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These crispy oven baked sweet potato fries are my answer to the craving for fries without the grease. They are golden and crisp on the outside yet beautifully tender inside. You only need a handful of ingredients and just over an hour to serve up a side everyone devours. I started making these when my kids begged for fries but I wanted a healthier choice and now these are a staple at every burger night.
I first tried baking sweet potato fries during a family movie night and we all ended up fighting over the last crispy piece these now disappear faster than anything else on the table
Ingredients
- Sweet potatoes: These are the star of the show Look for firm sweet potatoes with bright skin and no soft spots for the best texture
- Olive oil: Helps the fries crisp up and gives a boost of flavor Choose extra virgin for a richer taste
- Garlic powder: Provides a warm savory layer that makes the fries irresistible
- Paprika: Gives color and a touch of smokiness Smoked paprika is a favorite here for more flavor
- Salt: Brings out the natural sweetness and enhances every bite Always use a good quality sea or kosher salt for best results
- Black pepper: Adds a gentle heat Freshly ground pepper delivers the boldest punch
- Cornstarch: Optional but highly recommended for max crunch It forms a light coating that helps draw out surface moisture
Step by Step Instructions
- Preheat and Heat Baking Sheet:
- Set your oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit 220 degrees Celsius and slide your baking sheet inside while it heats This ensures your fries start crisping as soon as they hit the tray
- Cut and Prep Sweet Potatoes:
- Peel the sweet potatoes if you like then slice into fries about a quarter inch thick Try to cut them the same size so they cook evenly and brown together
- Soak the Fries:
- Place your cut fries in cold water for thirty minutes This step removes excess starch and really boosts crispiness Pat the fries very dry before seasoning
- Season and Toss:
- Add the dry fries to a big bowl with olive oil garlic powder paprika salt and black pepper If you are craving extra crunch toss in cornstarch at this point Make sure every fry is thoroughly coated
- Spread and Bake:
- Take the hot tray from the oven and quickly arrange fries in a single layer with a little space between them Crowding them will steam the fries rather than crisp them
- Flip and Finish:
- Bake for twenty five to thirty minutes flipping the fries halfway so both sides get that golden exterior Watch for deep golden edges and crisp texture then let them cool a bit before eating
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Sweet potatoes are one of my favorite veggies because they are so vibrant and naturally sweet My kids still argue over who gets the crispiest bits and it makes me smile every time
Storage Tips
Store any leftover fries in an airtight container in the fridge They will keep for two to three days To reheat spread them on a baking sheet in a hot oven for around ten minutes to bring back some crispness Avoid microwaving as it makes them soggy
Ingredient Substitutions
You can swap olive oil for avocado or melted coconut oil if you want a different flavor Smoked paprika gives the most depth but you could use regular paprika chili powder or even a dash of cayenne for spice If you do not have cornstarch try arrowroot or potato starch for a similar crispy result
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Serving Suggestions
These fries are perfect on their own or dipped in your favorite sauce I love serving them with garlic aioli or smoky ketchup They also make an excellent base for loaded fries with cheese herbs and a sprinkle of bacon for a fun appetizer
Historical Note About Sweet Potato Fries
Sweet potatoes have been enjoyed across the Americas for centuries but baking fries became popular as people searched for lighter versions of comfort food Making them in the oven at home brings out their earthy flavor in a way that deep frying never can
Recipe FAQs
- → How do I get my sweet potato fries extra crispy?
For maximum crispiness, soak cut sweet potatoes in cold water to remove starch, dry thoroughly, and use a hot preheated baking sheet. Adding cornstarch before baking also creates a crispier exterior.
- → Can I leave the skin on sweet potatoes?
Yes, you can leave the skin on for extra texture and nutrients. Just wash the sweet potatoes thoroughly before cutting into fries.
- → Which seasoning works best for oven baking?
Paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper offer a robust blend. Smoked paprika adds depth, while additional herbs or spices can be used for variety.
- → How do I prevent sweet potato fries from turning soggy?
Dry the cut potatoes thoroughly after soaking, spread them out in a single layer without overcrowding, and bake at high heat to encourage crisping.
- → What dipping sauces pair well with baked sweet potato fries?
Try sriracha mayo, classic ketchup, creamy garlic dip, or honey mustard. These complement the sweet and savory flavors nicely.
- → Do I have to flip the fries while baking?
Yes, flipping halfway through helps both sides brown evenly and promotes a crispier finish on all sides.