’s a simple side that always impresses!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Sweet Potatoes: These are the star of the dish! Look for firm sweet potatoes with smooth skin. If you prefer, yams can also be used for a slightly different flavor.
Goat Cheese: The creamy, tangy flavor makes this dish special. If you need a substitute, consider cream cheese for similar texture or feta cheese for a different taste.
Dried Cranberries/Cherries: These add sweetness and chewiness. Feel free to swap with raisins or chopped apricots if you like something sweeter or more tropical.
Walnuts: They provide crunch. You could use pecans or almonds instead, or even skip nuts if you have nut allergies.
Fresh Rosemary: Its flavor shines here! Dried rosemary can work in a pinch, but use less since dried herbs are more potent.
How Do You Achieve Perfectly Roasted Sweet Potatoes?
Getting sweet potatoes just right makes all the difference! Here’s how to achieve that perfect roast:
- Ensure the sweet potato slices are evenly cut for consistent cooking.
- Brush with olive oil generously for a nice crisp edge.
- Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet! Space helps them roast instead of steam.
- Keep an eye on the color—look for golden-brown edges as a sign they’re ready.
Let them rest a bit after baking to lock in the moisture and flavor before topping!
Sweet Potato Goat Cheese Bites
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 large sweet potatoes, washed and sliced into 1/2-inch rounds
- 4 oz (about 115g) goat cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup dried cranberries or cherries, chopped
- 1/4 cup walnuts, chopped
- 1 tbsp fresh rosemary, finely chopped (plus extra sprigs for garnish)
- 1-2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 tsp balsamic glaze or reduction (optional, for drizzling)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe should take about 35-40 minutes in total. You’ll spend about 10 minutes prepping the ingredients and another 25-30 minutes roasting the sweet potatoes and blending the toppings. Perfect for when you want something quick yet impressive!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This is essential for getting those sweet potatoes nice and tender with a little caramelization.
2. Prepare the Sweet Potatoes:
Once the oven is ready, line a baking sheet with parchment paper or give it a light greasing. Lay out the sliced sweet potatoes in a single layer. Brush both sides of the rounds with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper for extra flavor.
3. Roast the Sweet Potatoes:
Place the baking sheet in the oven and roast for about 20-25 minutes. Flip the sweet potato slices halfway through cooking so they brown nicely on both sides. You’re looking for them to be tender and just beginning to turn golden.
4. Toast the Walnuts:
While the sweet potatoes are roasting, grab a small pan and place it over medium heat. Add the chopped walnuts and toast them for about 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly until fragrant. Then, remove from heat and mix in the chopped dried cranberries and finely chopped rosemary.
5. Layer the Toppings:
Once the sweet potatoes are roasted, take them out and let them cool for a moment. Top each slice generously with crumbled goat cheese. This is what will make every bite creamy and delicious!
6. Add the Walnut Mixture:
Next, spoon the walnut, cranberry, and rosemary mixture over the goat cheese on each sweet potato slice. This will add wonderful texture and flavor.
7. Drizzle and Serve:
If you like a little zing, drizzle a bit of balsamic glaze over the top of each bite. Finally, garnish with extra rosemary sprigs and a sprinkle of black pepper. You can serve them warm or let them cool to room temperature.
Enjoy these Sweet Potato Goat Cheese Bites as a delightful appetizer or side dish! They balance sweet, tangy, creamy, and herby flavors beautifully — sure to impress your guests!
Can I Use Sweet Potato Mash Instead of Slices?
Absolutely! If you prefer a mash, simply roast the sweet potatoes until tender, then mash them with a fork or potato masher. Top the mash with the goat cheese and walnut mixture for a comforting twist.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They should keep well for up to 2-3 days. Just reheat gently in the microwave or oven before serving.
Can I Make These Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prep the sweet potatoes and toppings in advance! Roast the sweet potatoes and make the walnut mixture, then assemble just before you’re ready to serve. This will ensure they taste fresh and delicious.
What Can I Substitute for Goat Cheese?
If goat cheese isn’t your thing, try using cream cheese for a milder flavor or feta for a salty kick. Both options will still provide a creamy texture that complements the sweet potatoes nicely!
