Sweet Potato Fries

Sweet Potato Fries are a nutritious and flavorful alternative to traditional French fries. Made from sweet potatoes, these fries are naturally sweet, rich in fiber, and packed with vitamins. When baked or air-fried, they develop a crispy exterior with a tender, caramelized center—making them a healthier yet deeply satisfying side dish or snack.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Naturally Sweet & Crispy: The natural sugars in sweet potatoes caramelize beautifully when roasted, resulting in golden, crispy edges and a soft interior.

Healthy Alternative: Lower in calories and higher in nutrients compared to regular fries—perfect for clean eating.

Easy to Make: Just a few ingredients and minimal prep time make this a quick and approachable recipe.

Customizable Flavors: Easily adjust seasonings to create spicy, herby, or savory variations to suit your taste.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Sweet potatoes
Olive oil
Cornstarch (optional, for extra crispiness)
Salt
Black pepper
Paprika or smoked paprika (optional)
Garlic powder (optional)

Directions

Prepare the Sweet Potatoes: Wash, peel (optional), and cut the sweet potatoes into even-sized thin strips or wedges.
Soak for Crispiness (Optional): Soak the fries in cold water for 30 minutes to remove excess starch. Drain and pat thoroughly dry.
Season and Coat: In a large bowl, toss the sweet potato strips with olive oil, cornstarch (if using), salt, pepper, and any optional spices until evenly coated.
Bake or Air-Fry:
- For baking: Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Spread fries in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy.
- For air-frying: Preheat air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Air-fry in batches for 12–15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.
Serve Immediately: Enjoy hot with your favorite dipping sauces.

Servings and Timing

Servings: Yields 2–3 servings as a side dish
Preparation Time: 10 minutes (plus optional 30-minute soaking)
Cooking Time: 20–25 minutes
Total Time: 30–55 minutes

Variations

Spicy Fries: Add cayenne pepper or chili powder for heat.
Sweet & Savory: Sprinkle with cinnamon and sea salt for a sweet twist.
Cheesy Option: Toss with Parmesan after baking for an extra layer of flavor.
Herb Infused: Mix in dried rosemary or thyme before baking.

Storage/Reheating

Refrigeration: Store cooled fries in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat in the oven or air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for 5–8 minutes to restore crispiness.
Freezing: Not recommended as texture may suffer.

FAQs

Why are my fries not crispy?
Ensure the fries are dry before baking, don’t overcrowd the pan, and use cornstarch for added crispiness.

Can I leave the skin on?
Yes, the skin adds extra fiber and texture. Just be sure to scrub them well before cutting.

Can I deep-fry sweet potato fries?
Yes, but for a healthier version, baking or air-frying is preferred.

What sauces go well with sweet potato fries?
Popular pairings include garlic aioli, spicy ketchup, honey mustard, or chipotle mayo.

Can I make them ahead of time?
They’re best fresh, but you can cut and soak the fries in advance, storing them in water in the fridge for up to 24 hours before cooking.

Conclusion

Sweet Potato Fries are a wholesome, flavorful side dish that pairs beautifully with burgers, sandwiches, or eaten solo as a crave-worthy snack. Their crispy texture, natural sweetness, and flexibility in seasoning make them a favorite for both kids and adults. With just a few simple steps, you’ll have a delicious, golden batch of fries that rivals any restaurant version—only healthier and homemade.