Baked Sweet Potato and Lentil Patties

Name: Baked Sweet Potato and Lentil Patties
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed; 1 cup cooked lentils, drained; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs; 1/4 cup finely chopped onion; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon cumin; 1 teaspoon paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; Olive oil for brushing

Highlighted under: Balanced Healthy Meals Favorites

I absolutely love making baked sweet potato and lentil patties! They are not only delicious but also incredibly nutritious. The combination of sweet potatoes and lentils creates a perfect balance of flavors and textures. Plus, the ease of preparation makes them a go-to meal for busy weeks. I love serving these patties with a variety of dips or salads, and they hold up well in the fridge for quick lunches. If you're looking for a hearty, healthy, and satisfying recipe, you've got to try these patties!

Created by

Beatrice Holloway

Last updated on 2026-01-15T14:33:35.614Z

I recall the first time I made these baked sweet potato and lentil patties. It was a rainy evening, and I wanted something comforting yet healthy. Using pantry staples, I combined nutrient-dense ingredients, and the result was fantastic. The natural sweetness of the potatoes complemented the earthy lentils beautifully.

One tip I discovered is to let the mixture rest for a few minutes before shaping the patties. This helps achieve a better binding texture, preventing them from falling apart while baking. Trust me; you’ll love the soft, flavorful bites!

Why You'll Love These Patties
Nutritious ingredients that are packed with protein and fiber
Versatile - perfect for lunch, dinner, or meal prep
Crispy on the outside and tender on the inside

The Role of Sweet Potatoes and Lentils

Sweet potatoes are not just delicious; they play a crucial role in adding moisture and natural sweetness to the patties. This balance of flavors complements the earthy notes of lentils, which are a fantastic source of protein and fiber. Together, they create a hearty yet light dish that keeps you filled without feeling heavy. When selecting sweet potatoes, look for ones that feel firm and have smooth skin to ensure maximum creaminess when cooked.

Lentils bring a unique texture to the patties, providing a slightly nutty flavor and essential nutrients. Use cooked lentils that are firm and not mushy to maintain the patties' shape. If you’re short on time, canned lentils can be a quick alternative; just be sure to drain and rinse them thoroughly. This not only saves time but also helps prevent the patties from becoming too wet.

Tips for Perfect Patties

Forming the patties can be a delicate task. Aim for a thickness of about 1/2 inch to ensure they cook evenly. If the mixture is too wet, add a bit more breadcrumbs to hold everything together. I find that wetting my hands slightly when shaping the patties helps prevent sticking and allows for a smoother shape. Remember that inconsistently shaped patties will cook at different rates, so uniformity is key for consistent texture.

Baking time is crucial—watch for a golden brown color, usually around 25-30 minutes. Flipping halfway allows both sides to crisp up evenly, creating that perfect outer crunch. If you notice the patties are browning too quickly, lowering the oven temperature to 375°F (190°C) can help ensure they bake through without burning. You can also try broiling them for a minute at the end for an extra crispy finish.

Ingredients

For the Patties

2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
1 cup cooked lentils, drained
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
1/4 cup finely chopped onion
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon cumin
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
Olive oil for brushing

Mix these ingredients well to form a cohesive mixture.

Directions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Boil Sweet Potatoes

Boil the sweet potatoes in salted water for about 15 minutes until tender. Drain and let cool slightly.

Mix Ingredients

In a large bowl, mash the sweet potatoes. Add cooked lentils, breadcrumbs, onion, garlic, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.

Shape Patties

Form the mixture into patties, about 1/2 inch thick. Place them on the prepared baking sheet.

Bake

Brush the patties lightly with olive oil and bake for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown.

Allow the patties to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider mixing in fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro into the patty mixture.

Storage and Reheating Options

These Baked Sweet Potato and Lentil Patties are perfect for meal prep! After baking, let them cool completely, then store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. They also freeze exceptionally well; just place them in a single layer on a baking sheet until frozen solid, then transfer to a ziplock bag for up to three months. This ensures you have a quick, wholesome meal ready whenever you need it.

When reheating, a quick trip through the oven works wonders. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C), place the patties on a baking sheet, cover with foil to prevent drying, and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through. For a quicker method, microwave them for about 1-2 minutes, but know that this can affect their crispiness. For extra texture, consider pan-frying them in a little oil after microwaving.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

I love serving these patties with tahini sauce or a dollop of yogurt for added creaminess and contrast. They also pair wonderfully with a crisp side salad, fresh greens, or even wrapped in a whole-grain pita for a satisfying lunch. Feel free to get creative with sauces; a spicy harissa or a mango chutney can add an exciting twist.

You can customize the flavor profile by incorporating different spices or herbs. For instance, adding fresh cilantro or parsley can brighten the patties, while a pinch of chili powder or cayenne pepper can add heat. If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, substitute traditional breadcrumbs with almond flour or gluten-free breadcrumbs, maintaining the same quantities.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can these patties be frozen?

Yes, you can freeze the patties before baking. Just thaw and bake when ready to eat.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

→ Can I use different beans instead of lentils?

Absolutely! You can use canned black beans or chickpeas for a variation.

→ What can I serve with these patties?

They pair well with yogurt sauce, avocado, or in a salad wrap.