Caramelized Sweet Potatoes with Maple, Feta & Crunchy Walnuts

These Caramelized Sweet Potatoes with Maple, Feta, and Crunchy Walnuts are a flavor-packed side dish that brings together sweet, savory, and nutty elements in every bite. Roasted to perfection, the sweet potatoes become golden and crisp on the edges, then topped with tangy feta, toasted walnuts, and a sprinkle of fresh parsley. It’s the kind of dish I love making when I want something easy yet elegant to serve at the table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it takes a few humble ingredients and turns them into something truly special. The maple syrup brings out the natural sweetness of the potatoes, while the cinnamon and nutmeg give it a warm, autumn-inspired flavor. The salty feta and crunchy walnuts balance everything beautifully, and that final touch of parsley adds brightness and color. It’s a perfect addition to any fall dinner, holiday spread, or weeknight meal.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 3 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into cubes

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup

• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon

• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg

• 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)

• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

• 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese

• 1/3 cup walnuts, toasted and roughly chopped

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Directions

1. I preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. In a large bowl, I toss the sweet potato cubes with olive oil, maple syrup, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and pepper until everything is evenly coated.

3. I spread the sweet potatoes out in a single layer on the baking sheet to ensure even roasting.

4. I roast for 25–30 minutes, flipping them halfway through, until they’re fork-tender and caramelized around the edges.

5. Once roasted, I transfer the sweet potatoes to a serving dish.

6. I sprinkle the warm potatoes with crumbled feta and toasted walnuts.

7. I finish it off with a generous handful of chopped fresh parsley and serve while warm.

Servings and timing

• Servings: 4

• Prep time: 10 minutes

• Cook time: 30 minutes

• Total time: 40 minutes

• Calories: ~235 kcal per serving

Variations

• I sometimes add a drizzle of balsamic glaze for a sweet-tangy finish.

• For a smoky note, I sprinkle in a pinch of smoked paprika with the spices.

• I use goat cheese instead of feta for a creamier texture and milder flavor.

• To make it vegan, I skip the feta or use a dairy-free alternative.

Storage/Reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, I warm them in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10–15 minutes or heat briefly in a skillet over medium heat to bring back some crispiness. I avoid the microwave if I want to preserve the texture.

FAQs

Can I use pre-cut sweet potatoes?

Yes, I often use pre-cut sweet potatoes to save time—just make sure they’re evenly sized for even cooking.

Can I make this ahead of time?

I roast the sweet potatoes ahead, then reheat them just before serving and add the feta, walnuts, and parsley fresh for the best texture.

What other nuts can I use?

I’ve used pecans and almonds with great results. Toasted hazelnuts also add a nice crunch and flavor.

Is this dish good for holiday meals?

Absolutely. It’s a perfect side dish for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any festive dinner. The balance of sweet and savory works well alongside classic mains.

Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh parsley?

If I don’t have fresh parsley, I use a pinch of dried parsley or thyme. Fresh herbs give better color and brightness, but dried works in a pinch.

Conclusion

Caramelized Sweet Potatoes with Maple, Feta & Crunchy Walnuts is a beautiful, balanced side dish that brings bold flavor and texture to any meal. I love how simple it is to prepare, yet it feels so gourmet on the plate. Whether I’m hosting a holiday dinner or just cooking something special on a weeknight, this recipe never disappoints.