Roasted Sweet Potato Kale Skillet

Name: Roasted Sweet Potato Kale Skillet
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 medium sweet potatoes, diced; 1 bunch of kale, stems removed and chopped; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; 1/4 cup nuts (walnuts or pecans) for topping

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I absolutely love how this Roasted Sweet Potato Kale Skillet brings together vibrant flavors and hearty nutrition in one pan. The richness of the sweet potatoes combined with the earthy kale creates a comforting dish that is perfect for weeknight dinners. As we roast the sweet potatoes until they're golden and tender, the kale wilts just enough to retain some bite while soaking up all the flavors. This recipe is simple to prepare and is an excellent way to get in a healthy dose of veggies without sacrificing taste.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-15T15:46:21.151Z

When I first made this Roasted Sweet Potato Kale Skillet, I was amazed at how simple ingredients can result in such a delicious meal. The sweet potatoes caramelize beautifully in the oven, bringing out their natural sweetness, and the kale adds a lovely bitterness that balances it perfectly. I recommend ensuring that the sweet potatoes aren't overcrowded on the baking sheet for the best results.

Another tip I've discovered over time is to add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice just before serving. It brightens the dish and enhances the flavors of the roasted veggies. It’s a fantastic recipe for meal prep, as the leftovers hold up well in the fridge!

        Why You Will Love This Dish
        Hearty and nutritious, packed with vitamins and minerals
Easy to prepare with minimal cleanup required
Vegan and gluten-free, perfect for all dietary preferences

      

Maximizing Flavor with Spices

The blend of garlic powder and paprika in this Roasted Sweet Potato Kale Skillet is essential for enhancing the dish's overall flavor profile. The garlic powder adds a savory depth, while paprika introduces a subtle smokiness that complements the natural sweetness of the potatoes. For those who enjoy a bit of heat, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of smoked paprika for an extra layer of complexity.

Don't be shy about adjusting the seasoning to your taste! Sweet potatoes can absorb flavors remarkably well, so taste the seasoned oil before tossing it with the diced potatoes. If you find it lacking, feel free to add more spices—this is your chance to make the dish uniquely yours.

Perfecting the Texture

Achieving that ideal texture is key in this dish; you want your sweet potatoes to be tender yet slightly crispy on the edges. When spreading the sweet potatoes on the baking sheet, ensure they are arranged in a single layer with space between each piece. Crowding the pan can lead to steaming instead of roasting, which prevents the desired caramelization.

During the last five minutes of roasting, adding kale allows it to wilt while still retaining some bite. Look for vibrant, glossy leaves, signaling they’ve absorbed the flavors without becoming overly soft. If you prefer your kale more tender, you can toss it in a bit of olive oil and roast it alongside the sweet potatoes from the start—but be cautious not to overcook the kale.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to create a delightful and nutritious meal!

Ingredients

2 medium sweet potatoes, diced
1 bunch of kale, stems removed and chopped
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
1/4 cup nuts (walnuts or pecans) for topping

Having these ingredients ready will make the cooking process smooth and enjoyable.

Instructions

Follow these steps to prepare your delicious Roasted Sweet Potato Kale Skillet.

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).

Prepare Sweet Potatoes

Toss the diced sweet potatoes with olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Spread them in a single layer on a baking sheet.

Roast the Sweet Potatoes

Roast the sweet potatoes in the oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until they are tender and slightly caramelized.

Add the Kale

In the last 5 minutes of roasting, add the chopped kale to the baking sheet and toss everything together.

Serve

Once done, remove from the oven, top with nuts if desired, and serve warm.

Enjoy your flavorful skillet dish packed with nutrients!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding cherry tomatoes or chickpeas to the skillet.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have kale on hand, consider swapping it out with other hearty greens like Swiss chard or collard greens that can stand up to roasting. For a touch of color and added nutrients, you can also use baby spinach, but add it in the last 2-3 minutes of roasting to avoid overcooking.

For the nuts topping, walnuts and pecans are fantastic choices, but pine nuts, almonds, or even sunflower seeds can provide a lovely crunch. If nut allergies are a concern, you can simply skip the nuts or use toasted pumpkin seeds for a nut-free alternative.

Storing and Reheating

This skillet dish stores well in the refrigerator, making it a great meal prep option. After cooking, allow the skillet to cool completely before transferring the leftovers to an airtight container. It will stay fresh for about 3-4 days. When reheating, you can use the microwave, but for optimal texture, I recommend warming it up in a skillet over medium heat, allowing the sweet potatoes to regain their crispness.

If you're looking to make-ahead for busy weeknights, consider roasting a larger batch of sweet potatoes on the weekend. You can then mix them with freshly sautéed kale during the week for a quick meal that retains its deliciousness. Just be cautious not to reheat the kale too much, as it can become overly limp.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other greens instead of kale?

Yes, you can substitute kale with spinach or Swiss chard for different flavors and textures.

→ Is this dish suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This skillet can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 4 days.

→ Can I add protein to this dish?

Definitely! Grilled chicken, tofu, or beans can be added to boost the protein content.

→ What should I serve it with?

This dish pairs wonderfully with quinoa, rice, or even on its own as a light meal.