Introduction to Viral Sweet Potato Goat Cheese Sage
As a working mother with a lot of work both at the office and taking care of the family, I always look for something warm to cheer us at the dinner table. And so enters this Viral Sweet Potato Goat Cheese Sage. Creamy in texture and rich in flavors with roasted sweet potatoes, there’s tang from the goat cheese, and a crispy snap from fried sage. It comes together super easily and quickly, taking roughly about 45 minutes from start to finish, cutting that time is that little something to brighten up the dinner table or to make for your date; trust me, this is it!
Why You’ll Love This Viral Sweet Potato Goat Cheese Sage
This Viral Sweet Potato Goat Cheese Sage dish is pure comfort food that doesn’t take hours to prepare. It’s a creamy delight that warms the heart and tantalizes the taste buds! Plus, the combination of sweet, savory, and a touch of crunch from crispy sage keeps every bite interesting. You can easily throw it together on a busy weeknight or serve it at a gathering, making it super versatile for any occasion.
Ingredients for Viral Sweet Potato Goat Cheese Sage
To create this delicious Viral Sweet Potato Goat Cheese Sage, you’ll need a mix of hearty and flavorful ingredients, many of which you may already have in your pantry. Here’s a quick rundown:
- Sweet Potatoes: These are the star of the dish! Their natural sweetness and vibrant color bring a comforting touch.
- Garlic: Freshly minced garlic adds a depth of flavor, balancing the sweetness of the potatoes. It’s an aromatic must!
- Short Pasta: I love using rigatoni, penne, or fusilli. They catch all that creamy goodness in each bite.
- Goat Cheese: The creamy tang of goat cheese elevates the dish. It melts beautifully into the pasta.
- Heavy Cream: This transforms the dish into a decadent, creamy delight that hugs every ingredient.
- Fresh Sage Leaves: Sage brings an earthy flavor and the crispy finish adds texture. A little culinary magic!
- Olive Oil: Just a drizzle enhances the sweetness of the sweet potatoes when roasting.
- Unsalted Butter: It perfectly complements the olive oil, adding richness to the dish.
- Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings to help balance and bring out all the flavors.
- Parmesan Cheese (optional): For those who love an extra layer of cheesy goodness, this is a fantastic addition.
- Crushed Red Pepper Flakes (optional): If you’re like me and enjoy a little heat, sprinkle some red pepper flakes for a spicy kick!
For the precise quantities of each ingredient, check the bottom of the article where I’ve made it super easy for you to print out the recipe!
How to Make Viral Sweet Potato Goat Cheese Sage
Now that we have all the ingredients gathered, let’s dive into making this crowd-pleaser. I promise, following these steps will lead you to a deliciously creamy dish that leaves everyone smiling!
Step 1: Roast the Sweet Potatoes
First things first, let’s preheat the oven to 430°F. Grab your sweet potatoes and peel them before dicing them into bite-sized cubes. The smaller they are, the quicker they’ll roast. Next, toss these cubes in a mixing bowl with minced garlic, a tablespoon of olive oil, salt, and pepper. This adds flavor and ensures a beautiful caramelization.
Spread the sweet potato mixture onto a baking sheet in a single layer. This is essential for even roasting. Pop it in the oven and roast for about 20 to 25 minutes. Halfway through, give ‘em a good stir. This way, you’ll get those perfect golden edges. They’re done when they’re tender and slightly crispy—trust me, you’ll know when they’re ready!
Step 2: Cook the Pasta
While your sweet potatoes are basking in the oven’s warmth, it’s time to cook the pasta. Bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil and generously salt it. This is your chance to infuse flavor right into the pasta! Add your choice of short pasta—rigatoni, penne, or fusilli work beautifully.
Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. Remember, we want it to have a slight bite to it. Once cooked, don’t forget to reserve about 2/3 cup of that starchy pasta water before draining. This is liquid gold, my friends, and will help create a creamy sauce later!
Step 3: Fry the Sage
Now, let’s bring that sage to life! In a large skillet, heat another tablespoon of olive oil and a bit of unsalted butter over medium heat. Once the oil is shimmering, gently add the fresh sage leaves. Fry them for just 1 to 2 minutes until they turn crispy and fragrant.
Carefully remove the crispy sage leaves with a slotted spoon and place them on a paper towel to drain. Keep those flavorful bits close at hand; they’ll be the crown jewel of your dish!
Step 4: Combine Ingredients
By now, your sweet potatoes should be roasted to perfection! Add them straight into that same skillet where you fried the sage. Using a fork, mash about half of the sweet potatoes. This will create texture and flavor without turning it into a complete puree.
Now, toss in your drained pasta along with the heavy cream, crumbled goat cheese, and half of the reserved pasta water. Give everything a lovely mix. The heat from the pasta helps melt the goat cheese and create that creamy sauce we’re after. If it looks too thick, add a bit more pasta water until it reaches your desired consistency.
Step 5: Finish and Serve
It’s almost time to dig in! Season your creamy mixture generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper. This is where you can adjust the flavor to your liking. Now, plate it up and garnish with those crispy sage leaves. A sprinkle of grated parmesan and a drizzle of olive oil adds an extra touch of elegance and richness.
