These Sweet Potato Nuggets are a fun and tasty treat! They’re crispy on the outside and soft inside, making them perfect for kids and adults alike. Plus, they’re packed with goodness!
I love making these nuggets for a snack or side dish. You can dip them in your favorite sauce and enjoy every bite—so yummy! Trust me, you’ll want to make extra. 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Sweet Potatoes: These are the star of the dish, bringing natural sweetness and creaminess. You can substitute with butternut squash for a similar flavor profile.
Breadcrumbs: I recommend using panko for extra crunch but regular breadcrumbs work too. If you’re gluten-free, try almond flour or crushed gluten-free crackers.
Parmesan Cheese: For flavor, Parmesan is great, but nutritional yeast is an excellent dairy-free alternative if you’re vegan. It adds a nice cheesy taste without milk.
Egg: To bind the ingredients, the egg helps hold everything together. If you want a vegan option, use a flaxseed meal: mix one tablespoon of flaxseed with three tablespoons of water, let it sit for a few minutes until it thickens.
Spices: The seasoning is essential! Feel free to swap the smoked paprika with regular paprika or even chili powder for a kick!
How Can I Get the Nuggets Extra Crispy?
Getting that perfect crispy texture requires a few tips. First, make sure to drain the sweet potatoes well after boiling. Too much moisture can lead to soggy nuggets!
- Fry in small batches to avoid overcrowding in the pan, which helps them brown evenly.
- Don’t rush the cooking time; 3-4 minutes on each side on medium heat gives a golden crust.
- Let them cool on paper towels after frying to absorb any excess oil and maintain crispiness.
Enjoy making and munching on these healthy Sweet Potato Nuggets! They’re super easy and tasty!
Sweet Potato Nuggets Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 medium sweet potatoes (about 2 cups mashed)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
- 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme or Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 2-3 tbsp olive oil or avocado oil (for frying)
- Optional: a pinch of red pepper flakes for some heat
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 30 minutes total. You’ll need about 10-15 minutes for preparation (peeling, boiling, and mashing the sweet potatoes) and another 15 minutes for cooking the nuggets in batches. Easy peasy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Sweet Potatoes:
Start by peeling and dicing the sweet potatoes into chunks. Boil or steam them in a pot for about 10-15 minutes, or until they are very tender when pierced with a fork.
2. Mash the Sweet Potatoes:
Once softened, drain the sweet potatoes and place them in a large bowl. Use a fork or a masher to mash them until smooth, ensuring there are no lumps.
3. Mix in the Ingredients:
Add the egg, minced garlic, smoked paprika, thyme (or Italian seasoning), salt, black pepper, and grated Parmesan cheese to the mashed sweet potatoes. Stir in the breadcrumbs until the mixture is well combined. You want it to be firm enough to shape into nuggets. If it feels too wet, sprinkle in a bit more breadcrumbs.
4. Shape the Nuggets:
Using your hands, scoop out some of the mixture and shape it into small nugget patties, about 1 to 1.5 inches wide. Set them aside on a plate or cutting board.
5. Cooking the Nuggets:
Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Carefully add a few nuggets at a time to the pan, making sure not to overcrowd them. Fry them for about 3-4 minutes on each side or until they become golden brown and crispy.
6. Finish and Serve:
Once cooked, remove the nuggets from the skillet and place them on paper towels to drain excess oil. Serve them warm with your favorite dipping sauce, like chipotle mayo, ranch, or a zesty yogurt dip!
Enjoy your crispy, savory Sweet Potato Nuggets as a delightful snack or side dish!
Can I Use Different Types of Potatoes?
Yes! While sweet potatoes are best for this recipe, you can use regular potatoes or even butternut squash for a different flavor. Just be sure to adjust the boiling time as needed!
How Can I Store Leftover Nuggets?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat them in a skillet over medium heat to help retain their crispy texture, or you can microwave them but be aware they may become soft.
Can I Bake These Instead of Frying?
Absolutely! To bake them, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the nuggets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, brush or spray with a little oil, and bake for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they’re golden and crispy.
What Dipping Sauces Pair Well with These Nuggets?
These nuggets are versatile! They pair well with a variety of dipping sauces such as ranch, chipotle mayo, barbecue sauce, or even a yogurt dill dip for a refreshing twist.