Baked sweet potato fries are a healthy and tasty treat! They are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, making them perfect for snacking or as a side dish.
I love swapping regular fries for these colorful gems. They’re so easy to make—just cut, season, and bake! Plus, they add a fun twist to any meal. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Sweet Potatoes: These are the star of the dish! They provide natural sweetness and a beautiful color. If you’re out of sweet potatoes, you can use regular potatoes, but they’ll have a different flavor. Yukon golds or even butternut squash also work well!
Olive Oil: I use extra virgin olive oil for its rich flavor. You can substitute it with avocado oil or canola oil if you want something more neutral or if you’re avoiding olive oil for dietary reasons.
Spices: Smoked paprika adds a lovely smokiness to the fries. If you don’t have it, regular paprika or even chili powder can be good alternatives. Garlic and onion powders enhance the flavor profile—using fresh garlic can also give a nice touch!
Salt and Pepper: These basics enhance all the flavors. Feel free to adjust the salt to your taste. For a twist, you could try a sprinkle of garlic salt or flavored salts.
How Do I Get My Sweet Potato Fries Extra Crispy?
Achieving that perfect crunch in baked sweet potato fries can be tricky, but with some simple tips, you can do it! The key is in the preparation and cooking method.
- Make sure your fries are cut evenly. This helps them cook at the same rate.
- Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet. Give them space to roast and crisp up without steaming.
- Stir them halfway through baking to promote even browning. You want all sides to be exposed to the heat.
- Consider soaking the cut fries in cold water for 30 minutes before drying and baking. This can remove excess starch and lead to a crispier result.
By following these tips, you’ll end up with deliciously crispy sweet potato fries every time. Happy cooking!
Baked Sweet Potato Fries
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 3 large sweet potatoes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Optional dipping sauce (e.g., spicy mayo or aioli)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 10 minutes to prep and around 35-40 minutes to bake, making a total of about 50 minutes. You’ll have delicious, crispy sweet potato fries ready in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). While the oven heats up, line a large baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent the fries from sticking, which ensures they get nice and crispy.
2. Wash and Cut the Sweet Potatoes:
Rinse the sweet potatoes under cold water and scrub them well to remove any dirt. You can choose to peel them or leave the skins on—either way works! Next, cut the sweet potatoes into even strips, around 1/4 to 1/2 inch thick. This will help them cook evenly.
3. Coat the Fries:
Put the cut fries into a large bowl. Drizzle with olive oil and toss them around until they are all evenly coated. This oil helps them crisp up in the oven.
4. Add the Seasoning:
In a small bowl, combine the smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Sprinkle this seasoning mix over the oiled sweet potatoes and toss again until they are thoroughly coated. You want that flavor to cover every fry!
5. Spread and Bake:
Spread the fries out on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer. Be careful not to overcrowd them; if needed, use a second baking sheet. Bake them in the preheated oven for 20 minutes.
6. Flip and Continue Baking:
Once the first 20 minutes are up, carefully flip the fries over with a spatula to ensure they brown evenly. Bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, watching them closely until they are crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. They should be beautifully golden and fragrant!
7. Garnish and Serve:
When the fries are done, take them out of the oven and sprinkle some fresh chopped parsley on top for a pop of color. Serve them hot alongside your favorite dipping sauce, like spicy mayo, for a tasty treat!
Enjoy your delicious, homemade baked sweet potato fries!
Can I Use Other Types of Potatoes?
Absolutely! While sweet potatoes are the star here, you can use regular potatoes like Russets or Yukon Golds. Just keep in mind that the flavor and texture will differ slightly.
What If I Don’t Have Smoked Paprika?
No worries! You can substitute smoked paprika with regular paprika or chili powder. Both will still add a nice flavor kick; just adjust to your taste!
Can I Prepare These Fries in Advance?
Yes! You can cut the sweet potatoes and season them a few hours ahead of time. Just store them in a bowl of water in the fridge to prevent browning. Drain and dry them before cooking for the best results.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, spread them out on a baking sheet and warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until crispy again—about 10-15 minutes.
