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Parmesan Herb Sweet Potato Medallions

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I’ve always had a soft spot for recipes that take something simple and turn it into something a little magical. These Parmesan Herb Sweet Potato Medallions are exactly that. Sweet potatoes on their own are delicious, but when they’re roasted to golden perfection and topped with a creamy herb-infused cheese spread, something truly special happens. The natural sweetness of the potatoes contrasts beautifully with the sharp bite of red onion and the richness of Parmesan. It’s a dish that feels indulgent yet grounded in wholesome, fresh ingredients.

I started making these medallions as a side for holiday dinners, but they quickly found their way into weeknight meals and even weekend brunches. They’re easy to assemble, cook in under an hour, and look absolutely stunning when plated. Plus, they can easily be adapted based on what you have in the fridge. Whether you’re entertaining or just treating yourself to a cozy dinner, this is one of those dishes that never disappoints.

Why You’ll Love This Parmesan Herb Sweet Potato Medallions Recipe

From the very first bite, these sweet potato medallions offer a satisfying mix of creamy, crispy, and savory. The caramelized edges of the roasted sweet potato pair with the tangy herb spread and that satisfying umami kick from the Parmesan cheese. They’re naturally gluten-free, vegetarian, and packed with flavor — making them a hit with almost every kind of eater. Bonus: they look elegant enough to serve at a dinner party but come together with very little effort.

What Kind of Sweet Potatoes Should I Use?

For this recipe, go with classic orange-fleshed sweet potatoes. They’re slightly starchy, which helps them roast up with crispy edges while staying soft in the middle. Look for ones that are firm and evenly shaped, so you can cut them into even slices. Avoid overly large ones, as they tend to be harder to cook evenly — medium-sized sweet potatoes work best for consistent medallions.

Options for Substitutions

You can absolutely make this recipe your own. If you’re dairy-free, swap the Parmesan for a plant-based alternative and use a vegan cream cheese for the topping. Want to turn up the flavor? Add crushed garlic to the herb mix or sprinkle a little smoked paprika before roasting. Fresh chives, dill, or even cilantro can replace parsley, depending on your preference. And if you’re in a hurry, using pre-sliced sweet potato rounds from the store can save time without sacrificing flavor.


Ingredients for This Parmesan Herb Sweet Potato Medallions Recipe

  • Sweet Potatoes – These are the star of the dish, offering natural sweetness and a hearty texture that crisps up beautifully in the oven.
  • Olive Oil – Helps roast the medallions to golden perfection while enhancing flavor.
  • Salt & Pepper – Essential for seasoning and bringing out the depth of all the ingredients.
  • Parmesan Cheese – Adds a rich, nutty flavor and helps create a crispy, savory topping.
  • Cream Cheese or Sour Cream – Used as a base for the herby topping, offering creaminess and tang.
  • Fresh Parsley – Brings a vibrant, fresh note to balance the richness.
  • Red Onion – Thinly sliced for sharpness and crunch; adds contrast and color.
  • Paprika (optional) – A light dusting for warmth and subtle smokiness.

Step 1: Prep the Sweet Potatoes

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Wash and scrub your sweet potatoes thoroughly. Slice them into ½-inch thick rounds. Try to keep the thickness consistent so they cook evenly. Leave the skins on for texture and nutrition.

Step 2: Season and Arrange on a Baking Sheet

Place the sweet potato slices on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Drizzle generously with olive oil, then sprinkle with salt and pepper. Flip them to ensure both sides are well coated.

Step 3: Roast the Medallions

Roast in the preheated oven for 25–30 minutes, flipping them halfway through. They should be fork-tender with golden-brown edges. If you like them extra crispy, roast for an additional 5 minutes.

Step 4: Prepare the Herb Topping

While the medallions are roasting, mix the cream cheese or sour cream in a bowl with chopped fresh parsley, a pinch of salt, and cracked pepper. Add a dash of paprika for an extra pop of flavor if desired.

Step 5: Assemble the Medallions

Once the sweet potatoes are done, let them cool slightly. Spoon a dollop of the herb mixture onto each medallion. Top with a few slices of red onion, a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese, and a touch more parsley.

Step 6: Final Touch (Optional)

Place the assembled medallions under the broiler for 2–3 minutes if you want the Parmesan slightly melted and golden. Keep a close eye to avoid burning.


How Long to Prepare the Parmesan Herb Sweet Potato Medallions

Prep Time: The hands-on prep takes about 10–15 minutes. This includes washing and slicing the sweet potatoes, mixing up the herb topping, and arranging everything on a baking sheet. It’s a quick and easy process, especially if you have a sharp knife and a good rhythm in the kitchen.

Cooking Time: Roasting the medallions takes about 25–30 minutes, depending on your oven and the thickness of your slices. Add an optional 2–3 minutes under the broiler if you want to brown the Parmesan topping. In total, you’re looking at around 35–40 minutes from start to finish.


