Name: Mini Sweet Potato Stacks with Burrata & Balsamic
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Ingredients: 3 large sweet potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced; 3 tbsp olive oil; 1 tsp garlic powder; ½ tsp smoked paprika; Salt and black pepper, to taste; 6–8 mini burrata balls; 3 tbsp balsamic glaze; Fresh thyme sprigs, for garnish

Introducing a delightful dish that captures the essence of comfort food with a touch of elegance—Mini Sweet Potato Stacks with Burrata & Balsamic. These stacks are not just a treat for the taste buds; they also add a vibrant visual appeal to any table setting. With crispy edges, creamy burrata, and a sweet tangy drizzle of balsamic glaze, they make a perfect appetizer for dinner parties, holiday gatherings, or simply a cozy night in. What’s most appealing about this recipe is its simplicity; it uses basic ingredients to create a dish that feels indulgent without the fuss.

Sweet potatoes are the star of this recipe, providing a sweet and earthy flavor that pairs beautifully with rich burrata cheese. This recipe shines with creativity, allowing you to enjoy gourmet flavors without lengthy preparation. Just think about it: layers of perfectly cooked sweet potatoes, pleasantly enhanced by garlic and smoked paprika, finished with a luscious mini burrata and a splash of balsamic glaze. Whether you are hosting friends or enjoying a quiet meal at home, these stacks are sure to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Mini Sweet Potato Stacks Recipe

Crispy and Creamy: Enjoy the delightful contrast between the crispy sweet potatoes and creamy burrata.
Elegant Presentation: Perfectly stacked bites are as impressive as they are delicious, making them a great choice for entertaining.
Simple Ingredients: Utilizing regular pantry staples, these stacks are accessible without compromising on taste.
Healthy Twist: Packed with nutrients, sweet potatoes are a healthier alternative to traditional appetizers.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

To successfully create these Mini Sweet Potato Stacks, start by preparing your workspace and gathering the necessary tools. First, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it’s ready for the stacks. You’ll need a standard muffin tin for shaping the stacks, which makes them easy to serve and enjoy. A mandoline slicer is highly recommended for achieving uniformly thin slices of sweet potatoes—this is key to ensuring they cook evenly and become delightfully crispy.

In addition to the mandoline, have a large mixing bowl on hand to toss the sweet potato slices with olive oil and seasonings. A cutting board and a sharp knife will also be helpful for peeling and preparing the sweet potatoes. Be sure to have a spatula or tongs ready for stacking and pulling the roasted sweet potato stacks out of the muffin tin easily. All set? Let’s start stacking!

Ingredients

3 large sweet potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
3 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp garlic powder
½ tsp smoked paprika
Salt and black pepper, to taste
6–8 mini burrata balls
3 tbsp balsamic glaze
Fresh thyme sprigs, for garnish

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare the Tin

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven heats, take out your standard muffin tin and grease it lightly to prevent any sticking. This is important for easy removal of the stacks once they are done baking. Using a non-stick spray or a little olive oil will do the trick.

Step 2: Slice the Sweet Potatoes

Using a mandoline slicer, carefully slice the sweet potatoes into thin rounds. Aim for uniformity in thickness, as this will allow for even cooking and ensure that some pieces do not end up burnt while others are still undercooked. If you don’t have a mandoline, a sharp knife can work just as well—just take your time to keep the slices as even as possible.

Step 3: Season the Sweet Potato Slices

In a large mixing bowl, toss the sweet potato slices with olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper until they are well coated. This mixture enhances their flavor profile and gives the potatoes a lovely golden color when roasted. Be sure to distribute the seasonings evenly for maximum flavor.

Step 4: Stack the Sweet Potatoes

Now it’s time to stack! Begin placing the seasoned sweet potato slices vertically in the muffin tin wells. Pack them down gently until filled to about ¾ full. Forming them into neat stacks will not only help with cooking but also create an aesthetically pleasing presentation when served. Don’t worry if the slices can’t fit perfectly—some overlapping is fine!

Step 5: Roast to Perfection

Once stacked, place the muffin tin in the preheated oven. Roast for 40–45 minutes. This duration allows the sugars in the sweet potatoes to caramelize, creating a delicious crispy edge. You’ll notice they’re done when the edges turn golden brown and crispy to the touch. For better results, you can rotate the pan halfway through to ensure even roasting.

Step 6: Top with Burrata

After removing the stacks from the oven, let them cool for about 5–10 minutes. This cooling step helps them to firm up slightly for easier handling. After cooling, top each sweet potato stack with a mini burrata ball, allowing its creamy inside to ooze out as you cut into them. The burrata adds an incredible richness that balances perfectly with the sweetness of the potatoes.

Step 7: Finish with Balsamic and Thyme

Drizzle balsamic glaze generously over each stack, allowing it to soak into the layers of sweet potato and burrata. Finish with fresh thyme sprigs for a pop of color and a hint of herbal flavor. Serve these stacks warm to experience the full delight of this dish!

Variations

Protein: Add crispy pancetta or prosciutto for an added saltiness that pairs beautifully with the creamy burrata.
Vegetables: Consider layering in thin slices of zucchini or beets for an added color and flavor contrast.
Spices: Experiment with different spices such as cayenne pepper for heat or herb blends like Italian seasoning for a flavor twist.

Cooking Notes

Ensure sweet potatoes are cut evenly for uniform cooking and texture.
The type of burrata can affect the creaminess; choose fresh burrata for the best results.
If you prefer a sweeter touch, you can sprinkle some brown sugar within the sweet potato layers.
Allow the stacks to cool a little longer if they seem too soft to hold their shape.

Serving Suggestions

Pair mini sweet potato stacks with a light salad drizzled in vinaigrette for a balanced meal.
Serve alongside roasted meats or as an elegant buffet appetizer.

Tips

Patience is key while roasting—do not crowd the muffin tin to ensure even cooking.
Feel free to prepare the sweet potatoes ahead of time; simply store them in the refrigerator and stack right before baking.
Switch up the cheese to goat cheese or feta for a refreshing taste twist.
Feel free to adjust seasonings based on your personal taste preferences; this recipe is versatile!

Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes

Nutritional Information

Calories: Approximately 150-200 per serving
Protein: 5g from burrata
Sodium: About 250mg depending on added salt

FAQs

Can I make these Mini Sweet Potato Stacks ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the sweet potato stacks a day ahead. Just assemble them in the muffin tin, cover them, and store in the refrigerator. Bake them fresh right before serving!

What can I serve with this dish?

These sweet potato stacks pair well with grilled meats, salads, or can be served as an elegant stand-alone appetizer.

Can I substitute other cheeses for burrata?

Absolutely! Goat cheese, feta, or even ricotta can make excellent alternatives if you want a different flavor profile.

Is there a vegan option for this recipe?

Sure! You can omit the cheese and add a vegan cashew cheese or a dollop of hummus for a creamy element.

Conclusion

Mini Sweet Potato Stacks with Burrata & Balsamic are the perfect combination of comfort and gourmet appeal. This recipe is incredibly versatile, allowing for personal tweaks and elaborations based on your taste preferences. The delightful textures and delectable flavors will undoubtedly make this dish a favorite at any gathering or cozy night spent at home. Don’t hesitate to experiment with various add-ins or sides to elevate your dining experience. We’d love to hear your feedback! Share your variations or how you served them in the comments below and join the culinary conversation!