Roasted Sweet Potato with Goat Cheese, Pecans, and Honey

If you need a cozy, simple side dish that feels a little elevated without any extra work, this roasted sweet potato with honey goat cheese, toasted pecans, and a drizzle of hot honey is it.

It’s sweet, salty, creamy, and packed with fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants. Perfect for a weeknight dinner, a special gathering, or just when you want something easy but delicious.

Ingredients (for 2)

• 1 medium sweet potato
• 1 teaspoon olive oil
• 1/2 tablespoon butter
• 2 to 3 tablespoons honey goat cheese
• 2 tablespoons chopped pecans
• 1 teaspoon honey (or hot honey)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Prep the sweet potato
   • Drizzle the sweet potato with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
   • Wrap in foil and roast at 450°F for 20 to 30 minutes.
   • Shortcut option: stab the sweet potato a few times with a fork, microwave for 4 minutes, then place directly on the oven rack at 450°F for 10 minutes without foil.
2. Toast the pecans
   • While the sweet potato cooks, heat a small pan over low heat.
   • Add the pecans and toast for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are golden and fragrant.
3. Assemble
   • Cut open the sweet potato.
   • Add the butter, then a little extra salt and pepper if needed.
   • Dollop the goat cheese over the top.
   • Sprinkle with toasted pecans.
   • Drizzle with honey or hot honey.
4. Serve
   • Enjoy immediately while warm.

Why You’ll Love It

• Nutrient-dense: Sweet potatoes are rich in fiber, beta-carotene, and antioxidants that support gut health and immune function.
• Fast to make: Using the microwave shortcut gets this dish on the table in under 30 minutes.
• Elevated but easy: A few simple toppings make this feel restaurant-worthy without a lot of effort.
• Flexible: You can swap the pecans for walnuts or use maple syrup instead of honey depending on what you have on hand.

Tips for Success

• If using the microwave shortcut, make sure to place the sweet potato directly on the oven rack (no foil) so it gets a slightly crisp skin.
• Toasting the pecans is optional but really enhances the flavor.
• Use a flavored goat cheese like honey goat cheese to add extra sweetness without needing much additional honey.