Crispy Oven Baked Sweet Potato Fries
Who doesn’t love crispy, golden fries fresh out of the oven? If you’re looking for a healthier alternative to traditional fries, these Crispy Oven-Baked Sweet Potato Fries are just what you need. They’re naturally sweet, packed with nutrients, and easy to make. Plus, with the right techniques, you can get them perfectly crispy every time — no deep-frying required!
This recipe is ideal for anyone who wants a guilt-free snack or side dish that delivers on both flavor and texture. Whether you’re hosting a game night, making a quick family meal, or simply craving a crunchy treat, these sweet potato fries are a crowd-pleaser. Keep reading to learn how to make them perfectly crispy every time!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
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Healthier Alternative: Sweet potatoes are rich in vitamins A and C, fiber, and antioxidants — making them a nutritious swap for regular fries.
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Crispy and Flavorful: Thanks to a combination of olive oil, garlic powder, and smoked paprika, these fries come out crispy on the outside and tender on the inside.
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Easy and Quick: With just a few simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, you’ll have a batch of crispy fries ready in under an hour.
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Customizable: Adjust the seasoning to your taste or try out different variations to keep things interesting.
Ingredients
Here’s everything you’ll need to make crispy sweet potato fries:
✅ 2 medium sweet potatoes – Peeled (optional) and cut into 1/4 inch thick fries
✅ 2 tablespoons olive oil – For coating and crisping
✅ 1 teaspoon garlic powder – For a savory flavor boost
✅ 1 teaspoon paprika – Smoked paprika adds a deeper flavor, but regular works too
✅ Salt and pepper to taste – Essential for balancing flavors
✅ Optional: 1 tablespoon cornstarch – For extra crispiness
Kitchen Equipment
To make the perfect sweet potato fries, you’ll need:
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Baking sheet
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Large mixing bowl
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Sharp knife
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Cutting board
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Measuring spoons
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Paper towels
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Spatula
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven
Set your oven to 425°F (220°C). Place a baking sheet inside while the oven heats up. A hot baking sheet helps to crisp up the fries more quickly and evenly.
2. Prepare the Sweet Potatoes
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Peel the sweet potatoes (optional).
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Cut them into ¼-inch thick fries — uniform size ensures they cook evenly.
3. Soak the Fries
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Place the cut sweet potato fries in a bowl of cold water for at least 30 minutes.
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This step removes excess starch, which helps the fries crisp up better in the oven.
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After soaking, drain the fries and pat them dry thoroughly with paper towels. Removing moisture is key for crispiness.
4. Season the Fries
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In a large bowl, toss the fries with:
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2 tablespoons olive oil
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1 teaspoon garlic powder
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1 teaspoon paprika
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Salt and pepper to taste
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If you’re using cornstarch, sprinkle it in now and toss everything together until evenly coated.
5. Bake the Fries
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Carefully remove the hot baking sheet from the oven.
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Spread the fries out in a single layer — make sure they aren’t touching or overlapping. Overcrowding leads to steaming instead of crisping.
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Bake for 25–30 minutes, flipping the fries halfway through for even cooking.
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The fries are done when they are golden brown and crisp.
6. Check for Crispiness
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Let the fries cool for a few minutes to crisp up further.
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Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
Tips for Success
👉 Use cornstarch – This helps create a crispy coating that mimics deep-frying without the oil.
👉 Don’t skip the soaking step – It’s essential for removing excess starch and achieving a crispy texture.
👉 Space them out – Overcrowding the fries will make them steam instead of crisp up. Use two baking sheets if necessary.
👉 Watch closely toward the end – Sweet potatoes can burn quickly, so keep an eye on them after the 20-minute mark.
Variations and Substitutions
🍠 Spicy Version – Add ¼ teaspoon of cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.
🍠 Herb Twist – Toss the fries with chopped rosemary or thyme for a fresh flavor boost.
🍠 Sweet and Salty – Drizzle with honey or maple syrup before baking for a sweet and savory contrast.
🍠 Cheesy Delight – Sprinkle with grated parmesan cheese after baking for extra flavor.
How to Store Leftovers
If you have leftovers (unlikely!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, bake them at 400°F (200°C) for 5–7 minutes to restore their crispiness. Avoid microwaving as it will make them soggy.
Serving Suggestions
These sweet potato fries pair well with:
🥗 Salads – A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette balances the sweetness of the fries.
🍔 Burgers – Serve alongside veggie or beef burgers for a satisfying meal.
🍺 Dips – Try them with spicy mayo, guacamole, or a honey mustard dip.
FAQ
1. Why aren’t my fries crispy?
You may have skipped the soaking step or overcrowded the baking sheet. Ensure the fries are spaced out and patted dry before baking.
2. Can I make these in an air fryer?
Yes! Cook them in a preheated air fryer at 400°F (200°C) for 15–20 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.
3. Can I use different types of potatoes?
Yes, but sweet potatoes have a higher moisture content, so adjust the cooking time if using regular potatoes.
4. How do I prevent the fries from sticking to the pan?
Make sure the baking sheet is hot before adding the fries, and use parchment paper or a light coating of oil.
5. How can I make the fries spicier?
Add a dash of cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the seasoning mix.
Final Thoughts
Crispy Oven-Baked Sweet Potato Fries are a game-changer! They’re easy to make, packed with flavor, and healthier than regular fries. Plus, you can customize the seasoning to your taste and even make them in an air fryer.
Give this recipe a try and let me know how it turns out! If you enjoyed this post, don’t forget to share the recipe with your friends and subscribe to the blog for more delicious recipes and cooking tips.
Happy cooking! 🍠
