1-Getting roasted sweet potatoes right: starts with a few simple steps that anyone can follow, even if you’re new to cooking. Begin by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C) and preparing your baking sheet for even roasting. This high heat helps create that crispy exterior while keeping the inside tender and flavorful. Follow along for a straightforward process that delivers great results.

2-Next, prepare the sweet potatoes by peeling and cutting them into 1/2-inch pieces for uniform cooking. For the plain version, toss the pieces with 2 tablespoons melted coconut oil, 3/4 teaspoon salt, and 1 tablespoon firmly packed light brown sugar in a large bowl. If you prefer the seasoned option, mix in 2 tablespoons olive oil, 3/4 teaspoon salt, 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, 1/2 teaspoon ground chili powder, 1/2 teaspoon paprika, 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin, and 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder instead.

3-Spread the coated sweet potatoes evenly on a large sheet pan to avoid overcrowding, which can lead to steaming instead of roasting. Pop them into the preheated oven and roast for 27 to 35 minutes, tossing every 10 to 15 minutes to promote even cooking and caramelization. Once done, check for tenderness they should be soft inside with a nice golden crisp on the outside. For dietary tweaks, you can swap oils or seasonings as needed to fit your preferences.