How to Make Golden Smashed Sweet Potatoes with Dreamy Feta

Are you tired of the same old boring side dishes that leave your dinner guests unimpressed? These Golden Smashed Sweet Potatoes with Dreamy Feta are about to become your new signature dish! Crispy on the outside, fluffy on the inside, and topped with tangy, creamy feta that melts slightly into the warm potatoes this recipe delivers restaurant-quality results with minimal effort.

As the creator behind GusRecipes, I’ve tested dozens of sweet potato preparations, and this technique consistently earns rave reviews at my family gatherings. The contrast between the caramelized edges of the sweet potatoes and the salty, creamy feta creates a flavor combination that’s simply irresistible.

In this guide, I’ll walk you through selecting the perfect sweet potatoes, my foolproof smashing technique, and how to achieve that perfect golden crust that makes this dish so special. I’ll also share variations and serving suggestions to make this versatile side dish work for any occasion.

Why This Sweet Potato Recipe Works

• Uses affordable, easy-to-find ingredients available year-round
• Requires just 30 minutes of active cooking time
• Creates the perfect balance of textures crispy exterior and fluffy interior
• Combines sweet and savory flavors in one delicious dish
• Works equally well for weeknight dinners or holiday feasts
• Easily customizable to different flavor profiles and dietary needs

Choosing the Right Sweet Potatoes

Best Sweet Potatoes for Smashing

For the perfect smashed sweet potatoes, look for medium-sized orange-fleshed varieties (often labeled as “Jewel” or “Garnet” sweet potatoes). These varieties have the ideal starch content for smashing they’ll hold together while still getting wonderfully fluffy inside when cooked.

Avoid using very large sweet potatoes, as they’ll take too long to cook through before smashing. Similarly, the purple or white varieties have a different texture that doesn’t smash quite as well for this particular technique.

Buying Tips

When selecting sweet potatoes for this recipe, look for:

• Firm, smooth skin without wrinkles or soft spots
• Consistent medium size (about 4-5 inches long) for even cooking
• No sprouting or signs of decay
• Relatively straight shape for easier slicing and even cooking

Substitutions

If you can’t find ideal sweet potatoes, you can substitute:

• Yukon gold potatoes (though you’ll lose the sweet flavor)
• Japanese sweet potatoes (slightly drier texture but still delicious)
• Small russet potatoes (will give a fluffier, less dense result)

Sweet Potato Prep and Ingredients

Sweet Potato Prep Essentials

Before you begin cooking your smashed sweet potatoes, it’s important to prepare them properly:

1. Scrub the sweet potatoes thoroughly under cool water
2. Cut away any eyes or blemishes
3. For even cooking, slice very large sweet potatoes in half lengthwise

Seasonings and Toppings

For the base recipe, you’ll need:

• 4 medium sweet potatoes
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 6 oz crumbled feta cheese
• 2 tablespoons honey (optional)
• Red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)

Pantry Staples

These common ingredients enhance the sweet potatoes:

• High-quality olive oil (for roasting and drizzling)
• Flaky sea salt (for finishing)
• Fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, or sage
• Garlic powder or fresh garlic

Step-by-Step Sweet Potato Cooking Instructions

Pre-Cooking Sweet Potato Prep

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Place whole sweet potatoes on a baking sheet.
3. Drizzle with 1 tablespoon olive oil and rub to coat each potato.
4. Sprinkle lightly with salt to enhance flavor while baking.

Sweet Potato Cooking Method

1. Bake the whole sweet potatoes for 30-40 minutes until just tender when pierced with a fork (they should offer some resistance but be cooked through).
2. Remove from oven and let cool slightly (about 5 minutes) until you can handle them.
3. Using the bottom of a glass or measuring cup, gently press down on each potato to “smash” it to about ¾-inch thickness. Press firmly but gently you want them to split open but still hold together.
4. Increase oven temperature to 450°F (230°C).
5. Brush the smashed potatoes with remaining olive oil, making sure to get the oil into the cracks and crevices.
6. Sprinkle with minced garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper.
7. Return to the oven and roast for 15-20 more minutes until the edges become golden and crispy.

Sweet Potato Doneness Check

Your smashed sweet potatoes are perfectly done when:

• The edges have turned deep golden brown and slightly crispy
• The center is tender when pierced with a fork
• The tops have begun to caramelize slightly
• The garlic is fragrant but not burnt

Finishing Sweet Potatoes

1. Remove sweet potatoes from oven and immediately sprinkle with crumbled feta cheese.
2. Let sit for 2-3 minutes to allow the feta to warm slightly.
3. If using, drizzle with honey and sprinkle with red pepper flakes.
4. Finish with a light sprinkle of flaky sea salt and additional fresh herbs if desired.