Tips for Perfect Parmesan Herb Sweet Potato Medallions

  • Use medium-sized sweet potatoes for more consistent medallion sizes.
  • Make sure the slices are uniformly thick (about ½ inch) so they cook evenly.
  • Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet—give each slice space to caramelize.
  • Freshly grated Parmesan melts and crisps better than pre-grated.
  • Let the medallions cool slightly before topping so the herb mixture doesn’t melt immediately.

Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

  • Slicing too thick or too thin: Inconsistent sizes will cause uneven cooking.
  • Skipping the flip: Not turning the slices halfway may result in one soggy side.
  • Too little oil: This can cause the medallions to dry out instead of roast.
  • Overloading with toppings: A little goes a long way—balance is key.
  • Forgetting the broiler: If you want that golden cheese finish, a few minutes under the broiler makes a difference.

What to Serve With Parmesan Herb Sweet Potato Medallions?

1. Grilled Chicken Thighs

Juicy and flavorful grilled chicken complements the sweet-savory flavor of the medallions beautifully.

2. A Fresh Arugula Salad

The peppery bite of arugula dressed in lemon vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast.

3. Seared Salmon

A tender filet of salmon adds richness and Omega-3s, pairing well with the creamy herb topping.

4. Roasted Brussels Sprouts

Their earthy flavor and crispy edges work great alongside the sweetness of the sweet potatoes.

5. Fried or Poached Eggs

Make it a brunch-worthy plate by adding eggs on top or on the side.


Storage Instructions

Refrigeration: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. They hold up well and can be enjoyed cold or reheated.

Reheating: Warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 8–10 minutes or until heated through. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can make the sweet potatoes soggy.

Freezing: You can freeze the roasted medallions before topping. Let them cool completely, then freeze in a single layer. Reheat in the oven directly from frozen, then add the toppings fresh before serving.


Estimated Nutrition (Per Serving – Approx. 2 Medallions)

  • Calories: 180 kcal
  • Protein: 4g
  • Fat: 10g
  • Saturated Fat: 4g
  • Carbohydrates: 18g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Sugar: 5g
  • Sodium: 210mg
  • Cholesterol: 15mg

Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the best way to slice sweet potatoes evenly?

Using a sharp chef’s knife and a sturdy cutting board helps. You can also use a mandoline if you’re confident and careful.

Can I make these medallions ahead of time?

Yes! Roast the medallions in advance and store them in the fridge. Assemble with toppings just before serving or reheat first.

Can I make these vegan?

Definitely. Use vegan Parmesan and a dairy-free cream cheese alternative.

Are sweet potatoes healthier than regular potatoes?

They’re different but both are nutritious. Sweet potatoes are higher in Vitamin A and have a lower glycemic index.

Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh parsley?

Yes, but use less—about 1 teaspoon of dried herbs in place of 1 tablespoon fresh. The flavor will be more concentrated.


Conclusion

Parmesan Herb Sweet Potato Medallions are the perfect balance of wholesome and indulgent. They’re simple enough for a weeknight side but stylish enough for a holiday table. With crispy edges, creamy herb topping, and a pop of color, they’re as delightful to eat as they are to look at. Whether you’re serving a crowd or just treating yourself, these medallions are bound to become a repeat favorite in your recipe rotation.


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Parmesan Herb Sweet Potato Medallions


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  • Author: Sally Thompson
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

A show-stopping yet simple dish, these Parmesan Herb Sweet Potato Medallions combine the natural sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes with a rich herb-infused topping and a savory sprinkle of Parmesan. Perfect for quick breakfast ideas, easy dinner sides, or even healthy snack options, this easy recipe is a fantastic way to elevate everyday ingredients into a flavorful masterpiece. Whether you’re looking for dinner ideas or just fresh food ideas to impress guests, this is a go-to that delivers on taste and looks every time.


Ingredients

Scale

1 ½ pounds sweet potatoes

2 tablespoons olive oil

½ teaspoon salt

¼ teaspoon black pepper

⅓ cup grated Parmesan cheese

½ cup cream cheese or sour cream

2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

¼ small red onion, thinly sliced

¼ teaspoon paprika (optional)


Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Wash and scrub sweet potatoes thoroughly. Slice into ½-inch thick rounds, leaving the skin on.

2. Place sweet potato slices on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Flip to coat both sides evenly.

3. Roast for 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and tender. Roast 5 more minutes for extra crispiness if desired.

4. While roasting, mix cream cheese or sour cream with parsley, a pinch of salt, pepper, and optional paprika.

5. Once sweet potatoes are slightly cooled, spoon the herb mixture on top of each medallion.

6. Add red onion slices and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and more parsley.

7. Optional: Place under broiler for 2–3 minutes to slightly melt and brown the cheese.

Notes

Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor and texture.

Don’t skip flipping the medallions halfway through roasting—they’ll brown better.

If prepping ahead, roast the sweet potatoes first and add toppings just before serving.

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Side Dish
  • Method: Roasting
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 2 medallions
  • Calories: 180
  • Sugar: 5g
  • Sodium: 210mg
  • Fat: 10g
  • Saturated Fat: 4g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 5g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 18g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 4g
  • Cholesterol: 15mg

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