If you’re looking to bring a fresh twist to your dinner table that feels both comforting and elegant, this Parmesan Herb Sweet Potato Medallions Recipe is an absolute must-try. These beautiful rounds of sweet potatoes get a crispy, cheesy coating that’s bursting with herbaceous flavor and just the right touch of garlic and oregano. Whether as a side dish or a light snack, they deliver a satisfying combination of savory, sweet, and earthy notes, making every bite an irresistible experience you’ll want to repeat again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this dish lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a vital role, whether adding depth to flavor, enhancing the texture, or providing vibrant color. With just a handful of common pantry staples, you’ll be ready to whip up a dish that feels anything but ordinary.
- Sweet potatoes: Peeled and sliced into half-inch thick medallions, they provide a naturally sweet base with a tender interior and crisp edges when cooked perfectly.
- Grated Parmesan cheese: Brings a salty, nutty crunch that crisps up beautifully and infuses the medallions with rich umami goodness.
- Olive oil: Coats each medallion evenly to ensure a golden, crispy finish while bringing a subtle fruity flavor.
- Garlic powder: Offers a punch of savory depth without overpowering the natural sweetness of the potatoes.
- Onion powder: Adds a gentle sweetness and complexity to the seasoning.
- Dried oregano: This herb adds a Mediterranean flair that pairs perfectly with the parmesan and garlic.
- Salt and pepper: Essential seasonings that bring all the flavors together and heighten the overall taste.
- Fresh parsley or thyme (optional): Used as a garnish to add a burst of color and fresh herbal aroma.
How to Make Parmesan Herb Sweet Potato Medallions Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Sweet Potatoes
Start by peeling your sweet potatoes, then slice them into uniform half-inch thick medallions. Consistency here is key to ensure even cooking and perfect texture in every bite. Set them aside while you prepare the seasoning mix.
Step 2: Mix the Seasoning and Parmesan
In a large bowl, combine the grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. This mixture will coat the sweet potato medallions and deliver layers of flavor with a crispy, cheesy crust once cooked.
Step 3: Coat the Medallions
Drizzle olive oil over the sweet potato slices and toss to coat them evenly. Then, dredge each medallion through the Parmesan herb mixture, pressing lightly so the coating sticks well. This step guarantees a golden, flavorful crust that will have you reaching for seconds.
Step 4: Cook Until Golden and Tender
Heat a skillet over medium heat and place the coated medallions carefully, making sure not to overcrowd. Cook about 4-5 minutes per side until they develop a gorgeous golden brown crust and the inside becomes tender but not mushy. Alternatively, you can bake them in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through.
How to Serve Parmesan Herb Sweet Potato Medallions Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like parsley or thyme add a pop of vibrant color and an extra layer of fresh aroma that brightens the dish beautifully. A light sprinkle just before serving brings the medallions to life visually and taste-wise.
Side Dishes
These medallions pair wonderfully with a crisp green salad, roasted chicken, or grilled fish. Their naturally sweet and savory profile complements a variety of proteins and fresh vegetables, making them an incredibly versatile addition to any meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Try stacking a few medallions with a dollop of Greek yogurt or herbed sour cream between layers for a fun appetizer. You can also serve them alongside a dipping sauce like a tangy marinara or creamy garlic aioli to add extra bite and interest.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled completely, store leftover Parmesan Herb Sweet Potato Medallions in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They maintain their flavor well but will soften slightly over time.
Freezing
If you want to keep them longer, freeze the medallions in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. They freeze well for up to 2 months, ready to be baked or pan-fried later.
Reheating
For the best texture when reheating, pop the medallions in a hot oven or toaster oven at 375°F (190°C) for 10-15 minutes. This will help restore their crispy coating without drying them out, unlike microwaving which tends to make them soggy.
FAQs
Can I use regular potatoes instead of sweet potatoes?
Absolutely! While the flavor profile will be different, regular potatoes can work well with this Parmesan and herb coating. Just adjust your cooking time depending on the potato variety and thickness.
Is it necessary to peel the sweet potatoes?
Peeling is recommended for an even texture and appearance, but if you prefer, you can leave the skins on for added fiber and a rustic look. Just be sure to wash and dry them thoroughly first.
Can I bake the medallions instead of pan-frying?
Yes, baking is a great alternative and a bit easier on cleanup. Just spread the medallions on a baking sheet and roast at 400°F (200°C), flipping halfway through to ensure both sides get crispy.
What can I use if I don’t have Parmesan cheese?
Pecorino Romano or Asiago cheeses can be used as substitutes because they also melt well and add a similar savory, tangy flavor. You might need to adjust quantities slightly to your taste.
Are these medallions suitable for vegans?
The recipe as written uses Parmesan cheese which contains animal rennet, so it isn’t vegan-friendly. However, you can substitute with a plant-based vegan Parmesan to keep the recipe fully vegan while still enjoying that cheesy touch.
Final Thoughts
This Parmesan Herb Sweet Potato Medallions Recipe is a delightful way to elevate simple ingredients into something truly special. It’s one of those dishes that feels like a celebration of flavors and textures in every bite. I hope you enjoy making and sharing it as much as I do – it’s sure to become a favorite at your table too!
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Parmesan Herb Sweet Potato Medallions Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Crispy Parmesan Herb Sweet Potato Medallions are a delicious and easy side dish perfect for any meal. These oven-roasted sweet potato rounds are seasoned with garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, and topped with savory Parmesan cheese for a flavorful and satisfying treat. Garnished with fresh herbs, they add a colorful and nutritious twist to your plate.
Ingredients
Sweet Potato Medallions
- 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and sliced into ½ inch thick medallions
Seasoning and Topping
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional: Fresh parsley or thyme, for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure a hot environment for roasting the sweet potato medallions to a perfect crisp.
- Prepare Sweet Potatoes: Peel the sweet potatoes and slice them into ½ inch thick medallions. This thickness ensures even cooking and a desirable crispy exterior with a tender inside.
- Season the Medallions: In a large bowl, toss the sweet potato medallions with olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Make sure each piece is evenly coated with the seasonings for maximum flavor.
- Add Parmesan Cheese: Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the seasoned medallions, tossing gently to distribute the cheese evenly. The cheese will create a savory crust as the medallions bake.
- Arrange on Baking Sheet: Lay the medallions in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a lightly greased surface to prevent sticking and promote even roasting.
- Roast the Medallions: Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, flipping the medallions halfway through cooking. Roast until the edges are golden brown and crispy.
- Garnish and Serve: Once cooked, remove from the oven and garnish with fresh parsley or thyme if desired. Serve warm as a side dish or appetizer.
Notes
- For extra crispiness, ensure the sweet potato slices are evenly spaced and not overlapping on the baking sheet.
- You can substitute Parmesan with a vegan cheese alternative to make it suitable for vegan diets.
- Flavor variations can include adding smoked paprika or chili flakes for a spicy kick.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheat in the oven for best texture.
