Sweet potato fries are the ultimate blend of crispy edges and tender centers, offering a healthier twist on a classic favorite. With just 10 minutes of prep and 30 minutes in the oven, you’ll have a golden, caramelized snack that’s both satisfying and nutritious. Their natural sweetness pairs perfectly with a hint of smoky paprika or a sprinkle of sea salt, creating a flavor profile that’s irresistible.
These fries are a feast for the senses, with their vibrant orange hue and the satisfying crunch that gives way to a creamy interior. Whether you’re serving them as a side or enjoying them solo, they’re a guilt-free indulgence that’s ready in under 40 minutes. Perfectly crisp, subtly sweet, and endlessly versatile, they’re sure to become a go-to in your kitchen.
What You’ll Need for Sweet Potato Fries?
- 1 pound sweet potatoes (about 2 medium)
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch (helps crispiness)
- 2 tablespoons water
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder, plus more to taste
- ½ teaspoon paprika, plus more to taste
- ½ teaspoon sea salt, plus more to taste
- Extra-virgin olive oil, for drizzling
How to Make Sweet Potato Fries
- Preheat the oven to 425°F and line two baking sheets with parchment paper. Arrange oven racks in the upper and lower thirds of the oven.
- Slice the sweet potatoes lengthwise into ¼- to ½-inch-thick planks. Cut the planks vertically into ¼- to ½-inch-thick sticks. Halve any very long sticks for even cooking.
- In a small bowl, mix cornstarch and water until dissolved. Pour over the sweet potatoes, then add garlic powder, paprika, and salt. Toss to coat evenly, using your hands if needed.
- Arrange the fries on the prepared baking sheets, leaving space between each. Drizzle generously with olive oil.
- Bake for 15 minutes, or until the fries start to blister underneath. Remove from the oven and flip them with tongs. Add more oil if they look dry.
- Return the pans to the oven, swapping their positions and rotating front to back. Bake for another 7 to 12 minutes, or until browned and crisp.
- Let cool slightly, then toss with additional garlic powder, paprika, and salt to taste. Serve and enjoy!
Perfect Pairings: Sauce and Topping Ideas
Elevate your sweet potato fries with delicious dips and toppings! Try a creamy garlic aioli (mix mayo, minced garlic, and a squeeze of lemon) or a tangy sriracha mayo for a spicy kick. For a healthier option, pair them with avocado lime dip or a simple honey mustard. Sprinkle with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for a pop of color and flavor.
Serve It Right: Presentation and Pairings
Sweet potato fries make a fantastic side dish or snack. Serve them alongside grilled chicken, burgers, or a fresh salad for a balanced meal. For a fun twist, pile them high on a platter and top with crumbled feta, chopped green onions, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze. They’re also perfect for sharing at parties or game nights!
Keep It Crispy: Storage and Reheating Tips
Store leftover fries in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, spread them on a baking sheet and bake at 400°F for 5-10 minutes until crispy. Avoid microwaving, as it can make them soggy. For best results, enjoy them fresh out of the oven!
Mix It Up: Recipe Variations
Customize your fries to suit your taste! Swap paprika for cayenne pepper for a spicy version, or add a sprinkle of cinnamon and sugar for a sweet treat. For a cheesy twist, toss the fries with grated Parmesan before baking. You can also experiment with other root vegetables like carrots or parsnips for a unique twist.
Quick Tips for Perfect Fries Every Time
To save time, slice the sweet potatoes ahead of time and store them in water in the fridge. Dry them thoroughly before coating with cornstarch. Use a mandoline slicer for even cuts, and don’t overcrowd the baking sheets—this ensures crispiness. Finally, don’t skip the cornstarch step—it’s the secret to that irresistible crunch!
Sweet Potato Fries
Ingredients
- 1 pound sweet potatoes, about 2 medium
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons water
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder, plus more to taste
- ½ teaspoon paprika, plus more to taste
- ½ teaspoon sea salt, plus more to taste
- Extra-virgin olive oil, for drizzling
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F and line two baking sheets with parchment paper. Arrange two oven racks in the upper and lower thirds of the oven.
- Slice the sweet potatoes lengthwise into ¼- to ½-inch-thick planks. Slice the planks vertically into ¼- to ½-inch-thick sticks. Slice any very long sticks in half crosswise. The smaller pieces will get crispier in the oven. Place the sweet potatoes in a large bowl.
- In a small bowl, stir together the cornstarch and water until the cornstarch is dissolved. Pour the mixture over the sweet potatoes and add the garlic powder, paprika, and salt. Toss to coat, using your hands to make sure the spices are evenly distributed.
- Evenly arrange the sweet potato fries on the prepared baking sheets, leaving a little space around each one. Drizzle generously with olive oil.
- Bake for 15 minutes, or until blistering underneath. Remove from the oven and use tongs to flip the fries. If they look dry, drizzle with a bit more oil.
- Return the pans to the oven, swapping their positions on the oven racks and rotating them front to back. Bake for another 7 to 12 minutes, or until the fries are browned and crisp.
- Remove from the oven and let cool slightly. Toss with more garlic powder, paprika, and salt to taste and serve.