These baked sweet potato fries are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. They’re a tasty snack or side dish, perfect for dipping!
Who needs fast food when you can whip these up at home? I love to sprinkle a bit of salt and paprika on mine for an extra kick. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Sweet Potatoes: The star of this dish! Choose firm and smooth sweet potatoes. If you can’t find sweet potatoes, try using regular potatoes or butternut squash for a different flavor.
Olive Oil: This helps to crisp up the fries. For a variation, avocado oil or coconut oil can also work. Both provide great flavor and are high in healthy fats.
Garlic Powder: It adds a lovely savory flavor. If you’re fresh out, minced garlic would work too. Just use 1-2 cloves instead, adjusting to taste.
Spices: Paprika gives a smoky touch. If you want more heat, try cayenne pepper instead. For a different flavor profile, consider adding Italian herbs or Cajun seasoning!
How Do You Get Perfectly Crispy Baked Fries?
The key to crispy fries is how you prepare and bake them. Start by cutting the sweet potatoes evenly to ensure they cook at the same rate. Thin and uniform pieces will help them crisp up nicely.
- Soak the cut fries in water for 30 minutes before baking to remove excess starch. This helps them become crispier.
- Dry the fries thoroughly with a clean towel after soaking. Any moisture will steam fries instead of crisp them.
- Avoid overcrowding on the baking sheet. Give them space to allow air to circulate, which helps with browning.
- Flip them halfway through baking for even cooking. This ensures both sides get that nice crunch.
How to Make Baked Sweet Potato Fries
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Fries:
- 3 large sweet potatoes
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp salt, or to taste
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
- 2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for topping)
For Dipping Sauces (Optional):
- Ketchup
- Spicy mayo (mayonnaise mixed with a dash of sriracha or hot sauce)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 25-30 minutes to bake. So you’ll have delicious, crispy sweet potato fries ready in about 40 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). This is key to getting those fries nice and crispy! Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
2. Prepare the Sweet Potatoes:
Wash and scrub your sweet potatoes to remove any dirt. You can choose to peel them or keep the skin on for a bit of extra texture. Remember, the skin has nutrients too!
3. Cut the Fries:
Slice the sweet potatoes into evenly sized fries or wedges, about 1/2 inch thick. This helps them cook evenly. Thinner fries will be crispier, so feel free to adjust based on your preference!
4. Coat with Olive Oil:
In a large bowl, add the cut sweet potato fries and drizzle with olive oil. Toss them well so that every fry is nicely coated in oil.
5. Season the Fries:
Sprinkle the garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper over the fries. Toss again to ensure that all the fries are well-seasoned. This is where the flavor comes from!
6. Arrange on the Baking Sheet:
Spread the fries out in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Make sure they aren’t overcrowded; this is crucial for getting them crispy!
7. Bake the Fries:
Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. Make sure to flip the fries halfway through to promote even cooking. They should be golden and crispy when done!
8. Add Parmesan (Optional):
Once out of the oven, sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the hot fries right away, tossing gently so it melts into the fries.
9. Garnish and Serve:
Garnish your fries with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color. Serve them hot with ketchup and spicy mayo for dipping. Enjoy your crunchy, flavorful baked sweet potato fries!
Can I Use Regular Potatoes Instead of Sweet Potatoes?
Absolutely! While sweet potatoes add a unique flavor and sweetness, regular potatoes will also work well. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly, so keep an eye on them as they bake.
Can I Make These Fries Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prep the fries ahead! Cut and season them, then store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, you might need to add a tad more oil or seasonings before cooking.
How Should I Store Leftover Fries?
To store leftover fries, let them cool completely and then keep them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. When reheating, spread them on a baking sheet and reheat in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes for optimal crispiness.
Can I Use an Air Fryer for This Recipe?
Yes, using an air fryer is a great alternative! Preheat your air fryer and cook the seasoned fries in batches at 400°F (200°C) for about 15-20 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through for even cooking.