Smoky Paprika Sweet Potato Rice

Name: Smoky Paprika Sweet Potato Rice
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups cooked rice; 1 large sweet potato, peeled and diced; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; Salt and pepper to taste; Chopped fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

I’ve recently fallen in love with smoky flavors, and this Smoky Paprika Sweet Potato Rice has taken my taste buds on a delightful journey. Combining the earthiness of sweet potatoes with the warm, smoky notes of paprika transforms a simple dish into something truly special. This recipe is not only nutritious but also incredibly easy to prepare, making it a perfect addition to our weeknight dinners. Whether served as a side or a hearty main, it’s bound to become a family favorite.

Created by

Marina Lowe

Last updated on 2026-01-18T12:49:09.979Z

When I first tried making Smoky Paprika Sweet Potato Rice, I wasn’t sure how the flavors would blend together. To my surprise, the sweetness of the potatoes complements the smoky paprika beautifully. I used a good quality smoked paprika, which really enhanced the flavor profile, and now I can't imagine making this dish any other way. It’s become a staple in my kitchen!

One tip I’d love to share is to let the sweet potatoes roast a bit longer until they caramelize. This brings out their natural sweetness even more and adds a lovely depth to the dish. Now, I can’t get enough of this combination, and it’s a perfect canvas for adding other veggies or proteins!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        A perfect balance of smoky and sweet flavors
Nutritious and filling, yet light on the palate
Quick and easy to make, perfect for busy weeknights

      

Understanding the Ingredients

The star of this dish, sweet potatoes, are not only naturally sweet but also rich in vitamins and minerals. They bring a creamy texture to the rice and absorb the smoky paprika beautifully. To ensure even cooking, cut the sweet potatoes into uniform cubes, about 1-inch in size. This way, they will caramelize evenly, enhancing their natural sweetness and flavor during roasting.

Smoked paprika is what elevates this dish from ordinary to extraordinary. Its depth of flavor provides a warm, smoky essence that complements the sweet potatoes perfectly. If you can't find smoked paprika, you can substitute it with regular paprika for a milder flavor, but it won't have the same depth. I recommend trying to find the smoked variety for a truly authentic taste.

Cooking Technique Tips

When roasting the sweet potatoes, ensure that they are spread out on the baking sheet in a single layer. Cozy sweet potato pieces can steam rather than roast, resulting in a less desirable texture; the goal is to achieve a lightly caramelized exterior. Roasting at 400°F (200°C) allows the sugars in the sweet potatoes to caramelize without burning. Give them a gentle toss halfway through cooking to encourage even browning.

Mixing the roasted sweet potatoes with rice should be done delicately to avoid mashing the sweet potatoes. Use a wooden spoon or a spatula and fold the ingredients rather than stirring vigorously. This technique will help maintain the texture of both the sweet potatoes and the rice, allowing for those delightful bursts of sweet and smoky flavors in every bite.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to create a delicious Smoky Paprika Sweet Potato Rice.

Ingredients

2 cups cooked rice
1 large sweet potato, peeled and diced
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste
Chopped fresh parsley for garnish

With these ingredients in hand, you're ready to cook!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare your Smoky Paprika Sweet Potato Rice.

Roast the Sweet Potatoes

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the diced sweet potatoes with olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Spread them on a baking sheet and roast for about 25 minutes, or until tender and slightly caramelized.

Mix with Rice

In a large bowl, combine the cooked rice with the roasted sweet potatoes. Stir gently to mix, ensuring the rice is well-coated with the smoky paprika flavor.

Serve

Transfer the smoky sweet potato rice to a serving dish. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and flavor. Serve warm and enjoy!

Your Smoky Paprika Sweet Potato Rice is ready to be enjoyed!

Pro Tips

For an extra flavor kick, consider adding black beans or chickpeas to the rice mixture for added protein and texture.

Make-Ahead and Storage

This Smoky Paprika Sweet Potato Rice is excellent for meal prep. You can roast the sweet potatoes a day ahead and simply store them in an airtight container in the fridge. When you’re ready to serve, mix them with the cooked rice and microwave for a quick and delicious meal. Just be sure to stir well so that the heat distributes evenly throughout the dish.

If you have leftovers, they can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors will continue to meld as it sits, making it even more delicious when reheated. Reheat in a skillet on medium heat with a splash of water to prevent sticking, or microwave with a damp paper towel to retain moisture.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

This dish shines on its own, but you can also serve it with a protein of your choice. Grilled chicken or tofu would provide a wonderful contrast to the sweet and smoky flavors of the rice. For a vegetarian option, consider pairing it with black beans or a fresh avocado salad to add creaminess and texture to your meal.

For an extra kick, you might add some diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper to the sweet potato mix. Alternatively, for a different flavor profile, try mixing in some cumin and coriander for an earthy twist. You can easily customize this dish to suit your taste preferences!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of white?

Absolutely! Brown rice will add a nuttier flavor and extra fiber, just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave before serving.

→ Is it possible to make this dish vegan?

Yes! This recipe is naturally vegan, so you can enjoy it without any adjustments.

→ Can I add other vegetables to this dish?

Definitely! Feel free to toss in spinach, bell peppers, or any of your favorite veggies to enhance the dish further.