Crispy baked sweet-potato wedges with paprika and brown sugar!
These sweet-potato wedges deliver sweet-savory crunch perfect for holidays. Ready in 35 minutes, they pair beautifully with turkey or ham.
Whether you're hosting Thanksgiving or a cozy family dinner, these wedges add vibrant color and flavor. The paprika-brown sugar glaze creates a caramelized crust while keeping the interior tender.
Make them ahead and reheat for effortless serving. Kids and adults will love the crispy texture and balanced sweetness.
This recipe includes pro tips for perfect results, storage instructions, and creative variations to keep your meals exciting year-round.
Ready to master this crowd-pleaser? Let's dive into why these wedges deserve a place on your holiday table!
Why This Recipe Works
Sweet-Savory Balance
Paprika adds smoky depth while brown sugar creates a caramelized crust. This perfect balance satisfies both sweet and savory cravings.
Quick Make-Ahead
Bake ahead and reheat at 350°F for 10-15 minutes. Ideal for stress-free holiday hosting.
Crowd-Pleasing
The crispy texture and vibrant color make these wedges a hit with both kids and adults at any gathering.
Versatile Side
Pair with turkey, ham, or vegan mains. The sweet flavor complements rich proteins beautifully.
Baked Sweet-Potato Wedges Recipe
Sweet-savory holiday crunch in 35 minutes!
Ingredients
- - 4 large sweet potatoes (about 2 lbs)
- - 2 tbsp olive oil
- - 1 tsp smoked paprika
- - 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- - 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
- - 2 tbsp brown sugar
- - 1/4 tsp salt
- - Fresh thyme or rosemary for garnish
Instructions
Prep Sweet Potatoes: Wash, peel (optional), and cut into 1-inch wedges. Place on parchment-lined baking sheets.
💡 Tip: Uniform size ensures even baking
Make the Glaze: Whisk olive oil, paprika, cinnamon, cayenne (if using), brown sugar, and salt in a bowl until smooth.
💡 Tip: Adjust sweetness by adding more brown sugar
Season and Bake: Toss wedges with glaze until coated. Bake at 425°F (220°C) for 20 minutes, flipping halfway.
💡 Tip: For extra crunch, broil 2-3 minutes at end
Garnish: Sprinkle fresh herbs before serving. Serve warm with favorite mains!
💡 Tip: Add a squeeze of lime for brightness
Nutrition (per serving):
Ingredient Notes & Substitutions
Sweet Potatoes
Their natural sugars caramelize beautifully. Use orange-fleshed varieties for best results.
Substitutions: Regular potatoes (less sweet), yams (similar texture)
Olive Oil
Provides crispiness and carries flavors. Use high-smoke-point oil like avocado oil.
Substitutions: Canola oil, melted butter
Paprika
Adds smoky depth without heat. Use sweet paprika for milder flavor.
Substitutions: Smoked paprika, chili powder
Brown Sugar
Creates the signature sweet crust. Light or dark brown sugar both work.
Substitutions: Maple syrup, honey
Pro Tips for Perfect Baked Sweet-Potato Wedges
Perfect Bites
Cut wedges evenly for uniform baking. Aim for 1-inch thickness.
Optimal Baking
High heat (425°F) ensures crispy exterior while keeping interiors tender.
Flavor Boost
Add a squeeze of lime or lemon juice after baking for bright acidity.
Serving Hack
Place on warm serving tray to maintain crispiness until guests arrive.
Variations & Customizations
Spicy Maple
Add 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper and substitute maple syrup for brown sugar.
Herb Butter
Mix softened butter with rosemary, garlic, and Parmesan for a savory twist.
Sweet & Salty
Sprinkle with flaky sea salt and a drizzle of honey after baking.
Global Fusion
Add curry powder or za'atar for international flair.
Serving Suggestions & Pairings
🍽️ Best Served With:
- Roast turkey with herb gravy - The sweet-savory contrast is perfect
- Herb-roasted ham - Complements the paprika flavor
- Quinoa salad with cranberries - Adds protein and tartness
🍷 Drink Pairings:
Pair with a crisp white wine like Chardonnay or a spiced cider to balance the sweetness.
Make-Ahead Instructions & Storage
Make-Ahead Tips
Prepare up to 24 hours ahead. Store in airtight container at room temperature.
Refrigerator Storage
Keep in fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat at 350°F for 10-15 minutes.
Freezer Storage
Freeze cooked wedges for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in fridge before reheating.
Reheating Instructions
For best results, use oven instead of microwave to maintain crispiness.
Troubleshooting & Common Questions
Q: Why aren't my wedges crispy?
A: Ensure oven is fully preheated. Don't overcrowd the baking sheet.
Q: Can I use sweet potatoes from the fridge?
A: Yes, but bring to room temperature first for even baking.
Q: How to prevent sticking?
A: Use parchment paper and don't skip the oil coating.
Q: Can I double the recipe?
A: Yes, but use two baking sheets to avoid uneven cooking.
Final Thoughts
These baked sweet-potato wedges are more than just a side dish—they're a showstopper that brings holiday tables to life. With their perfect balance of sweetness and spice, they're sure to become a family favorite year after year.
Whether you're serving a traditional Thanksgiving dinner or a cozy weekend meal, these wedges add vibrant color and flavor that everyone will love. Don't forget to share your favorite variations in the comments!
