Crispy Oven Baked Sweet Potato Fries

The first time I made sweet potato fries, I burned an entire batch because I crowded the baking sheet. My tiny college apartment oven could not handle my ambition, but I have learned so much since then about how to get these naturally sweet fries perfectly crispy without deep frying.

Last fall, I made these for a cozy movie night with friends, and they disappeared faster than the popcorn. Everyone kept grabbing just one more until the baking sheet was empty, which is always the best sign.

Ingredients

• 2 large sweet potatoes: Choose firm sweet potatoes with smooth skin and no soft spots for the best texture and flavor.
• 2 tbsp olive oil: This helps the seasonings stick and promotes even browning for that crave worthy crunch.
• 1 tsp sea salt: Sweet potatoes really need this to balance their natural sweetness.
• 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper: Adds a gentle heat that cuts through the sweet.
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika: This optional ingredient adds incredible depth and a subtle smoky flavor.
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder: Savory notes that make these fries irresistible.
• Fresh parsley and dipping sauce: The finishing touches that make these feel restaurant quality.

Instructions

Preheat your oven:

Get it nice and hot at 220°C (425°F) and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper so nothing sticks.

Cut the fries:

Slice the sweet potatoes into evenly sized fries, about 1 cm thick, so they all cook at the same rate.

Season generously:

Toss the fries in a large bowl with olive oil, salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and garlic powder until every piece is coated.

Arrange for success:

Spread the fries in a single layer on the baking sheet, giving each piece room to breathe and crisp up.

Bake and flip:

Cook for 15 minutes, flip each fry carefully, then bake another 15 minutes until the edges are golden brown.

Finish and serve:

Sprinkle with fresh parsley if you like and serve immediately while they are at their crispest.

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These sweet potato fries have become my go-to for when I want comfort food that still feels wholesome and nourishing. Something about the combination of sweet and savory makes them impossible to stop eating.

Getting That Perfect Crunch

The secret restaurant chefs know is that sweet potatoes have more moisture than regular potatoes, so they need extra help to crisp up. The water soak trick is genuinely worth the extra time, as is patting them completely dry before seasoning. I have tried skipping this step, and the difference is obvious.

Customizing the Flavors

Sometimes I add chili powder for a spicy kick, or cinnamon and a touch of maple sugar for a dessert style fry. Fresh rosemary or thyme tossed with the fries before baking makes them feel fancy and herbaceous. The basic formula works, but do not be afraid to make it your own.

Serving Suggestions

These sweet potato fries pair beautifully with burgers, sandwiches, or grilled proteins. They also hold their own as a snack with a good dipping sauce. Try them with a homemade garlic aioli or sriracha mayo for an extra layer of flavor.

• A squeeze of fresh lime juice right before serving brightens everything.
• Extra flaky sea salt on top adds a professional finishing touch.
• Keep them warm in a low oven if you are making a big batch.

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I hope these sweet potato fries become a regular in your kitchen rotation. They are simple enough for a weeknight but special enough for sharing with people you love.

Recipe Help & FAQs

→ How do I make sweet potato fries crispy?

Soak cut fries in cold water for 30 minutes to remove excess starch, then pat completely dry before tossing with oil. Arrange in a single layer without overcrowding and bake at high heat (220°C/425°F). Flip halfway through cooking for even crisping.

→ Why are my sweet potato fries soggy?

Soggy fries usually result from overcrowding the baking sheet or insufficient drying after soaking. Ensure fries are spaced apart and thoroughly dried before seasoning. Avoid adding too much oil, which can make them limp rather than crispy.

→ What seasonings work best with sweet potato fries?

Sea salt and black pepper create a classic foundation. Smoked paprika adds depth, while garlic powder provides savory notes. For variety, try chili powder, cumin, cinnamon for sweetness, or fresh herbs like rosemary and thyme after baking.

→ Can I make these in an air fryer?

Absolutely. Cook at 200°C (400°F) for 12-15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through. Air frying typically requires less oil and yields even crispier results in less time than oven baking.

→ What dipping sauces pair well with sweet potato fries?

Classic options include ketchup, garlic aioli, or sriracha mayo. For something different, try a maple-mustard dip, herb-infused yogurt sauce, or even a savory tahini dressing to complement the natural sweetness.

→ How thick should I cut sweet potato fries?

Aim for uniform thickness of about 1 cm (1/2 inch) for balanced cooking. Thinner cuts may burn before becoming tender, while thicker pieces take longer to crisp. Consistent sizing ensures even baking.