Baked Sweet Potato Lentil Patties

Name: Baked Sweet Potato Lentil Patties
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 medium sweet potato, peeled and cubed; 1 cup cooked lentils (green or brown); 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (or gluten-free alternative); 1 small onion, finely chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I love making these Baked Sweet Potato Lentil Patties for a healthy dinner or as an appetizer for gatherings. The combination of creamy sweet potatoes and hearty lentils creates a satisfying dish that's both nutritious and flavorful. Plus, they’re baked instead of fried, making them a guilt-free indulgence. I find that adding spices like cumin and paprika elevates the flavors and gives them a delightful kick. These patties are perfect when served with a tangy yogurt sauce or in a bun with fresh greens.

Created by

Jocelyn Parker

Last updated on 2026-01-15T15:28:21.412Z

When experimenting with recipe development, I always aim for a balance of taste and nutrition. These Baked Sweet Potato Lentil Patties came to life after I decided to create a fulfilling vegetarian option that satisfied my family's cravings. I learned firsthand that blending the right spices can transform simple ingredients into a dish that everyone will love.

I've found that letting the mixture rest for a few minutes allows the lentils to absorb the flavors and binds everything together. Baking them until golden brown gives the patties a lovely texture while keeping them healthy. Trust me, once you take a bite, you'll appreciate the work!

        Why You Will Love These Patties
        Nutritious and filling, perfect for plant-based diets
Crispy on the outside while being tender on the inside
Versatile for serving with various dips or as a bun filler

      

The Role of Sweet Potatoes

Sweet potatoes are not only the star ingredient in these patties, but they also contribute to the rich flavor and creamy texture that make them so appealing. The natural sweetness of the potato balances the earthiness of the lentils, creating a harmonious taste experience. Opt for bright orange sweet potatoes for maximum sweetness and a vitamin boost, as they are rich in beta-carotene, which is great for skin and eye health.

When preparing the sweet potatoes, ensure they are cut into uniform cubes to guarantee even cooking. Overcooking them slightly can enhance their creaminess, but aiming for just tender cubes will help maintain their structure once mixed with the other ingredients. If you find yourself short on time, microwaving the sweet potato in a covered dish with a splash of water can speed up the cooking process.

Perfecting the Patties

Shaping the patties can be a bit tricky, especially when ensuring they hold together well during baking. I recommend using wet hands when forming the patties, which helps prevent the mixture from sticking to your fingers. Additionally, if you find the mixture too crumbly, a splash of water or a bit more olive oil can help bind it together. The end goal is to create patties that are firm yet tender, roughly 2-3 inches wide for ideal cooking time and texture.

Baking the patties instead of frying keeps them light and healthy without sacrificing texture. For the best results, use a parchment-lined baking sheet that allows for easy release and cleanup. When baking, keep an eye on them and rotate the tray halfway through to ensure even browning. You'll know they're ready when they have a golden color on the edges and are firm to the touch.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make your patties:

Ingredients

1 medium sweet potato, peeled and cubed
1 cup cooked lentils (green or brown)
1/2 cup breadcrumbs (or gluten-free alternative)
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil
Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)

Prepare these ingredients before you start the cooking process.

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your delicious patties:

Cook the Sweet Potato

Steam or boil the cubed sweet potato until tender, about 15 minutes. Drain and let cool slightly.

Mix Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the cooled sweet potato, cooked lentils, breadcrumbs, onion, garlic, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mash everything together until well combined.

Form Patties

With wet hands, shape the mixture into patties, roughly 2-3 inches in diameter.

Bake the Patties

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the patties on a lined baking sheet and brush with olive oil. Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown.

Serve

Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve with your choice of dipping sauce or in a bun with greens.

Enjoy your delicious baked patties!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding spices like coriander or chili flakes. You can also substitute the breadcrumbs with oats for a heartier texture.

Serving Suggestions

These Baked Sweet Potato Lentil Patties are incredibly versatile in terms of serving. For a quick meal, I enjoy serving them with a tangy yogurt sauce made from mixing plain yogurt, lemon juice, and a pinch of garlic powder for added flavor. This creamy sauce complements the patties’ texture beautifully and adds a refreshing zing.

Alternatively, consider stuffing the patties into a warm bun with fresh greens, such as arugula or spinach. This transforms the patties into a delectable sandwich that’s perfect for lunch or a casual dinner. Toppings like avocado slices, tomato, or a drizzle of hot sauce can elevate the flavor profile even further.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

These patties are not only delicious upon first serving but also make for fantastic leftovers. Once fully cooked and cooled, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes or until heated through. This method keeps them crispy on the outside while maintaining their tender interior.

If you want to make these patties ahead of time, consider forming them and freezing before baking. Place the uncooked patties on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a zip-top freezer bag. They can be cooked directly from the freezer; just add a few minutes to the baking time and ensure they reach a golden-brown finish.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I freeze the patties after baking?

Yes, these patties freeze well. Just allow them to cool completely before placing them in an airtight container. They can be reheated directly from frozen.

→ What can I use instead of lentils?

You can substitute lentils with black beans or quinoa for a different flavor and texture.

→ How long can I store leftovers?

Leftover patties can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days in an airtight container.

→ Can I make these patties vegan?

Yes! This recipe is inherently vegan as it does not include any animal products. Just check your breadcrumbs for any non-vegan ingredients.