Pro Tips for Perfect Smashed Sweet Potatoes

Avoiding Common Sweet Potato Mistakes

• Don’t rush the initial bake: Sweet potatoes need to be soft enough to smash but not so soft they fall apart
• Use enough oil: A generous coating helps create those crispy edges
• Give them space: Leave room between potatoes on the baking sheet for proper browning
• Watch carefully during final roast: The high sugar content means they can go from golden to burnt quickly

Tool Recommendations

• Heavy-duty baking sheet (avoid flimsy ones that can warp)
• Flat-bottomed glass or measuring cup for even smashing
• Silicone pastry brush for applying oil evenly
• Microplane for finely grating garlic (optional)

Storage & Reheating

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days
• Reheat in a 375°F oven for 10-15 minutes until heated through and re-crisped
• Avoid microwaving if possible, as it makes them soggy

Looking for more recipe inspiration? Check out my collection of sweet and savory dishes on Pinterest where I share my latest culinary creations and seasonal favorites!

Sweet Potato Flavor Variations

Spicy Sweet Potato Twist

Transform these sweet potatoes with a kick of heat by adding:

• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper
• Substitute cotija cheese for feta
• Finish with chopped cilantro and lime zest

Health-Conscious Sweet Potato Options

Adapt this recipe for different dietary needs:

• Dairy-free: Substitute nutritional yeast or dairy-free cheese alternative for feta
• Vegan: Use maple syrup instead of honey and omit cheese or use plant-based alternative
• Paleo: Use ghee instead of olive oil and omit the cheese

Global Sweet Potato Flavors

Sweet Potato Serving Suggestions

These golden smashed sweet potatoes pair beautifully with:

• Grilled or roasted chicken for a complete meal
• Alongside a hearty salad for a vegetarian dinner
• As part of a holiday spread with roasted turkey or ham
• With sautéed greens like kale or spinach for a nutritional boost

For drinks, try serving with:

• Crisp white wines like Sauvignon Blanc or unoaked Chardonnay
• Sparkling water with citrus for a refreshing non-alcoholic option
• Kombucha for a probiotic-rich accompaniment

Sweet Potato FAQs

Q: Can I make these sweet potatoes ahead of time?
A: Yes! Bake and smash the sweet potatoes up to a day ahead, then refrigerate. When ready to serve, brush with oil and seasonings, then complete the final roasting step.

Q: My sweet potatoes are falling apart when I smash them. What am I doing wrong?
A: You may be over-baking them in the first step. The initial bake should leave them just tender enough to smash, not completely soft.

Q: Can I use canned sweet potatoes for this recipe?
A: I don’t recommend canned sweet potatoes, as they’re typically too soft and wet to achieve the crispy edges that make this recipe special.

Q: How can I make this recipe if I don’t have an oven?
A: You can boil the sweet potatoes until just tender, smash them, then pan-fry in a heavy skillet with oil until crispy on both sides.

Conclusion

These Golden Smashed Sweet Potatoes with Dreamy Feta transform a humble vegetable into an extraordinary side dish that will have everyone asking for your secret. The combination of sweet, salty, crispy, and creamy elements creates a perfect balance that complements almost any main course.

I hope you’ll give this recipe a try at your next dinner whether it’s a simple weeknight meal or a special gathering. It’s these little touches that turn ordinary meals into memorable experiences around the table.

Don’t forget to tag @GusRecipes on social media when you make this dish! I love seeing your creations and hearing how you’ve adapted these recipes to make them your own. Happy cooking!

How to Make Golden Smashed Sweet Potatoes with Dreamy Feta

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• Author: Emma Emma
• Total Time: 55 mins
• Yield: 6 servings 1x
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Crispy, caramelized smashed sweet potatoes topped with creamy whipped feta, a bright lemon zest, and a drizzle of honey  a stunning side dish that’s both savory and sweet.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

2 lbs small sweet potatoes

2 tbsp olive oil

Salt and pepper, to taste

1/2 tsp smoked paprika (optional)

1 cup crumbled feta cheese

1/4 cup Greek yogurt

1 tbsp lemon juice

Zest of 1 lemon

1–2 tbsp honey, for drizzling

Fresh thyme or parsley, for garnish

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. Boil sweet potatoes in salted water for 15–20 minutes until just fork-tender. Drain and let cool slightly.

3. Transfer potatoes to the baking sheet. Gently smash each one with the bottom of a glass to flatten slightly.

4. Brush with olive oil and sprinkle with salt, pepper, and paprika.

5. Roast for 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and crisp on the edges.

6. Meanwhile, in a food processor, blend feta, Greek yogurt, and lemon juice until smooth and fluffy.

7. Spread whipped feta on a serving platter. Arrange roasted sweet potatoes on top.

8. Drizzle with honey, sprinkle lemon zest, and garnish with herbs before serving.

Notes

For extra flavor, add a pinch of chili flakes to the honey drizzle.

This dish pairs beautifully with grilled meats or as part of a holiday spread.

Whipped feta can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.

• Prep Time: 15 mins
• Cook Time: 40 mins
• Category: Side Dish
• Method: Roasted
• Cuisine: Mediterranean

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 portion
• Calories: 230
• Sugar: 9g
• Sodium: 310mg
• Fat: 11g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 27g
• Fiber: 4g
• Protein: 6g
• Cholesterol: 25mg

Keywords: smashed sweet potatoes, whipped feta, lemon honey drizzle, roasted sweet potatoes, healthy side dish