If you’re feeling adventurous, sprinkle on some crushed red pepper flakes for a little heat. Serve it immediately for a warm, satisfying meal that showcases your culinary skills. Enjoy every creamy mouthful!
Tips for Success
- Don’t skip reserving the pasta water; it’s key to a creamy sauce!
- Make sure to evenly spread sweet potatoes on the baking sheet for perfect roasting.
- For extra flavor, add a pinch of nutmeg to the heavy cream.
- Use fresh sage if possible—it makes a big difference!
- Leftovers can be transformed into a hearty lunch the next day!
Equipment Needed for Viral Sweet Potato Goat Cheese Sage
- Baking Sheet: Any flat, rimmed baking tray will do.
- Large Pot: Use any deep pot for boiling pasta; a Dutch oven works great.
- Skillet: A non-stick skillet can make frying sage and combining ingredients easier.
- Mixing Bowl: A large bowl for tossing sweet potatoes and garlic.
- Slotted Spoon: Useful for removing crispy sage without excess oil.
Variations of Viral Sweet Potato Goat Cheese Sage
- Swap the Cheese: Try using feta cheese for a saltier twist or cream cheese for extra creaminess.
- Add Protein: Toss in some sautéed chicken or grilled shrimp for added protein that benefits the whole family.
- Vegan Option: Substitute goat cheese with cashew cheese and use coconut cream for a dairy-free version.
- Vegetable Boost: Mix in sautéed spinach or kale for added nutrients and vibrant color.
- Sauce Variations: Experiment with different herbs like thyme or a splash of balsamic vinegar for a tangy flavor.
Serving Suggestions for Viral Sweet Potato Goat Cheese Sage
- Side Salad: Pair with a simple arugula salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette for a fresh contrast.
- Bread: Crusty garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover creamy sauce.
- Wine: A crisp white wine, like Sauvignon Blanc, complements the dish beautifully.
- Presentation: Serve in rustic bowls, garnished with extra crispy sage for visual appeal.
- Serving Temperature: Enjoy it warm, but it’s also delightful at room temperature!
FAQs about Viral Sweet Potato Goat Cheese Sage
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the sweet potatoes and cook the pasta in advance. Just combine them with the cream and goat cheese when you’re ready to serve. It’s a great way to save time on busy nights!
What can I use instead of goat cheese?
If you’re not a fan of goat cheese, feel free to swap it for feta or cream cheese. Each option adds a unique flavor and keeps that creamy vibe intact. You really can’t go wrong!
Can I freeze leftovers of the Viral Sweet Potato Goat Cheese Sage?
Yes, but keep in mind that the creamy texture might change a bit after freezing. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge and reheat gently on the stove.
Is this recipe suitable for a vegetarian diet?
Yes! This Viral Sweet Potato Goat Cheese Sage dish is entirely vegetarian. The combination of sweet potatoes, cream, and cheese ensures a filling meal that’s sure to please.
How can I spice it up further?
If you like a little heat, don’t hesitate to sprinkle more crushed red pepper flakes over the dish before serving. You can also add sautéed vegetables for added flavor and nutrition!
Final Thoughts on Viral Sweet Potato Goat Cheese Sage
Making this Viral Sweet Potato Goat Cheese Sage dish brings me pure happiness. It encapsulates everything I cherish about cooking—comfort, warmth, and the ability to please my loved ones. The creamy texture paired with the subtle sweetness of the roasted sweet potatoes evokes cozy family gatherings and shared laughter. It’s truly a joy to see everyone digging in, their faces lighting up with every bite. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a special occasion, this dish is bound to become a beloved staple in your home, offering both nourishment and delight. Happy cooking!
Print
Viral Sweet Potato Goat Cheese Sage
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A deliciously creamy dish combining roasted sweet potatoes, goat cheese, and crispy sage served over short pasta.
Ingredients
- 2 medium sweet potatoes (about 1.1 pounds), peeled and diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 12 ounces short pasta such as rigatoni, penne, or fusilli
- 4.2 ounces goat cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 20 fresh sage leaves
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, plus more for drizzling
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 ounce grated parmesan cheese (optional)
- Crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 430°F. Toss diced sweet potatoes and minced garlic with 1 tablespoon olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread evenly on a baking sheet and roast for 20 to 25 minutes, stirring halfway through, until tender and caramelized.
- While the sweet potatoes are roasting, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Reserve 2/3 cup pasta cooking water, then drain.
- In a large skillet, heat remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil and the butter over medium heat. Add sage leaves and fry for 1 to 2 minutes until crispy. Remove sage with a slotted spoon and drain on a paper towel.
- Add the roasted sweet potatoes to the skillet. Using a fork, mash about half of the sweet potatoes, leaving the remainder in chunks for texture.
- Add drained cooked pasta to the skillet with sweet potatoes. Stir in heavy cream, crumbled goat cheese, and half of the reserved pasta water. Toss until the sauce is creamy and coats the pasta, adding additional pasta water as needed.
- Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Serve immediately topped with crispy sage leaves, grated parmesan, a drizzle of olive oil, and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes as desired.
Notes
- For a spicier kick, add more crushed red pepper flakes.
- You can substitute the goat cheese with feta cheese for a different flavor.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Roasting and Stovetop Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
