If you’re on the hunt for a side dish that effortlessly combines crispy edges with tender, flavorful centers, then the Parmesan Herb Sweet Potato Medallions Recipe is about to become your new obsession. These golden rounds of sweet potatoes, coated in savory herbs and finished with a generous sprinkle of Parmesan cheese, create a delightful balance of sweet, salty, and earthy flavors that elevate any meal. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a festive gathering, this recipe delivers comfort and elegance in every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are refreshingly simple, yet each plays an essential role in crafting the rich taste, crispy texture, and vibrant color that make this dish shine. Fresh herbs, aromatic spices, and real Parmesan cheese turn humble sweet potatoes into something truly special.
- 2 large sweet potatoes: Peeled and sliced into 1/4-inch rounds to ensure perfect cooking and beautiful medallion shapes.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Helps the medallions crisp up beautifully while adding a subtle fruitiness.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Adds a warm, savory undertone that complements the sweetness of the potatoes.
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika: Brings a gentle smokiness and gorgeous color to the medallions.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors and balances the natural sweetness.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Offers a mild bite to keep things interesting.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Creates a golden, crispy crust that’s packed with nutty, cheesy goodness.
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped: Adds a fresh, herbaceous finish to brighten the dish just before serving.
How to Make Parmesan Herb Sweet Potato Medallions Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Sweet Potatoes
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup a breeze. While the oven heats up, peel your sweet potatoes and slice them into quarter-inch thick rounds. This thickness is ideal for balancing tenderness with that coveted crispy exterior.
Step 2: Toss with Olive Oil and Spices
In a large mixing bowl, coat the sweet potato slices evenly with olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. This step infuses each medallion with bursts of savory flavor and helps the slices brown beautifully in the oven.
Step 3: Bake the Sweet Potato Medallions
Arrange the seasoned slices in a single layer on your prepared baking sheet. Bake for 20 minutes, allowing the sweet potatoes to soften slightly and begin developing a golden hue, which is the first hint that deliciousness is underway.
Step 4: Flip and Add Parmesan
Carefully flip each medallion to expose the other side. Now sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese generously across the tops. Return the baking sheet to the oven and bake for an additional 10 to 12 minutes. This step forms a beautifully crisp, cheesy crust that gives the dish its signature appeal.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve Warm
Once out of the oven, scatter fresh parsley over the medallions. The vibrant green flecks add freshness and a pop of color, perfectly complementing the savory, cheesy sweet potatoes. Serve these warm to enjoy their melt-in-your-mouth texture fully.
How to Serve Parmesan Herb Sweet Potato Medallions Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like parsley or even chives can enhance the aroma and appearance wonderfully. A light drizzle of balsamic glaze or a sprinkle of chili flakes can also add exciting flavor contrasts. Don’t be afraid to experiment with spice or zest to make the dish your own.
Side Dishes
These medallions shine alongside roasted chicken, grilled steak, or pan-seared fish. For a vegetarian meal, pair them with a crisp green salad or sautéed greens. Their sweet and savory nature helps balance protein-forward dishes and adds a comforting texture that’s hard to resist.
Creative Ways to Present
Arrange the Parmesan Herb Sweet Potato Medallions Recipe in a layered stack topped with dollops of herbed yogurt or a tangy sour cream dip. Alternatively, offer them as finger foods with a side of spicy aioli during a party. They also make a stunning addition to a vibrant grain bowl, bringing both depth and crunch.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Allow the medallions to cool completely before placing them in an airtight container. Stored in the refrigerator, they will stay fresh for up to 3 days, making them perfect for quick weeknight meals or lunchbox additions.
Freezing
For longer storage, freeze the cooled medallions in a single layer on a baking sheet first, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 2 months without losing much texture or flavor.
Reheating
Reheat the medallions in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10 minutes or until warmed through and crisp on the edges. Avoid microwaving if you want to preserve that irresistible crunch and golden crust.
FAQs
Can I use regular potatoes instead of sweet potatoes?
Absolutely! While sweet potatoes provide natural sweetness and a vibrant color, regular potatoes will work too — just expect a different flavor profile that’s more earthy and less sweet.
Is it necessary to peel the sweet potatoes?
Peeling the sweet potatoes helps create a smooth texture and lets the seasonings stick better, but if you prefer a bit more rustic texture and fiber, leaving the skin on is perfectly fine.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
Yes! Simply substitute the Parmesan cheese with a vegan cheese alternative or nutritional yeast for that cheesy flavor without dairy.
What can I use if I don’t have paprika?
Smoked or sweet paprika contributes warmth and color, but you can swap it with a pinch of cayenne for heat or ground cumin for a different earthy undertone.
How do I know when the medallions are perfectly cooked?
They’re ready when the edges turn golden and crisp, the Parmesan cheese forms a bubbly crust, and a fork slides easily into the slices without resistance.
Final Thoughts
If you want a dish that’s as cozy as it is impressive, the Parmesan Herb Sweet Potato Medallions Recipe fits the bill beautifully. It’s a recipe that feels like a warm hug on a plate, bursting with flavor and simple enough to whip up any night of the week. Next time you’re craving something deliciously different yet comforting, give this recipe a try — your taste buds will thank you!
Print
Parmesan Herb Sweet Potato Medallions Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 32 minutes
- Total Time: 47 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
These Parmesan Herb Sweet Potato Medallions are a flavorful, crispy baked side dish featuring tender sweet potato slices coated in a blend of garlic, paprika, and Parmesan cheese. Perfectly seasoned and oven-baked to golden perfection, they make a delicious and healthy accompaniment to any meal.
Ingredients
Sweet Potato Medallions
- 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and sliced into 1/4-inch rounds
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to ensure the sweet potatoes don’t stick and bake evenly.
- Season the sweet potatoes: In a large bowl, toss the peeled and sliced sweet potatoes with olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper until each medallion is well coated with the seasoning mixture.
- Bake the medallions – first side: Arrange the sweet potato slices in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes to start softening and crisping up the edges.
- Flip and add cheese: Carefully flip the medallions over, then sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese evenly on top before placing the baking sheet back in the oven for an additional 10 to 12 minutes, until the cheese is golden and the sweet potatoes are cooked through and slightly crispy.
- Garnish and serve: Remove from oven and garnish with freshly chopped parsley. Serve these medallions warm as a delicious side dish.
Notes
- For best results, slice the sweet potatoes evenly to ensure uniform cooking.
- You can substitute Parmesan with Pecorino Romano for a sharper flavor.
- These medallions can be enjoyed as a snack or a side dish with grilled meats or vegetarian entrees.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; reheat in the oven to retain crispness.
