Smoky Roasted Sweet Potatoes with Chipotle Mayo Recipe
There’s something magical about the combination of sweet, smoky, and spicy flavors, and Smoky Roasted Sweet Potatoes with Chipotle Mayo delivers all that—plus a pop of vibrant color—on one irresistible platter. Crispy on the edges, creamy inside, and punched up with a zingy, smoky kick from homemade chipotle mayo, this side dish could easily steal the show. Whether you’re serving them as a party snack, an everyday side, or even a meatless main, these sweet potatoes will have everyone coming back for more.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Everything in this recipe has a purpose—from the golden sweetness of the potatoes to the sultry depth of smoked paprika and the fiery, creamy counterpoint that is chipotle mayo. Don’t skip or substitute unless you have to; each piece of the puzzle makes the final dish sing with flavor, texture, and vivid color.
- Sweet potatoes: Pick firm, vibrant orange potatoes for that sweet base and satisfying contrast to the spicy mayo.
- Olive oil: Helps the spices stick, and makes the potatoes golden-crisp while roasting.
- Smoked paprika: This is where the smoky magic happens—be generous for maximum flavor!
- Ground cumin: Adds earthy, aromatic depth that balances the sweetness perfectly.
- Garlic powder: Gives a gentle savory note that wakes up all the other flavors.
- Salt: Essential for making the sweet potatoes and spices pop on your palate.
- Black pepper: Lends a subtle heat and balances out the sweetness and smoke.
- Mayonnaise: Forms the creamy base of the chipotle mayo (use Greek yogurt for a lighter twist).
- Chipotle peppers in adobo: Provide bold, smoky, and spicy notes—adjust the amount to tailor the heat.
- Lime juice: Brightens and lifts the mayo, making every bite zing.
- Fresh cilantro (optional): For a colorful finish and fresh, herby flavor right at the end.
How to Make Smoky Roasted Sweet Potatoes with Chipotle Mayo
Step 1: Prep the Sweet Potatoes
Peel and cut the sweet potatoes into 1-inch cubes. Uniform pieces ensure even roasting and that all those golden edges caramelize to perfection. It also makes every bite the ideal poppable size for dipping.
Step 2: Toss with Oil and Spices
In a large mixing bowl, drizzle the sweet potato cubes with olive oil. Sprinkle in smoked paprika, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Give everything a good toss so the sweet potatoes are evenly coated in that aromatic, fiery mixture. This spice layer is what sets Smoky Roasted Sweet Potatoes with Chipotle Mayo apart from the average sweet potato recipe.
Step 3: Roast to Perfection
Spread the seasoned sweet potatoes in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet. This ensures maximum crispiness—no steaming allowed! Roast in a preheated oven at 425°F (220°C) for 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway through so all sides get touching-the-pan goodness. When they’re tender and gorgeously caramelized, they’re ready for their close-up.
Step 4: Mix the Chipotle Mayo
While your sweet potatoes roast, stir together mayonnaise, finely minced chipotle peppers in adobo, and fresh lime juice in a small bowl. Taste and adjust the spice to your heart’s desire—add more chipotle for bolder flavor, or just a smidge for gentle warmth. This creamy, smoky dip is what takes the dish into seriously crave-worthy territory.
Step 5: Serve and Garnish
Pile your hot, crispy sweet potatoes onto a serving platter. Drizzle with chipotle mayo if you like it messy (in the best way), or serve the sauce on the side for dunking. Sprinkle plenty of fresh cilantro over the top for brightness and a pop of green. That’s it—Smoky Roasted Sweet Potatoes with Chipotle Mayo are ready for celebration!
How to Serve Smoky Roasted Sweet Potatoes with Chipotle Mayo
Garnishes
Finish your dish with a big shower of chopped fresh cilantro, something bright like finely diced red onion, or even a sprinkle of crumbled cotija cheese if you want a salty tang. For extra heat, minced fresh jalapeño or a dusting of chili powder makes a dramatic statement. These toppings not only look gorgeous—they layer in more flavor with every bite of Smoky Roasted Sweet Potatoes with Chipotle Mayo.
Side Dishes
These sweet potatoes pair perfectly with everything from grilled meats to hearty salads. Try them alongside grilled chicken, tacos, spicy black beans, or simple sautéed greens. Their balance of sweet, smoky, and spicy means they’re at home on a holiday table, at a casual BBQ, or just as a side that wakes up your weekly dinner routine.
