These baked sweet potatoes are topped with sour cream, fresh parsley, thinly sliced red onion, and a sprinkle of paprika that create a perfect balance of savory, creamy, and slightly earthy flavors. The natural sweetness of the baked potatoes pairs beautifully with the tangy sour cream, the freshness of the parsley, and the sharp flavor of red onion. This dish is a delicious and satisfying side for any meal.
If you’re looking to switch up your usual potato side dish, consider trying baked sweet potatoes instead of regular baked potatoes the next time you’re in the mood for something comforting and delicious. Sweet potatoes offer a unique flavor profile that is both sweet and savory, making them a versatile addition to any meal.
Sweet potatoes are incredibly versatile and can be used in a variety of dishes, both savory and sweet. You can bake them whole for a simple side dish, roast them with herbs for a flavorful addition to any meal, or turn them into crispy sweet potato fries.
They also work well in casseroles, mashed with butter and spices, or stuffed with ingredients like beans, quinoa, and cheese. For a sweet treat, sweet potatoes can be used in pies, muffins, and even pancakes, bringing natural sweetness and moisture to baked goods.
Sweet potatoes are great in desserts. We love this Southern Sweet Potato Pie with Bourbon Whipped Cream. This is an amazing pie recipe that you can make all year round, but especially during the holidays.
Nutritional Benefits of Baked Sweet Potatoes
Sweet potatoes are packed with essential nutrients, making them a fantastic choice for anyone looking to boost their diet with a nutrient-dense food. Here’s why baked sweet potatoes deserve a spot on your plate:
Health Benefits of Sweet Potatoes
Not only are sweet potatoes delicious, but they are also healthy and an excellent source of vitamins and minerals, including:
- Vitamin A: A powerful antioxidant, vitamin A promotes good vision, supports the immune system, and is crucial for healthy skin. One medium baked sweet potato provides more than 100% of your daily recommended intake of vitamin A.
- Vitamin C: Another important antioxidant, vitamin C helps the body heal wounds, supports the immune system, and enhances iron absorption. A baked sweet potato provides a good dose of this essential nutrient.
- Potassium: This mineral helps regulate fluid balance, supports nerve and muscle function, and lowers blood pressure. Sweet potatoes are naturally rich in potassium, which is important for heart health.
- B Vitamins: Sweet potatoes also contain significant amounts of B vitamins like B6, which is important for brain function and the production of red blood cells.
- Rich in Fiber: Fiber is crucial for maintaining healthy digestion, and baked sweet potatoes are an excellent source. The high fiber content helps regulate bowel movements, prevent constipation, and supports gut health. Additionally, fiber can help lower cholesterol levels and promote a feeling of fullness, making sweet potatoes an excellent choice for weight management.
- Naturally Low in Fat and Calories: Baked sweet potatoes are a great low-calorie option for anyone watching their weight. One medium baked sweet potato has only about 100-120 calories, depending on its size, making it an ideal food for a balanced, low-fat meal. When baked without added fats, they are also naturally low in fat.
Ingredients you will need for this recipe:
- 4 medium sweet potatoes (8 to 10 ounces each), scrubbed and left damp
- 1-2 tablespoons of vegetable or olive oil
- Sea salt
- ½ cup sour cream
- ¼ cup thinly sliced red onion
- 1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh parsley
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- Salt and black pepper
RECIPE NOTES: Try to use the same size potatoes for even baking. We calculated 1/2 of a sweet potato for each serving. However, if your sweet potatoes are on the smaller size, you may want to serve a whole potato per person which would yield 4 servings.
How to make baked sweet potatoes:
Preheat your oven 400°F and position a rack in the middle. Wash and scrub the potatoes and dry them.
Use a rimmed baking sheet and line it with parchment paper, then give it a light drizzle with olive or vegetable oil.
Use a sharp chef’s knife and cut sweet potatoes in half lengthwise, be careful, sweet potatoes can be tough to slice.
Coat both sides of each half with a little oil and sprinkle with sea salt.
Place the sweet potatoes cut side down on the parchment paper.
Place them in the oven for about 25-30 minutes. Keep in mind that cooking times can vary based on the size of your sweet potatoes.
To check if they’re done, the skins should begin to look shriveled and soft and should peel away easily. You can also insert a fork into the largest potato, if it inserts easily, they are done. When you flip them, the insides should be tender, and the edges should have a caramelized look.
Once the potatoes are done top with 1/2 cup sour cream, 1/4 cup thinly sliced red onion, 1 tablespoon of fresh parsley, 1/2 teaspoon paprika, black pepper, and sea salt (if needed). Enjoy!
If you prefer a more savor dish, we recommend our amazing Asparagus and Brie Puff Pastry. It’s so simple to make and it is delicious!
Baked Sweet Potato with Sour Cream Recipe
These baked sweet potatoes are topped with sour cream, fresh parsley, thinly sliced red onion, and a sprinkle of paprika that create a perfect balance of savory, creamy, and slightly earthy flavors.
Ingredients
- 4 medium sweet potatoes (8 to 10 ounces each), scrubbed and left damp
- 1-2 tablespoons of vegetable or olive oil
- Sea salt
- ½ cup sour cream
- ¼ cup thinly sliced red onion
- 1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh parsley
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- Salt and black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat your oven 400°F and position a rack in the middle.
Wash and scrub the 4 sweet potatoes and dry them. - Use a rimmed baking sheet and line it with parchment paper, then give it a light drizzle with olive or vegetable oil.
- Use a sharp chef's knife and cut sweet potatoes in half lengthwise, be careful, sweet potatoes can be tough to slice. Coat both sides of each half with a little oil and sprinkle with sea salt.
- Place the sweet potatoes cut side down on the parchment paper. Place them in the oven for about 25-30 minutes. Keep in mind that cooking times can vary based on the size of your sweet potatoes.
- To check if they’re done, the skins should begin to look shriveled and soft and should peel away easily. You can also insert a fork into the largest potato, if it inserts easily, they are done. When you flip them, the insides should be tender, and the edges should have a caramelized look.
- Once the potatoes are done top with 1/2 cup sour cream, 1/4 cup thinly sliced red onion, 1 tablespoon of fresh parsley, 1/2teaspoon paprika, black pepper, and sea salt (if needed). Enjoy!
Notes
Try to use the same size potatoes for even baking. We calculated 1/2 of a sweet potato for each serving. However, if your sweet potatoes are on the smaller size, you may want to serve a whole potato per person which would yield 4 servings.
Nutrition Information:
Yield: 8 Serving Size: 1Amount Per Serving: Calories: 101Total Fat: 5gSaturated Fat: 2gTrans Fat: 0gUnsaturated Fat: 2gCholesterol: 8mgSodium: 1043mgCarbohydrates: 14gFiber: 2gSugar: 5gProtein: 2g
The nutritional information provided for the recipes on this blog is an estimate and is based on standard ingredient portions. Actual nutritional values may vary depending on factors such as ingredient brands, portion sizes, and preparation methods. For precise dietary needs or concerns, please consult a healthcare professional or nutritionist.
