If you are craving a snack that’s crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and bursting with natural sweetness, this Baked Sweet Potato Fries Recipe is your new best friend. These golden fries are an easy, healthier alternative to traditional fries, perfectly seasoned and oven-baked to deliver irresistible flavor and texture without the heavy grease. Whether you’re serving them as a side, a snack, or part of a game day spread, these fries bring warmth and comfort in every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Keeping it simple is the secret to these fries tasting amazing. Each ingredient plays a vital role, whether it’s enhancing flavor, adding a touch of spice, or ensuring that perfect crispiness that makes this Baked Sweet Potato Fries Recipe so special.
- 4 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and sliced into thin sticks: The star of the show, their natural sweetness and creamy texture form the base.
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt: Brings out the natural flavors and balances the sweetness.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a gentle heat that complements the sweet potatoes.
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder: Infuses every fry with a savory depth that’s simply irresistible.
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika or chili powder (optional): For a smoky or spicy kick that takes the fries to the next level.
- 2 tablespoons oil (canola or olive oil): Coats the fries to help them crisp up beautifully in the oven.
How to Make Baked Sweet Potato Fries Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Baking Sheet
Start by heating your oven to 415°F (210°C). Line a baking sheet with foil or parchment paper for easy cleanup. If you choose foil, give it a quick spray with nonstick cooking spray to keep the fries from sticking during their transformation into crispy perfection.
Step 2: Mix Your Seasoning
In a small bowl, whisk together the kosher salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika or chili powder if you’re going for that extra flavor punch. This blend is the magic dust that elevates your fries from ordinary to extraordinary.
Step 3: Coat and Arrange the Sweet Potato Sticks
Lay your sweet potato sticks in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Drizzle with the oil evenly, then sprinkle your seasoning mix over the top. Toss lightly if you want to ensure an even coating, but be gentle to keep your fries neatly arranged for even cooking.
Step 4: Bake and Flip for Crispy Perfection
Pop your baking sheet in the oven and bake for 15 minutes. Then, using a spatula, flip each fry to get that golden crisp on all sides. Bake for another 10 to 15 minutes until the fries are beautifully crisp and tender inside. Keep an eye on them to find your ideal level of crunchiness.
Step 5: Serve Hot with Your Favorite Dips
Nothing beats these fries fresh out of the oven. Serve immediately while they’re warm and crispy. Whether you like classic ketchup, creamy aioli, or a zesty chipotle dip, these fries will happily soak up every drop.
How to Serve Baked Sweet Potato Fries Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle fresh herbs like chopped parsley or cilantro over your fries for a burst of color and freshness that complements their warm, savory flavor. A light dusting of grated Parmesan cheese also adds a delightful savory touch that melts slightly on the hot fries.
Side Dishes
Baked Sweet Potato Fries pair wonderfully with grilled chicken, juicy burgers, or a vibrant veggie bowl. Their natural sweetness balances smoky, salty, and spicy main dishes perfectly, making them a versatile side that never disappoints.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve these fries in a rustic cone made from parchment paper or place them in a small basket lined with a colorful napkin. You can even sprinkle a little extra seasoning blend or drizzle a bit of honey for a sweet-savory combo that will impress your guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftover baked sweet potato fries in an airtight container once they’ve cooled down. They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and make a great quick snack or side for your next meal.
Freezing
If you want to freeze the fries, spread them out on a baking sheet to freeze individually before transferring to a freezer-safe bag. This way, they won’t stick together and can be easily reheated for up to 1 month without losing texture.
Reheating
The best way to reheat baked sweet potato fries is in the oven or an air fryer to bring back their crispy edges. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it tends to make them soggy. A quick 5 to 7 minutes in a preheated 400°F oven should do the trick.
FAQs
Can I use regular potatoes instead of sweet potatoes for this recipe?
While you can use regular potatoes, this particular Baked Sweet Potato Fries Recipe is designed to highlight the natural sweetness and softer texture of sweet potatoes, which gives it that unique and delicious flavor.
What oil is best for making baked sweet potato fries?
Canola or olive oil works great here. Olive oil adds a lovely fruity note, while canola oil has a neutral flavor and a high smoke point, which is perfect for baking crispy fries.
How can I make sure my fries come out crispy?
Cutting the sweet potatoes into thin, uniform sticks and baking at a high temperature helps achieve crispiness. Also, flipping halfway through baking ensures even cooking on all sides.
Is it okay to add spices like cinnamon or nutmeg to sweet potato fries?
Absolutely! Sweet spices like cinnamon can add a lovely warmth that plays beautifully with the sweet flavor of the potatoes, especially if you want a dessert-style or sweet-savory variation.
Can I batch prep these fries for parties or gatherings?
Yes, you can prepare the fries ahead of time and keep them in the fridge or freezer. Just reheat them before serving to maintain their crisp texture, making this Baked Sweet Potato Fries Recipe ideal for entertaining.
Final Thoughts
This Baked Sweet Potato Fries Recipe has quickly become one of my favorite go-to snacks. It’s simple, delicious, and satisfying, perfect for anyone who loves a healthier twist on classic fries. Give it a try, and I bet you’ll find yourself making these fries again and again for every occasion!
Print
Baked Sweet Potato Fries Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Crispy and flavorful baked sweet potato fries made with simple seasonings and a drizzle of oil, perfect as a healthy side dish or snack.
Ingredients
Sweet Potatoes
- 4 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and sliced into thin sticks (approximately 1/4″ x 3″)
Seasonings
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika or chili powder (optional)
Other
- 2 tablespoons oil (canola or olive oil)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 415°F (210°C). Prepare a baking sheet by lining it with foil or parchment paper. If using foil, lightly coat it with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Mix Seasonings: In a small bowl, combine the kosher salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika or chili powder if using. This mixture will give the fries a balanced and slightly smoky flavor.
- Prepare Sweet Potatoes: Arrange the sweet potato sticks in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Make sure they are spread out evenly for consistent baking and crispness.
- Season and Oil: Drizzle the 2 tablespoons of canola or olive oil evenly over the sweet potato sticks. Then sprinkle the seasoning mixture over the fries, ensuring they are well coated.
- Bake Fries: Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 15 minutes. Afterward, carefully flip each fry to ensure even cooking and bake for an additional 10 to 15 minutes, or until the fries are golden brown and crispy on the edges.
- Serve: Remove the fries from the oven and serve them hot with your favorite dipping sauce for the best flavor and texture experience.
Notes
- For extra crispiness, soak the sliced sweet potatoes in cold water for 30 minutes before baking and then pat them completely dry.
- Use parchment paper for easier cleanup and to avoid sticking issues that foil might cause without proper coating.
- Adjust the seasoning to your taste, adding more paprika or chili powder for additional heat.
- Serve immediately for best texture; sweet potato fries tend to soften as they cool.