Creative Ways to Present
Go beyond the basics! Turn Smoky Roasted Sweet Potatoes with Chipotle Mayo into playful appetizers by skewering the cubes cocktail-style, or make a “loaded” platter with avocado, slivered radishes, and a sprinkle of toasted pepitas. You can also pile them into warm tortillas for taco night or arrange over a bowl of grains for a nutrient-packed lunch bowl.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Pop any leftover Smoky Roasted Sweet Potatoes with Chipotle Mayo into an airtight container and keep them in the fridge for up to four days. Store the chipotle mayo separately so the potatoes stay as crisp as possible. It’s an easy way to meal-prep a flavorful side or build fast lunch bowls during the week.
Freezing
Sweet potatoes freeze surprisingly well! Cool the roasted cubes completely, then lay them out on a baking sheet and freeze until firm. Transfer to a freezer bag or container—they’ll keep for up to two months. Keep the chipotle mayo fresh in the fridge, since creamy sauces don’t freeze quite as happily.
Reheating
Want those delicious crispy edges back? Spread the sweet potato cubes on a baking sheet and roast in a hot oven (425°F/220°C) for about 10 minutes, or air-fry for a few minutes until sizzling. The flavors deepen and the texture snaps right back. Warm the chipotle mayo gently or serve cold for a satisfying, cool contrast.
FAQs
Can I make Smoky Roasted Sweet Potatoes with Chipotle Mayo vegan?
Absolutely! Simply swap your favorite vegan mayo or plain, unsweetened plant-based yogurt for the regular mayonnaise in the chipotle sauce. The sweet potatoes themselves are naturally vegan, so you’re all set.
What if I don’t have chipotle peppers in adobo?
Try using a dash of chipotle powder or smoked paprika in the mayo for a smoky note, and a pinch of cayenne if you like more heat. You can also use hot sauce with a smoky profile for a similar effect.
How spicy is the chipotle mayo?
It’s as spicy as you want it to be! Start with one chipotle pepper for moderate heat and add another for a bold kick. Always taste as you mix, and remember you can serve extra on the side for heat-seekers.
Can I air-fry the sweet potatoes instead of roasting?
Definitely! Toss the seasoned sweet potato cubes in your air fryer basket at 400°F (200°C) for about 15 to 18 minutes, shaking the basket halfway. They’ll come out crispy, golden, and perfect for Smoky Roasted Sweet Potatoes with Chipotle Mayo.
What other herbs can I use besides cilantro?
Chopped fresh parsley or a bit of chive both work beautifully. Even a little fresh mint or thinly sliced green onions can add a fun twist and more color to the finished dish.
Final Thoughts
If you haven’t tried Smoky Roasted Sweet Potatoes with Chipotle Mayo yet, you’re missing out on a seriously satisfying side that’s as easy to make as it is addictive. Give it a spot on your table soon—I can almost guarantee it’ll become one of your top go-to dishes for any gathering, or just when you want to treat yourself to something bold and unforgettable!
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Smoky Roasted Sweet Potatoes with Chipotle Mayo Recipe
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian, Gluten-Free
Description
These Smoky Roasted Sweet Potatoes with Chipotle Mayo are a deliciously flavorful side dish that will have everyone asking for seconds. The sweet potatoes are perfectly seasoned with a smoky spice blend and roasted to caramelized perfection, then served with a creamy and slightly spicy chipotle mayo.
Ingredients
Sweet Potatoes:
- 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon ground cumin
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Chipotle Mayo:
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 1–2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce (finely minced)
- 1 teaspoon lime juice
Garnish:
- Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Prepare sweet potatoes: Toss sweet potato cubes with olive oil, smoked paprika, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Spread on a baking sheet.
- Roast sweet potatoes: Roast for 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until tender and caramelized.
- Make chipotle mayo: Mix mayonnaise, chipotle peppers, and lime juice until smooth.
- Serve: Drizzle sweet potatoes with chipotle mayo. Garnish with cilantro.
Notes
- For a lighter version, use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise.
- To air-fry, cook sweet potatoes at 400°F (200°C) for 15–18 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.
- Adjust seasonings to taste.
- For extra smokiness, add a pinch of chili powder.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup roasted sweet potatoes with 1 tablespoon chipotle mayo
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 7 g
- Sodium: 320 mg
- Fat: 11 g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9.5 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 27 g
- Fiber: 4 g
- Protein: 2 g
- Cholesterol: 5 mg
