Crispy Oven Baked Sweet Potato Fries

These Crispy Oven Baked Sweet Potato Fries are not just a healthy alternative to traditional fries, but they also make for a perfect side dish or snack for any occasion. With their delightful crunch and vibrant flavor, you’ll find yourself reaching for these golden-brown treats time and again. Plus, they are easy to prepare and require minimal ingredients, making them a go-to recipe for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Healthy Alternative: Enjoy the pleasure of fries without the guilt. These sweet potato fries are baked, not fried.
• Quick and Easy: With just 40 minutes of prep and cooking time, you can whip up a delicious snack in no time.
• Versatile Flavor: Season them to your taste! Add spices like cayenne or herbs for a unique twist.
• Perfectly Crispy: The method used ensures that every fry comes out crispy on the outside and tender inside.
• Family-Friendly: Kids love sweet potatoes, making this dish a hit with the whole family.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools can make all the difference when preparing these delicious sweet potato fries. Here’s what you’ll need to get started.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking sheet
• Mixing bowl
• Knife
• Cutting board
• Paper towels

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking sheet: A hot baking sheet helps achieve the desired crispiness by ensuring immediate heat contact.
• Mixing bowl: This allows for easy tossing of the fries with oil and seasonings, ensuring even coating.

Ingredients

For the Fries

• 2 medium sweet potatoes (peeled (optional) and cut into fries)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika (smoked paprika is optional for extra flavor)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch (for extra crispiness)

How to Make Crispy Oven Baked Sweet Potato Fries

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Place a baking sheet inside the oven while it heats to get it nice and hot.

Step 2: Prepare the Sweet Potatoes

Peel the sweet potatoes if desired. Cut them into 1/4 inch thick fries. Uniformity is essential for even cooking.

Step 3: Soak the Fries

Place the cut sweet potato fries in a bowl of cold water for 30 minutes. This step removes excess starch, key to achieving crispy fries.

Step 4: Season the Fries

After soaking, drain and pat the fries dry with paper towels to remove moisture. In a large bowl, toss the fries with:
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper

If using cornstarch for extra crispiness, sprinkle it in now and toss everything together until evenly coated.

Step 5: Bake the Fries

Carefully remove the hot baking sheet from the oven. Spread the fries in a single layer on the sheet, ensuring they aren’t overcrowded. Bake for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through until golden brown and crispy.

Step 6: Check for Crispiness

Once they are crisp and golden, remove from oven. Allow to cool for a few minutes before serving hot!

How to Serve Crispy Oven Baked Sweet Potato Fries

Crispy Oven Baked Sweet Potato Fries make a fantastic addition to any meal or snack. They are versatile and can be paired with various dips, toppings, or served alongside your favorite dishes. Here are some delicious serving suggestions.

With Dips

• Ketchup – A classic choice that pairs perfectly with the sweetness of the fries.
• Garlic Aioli – Elevate your fries with a creamy garlic dip that adds richness.
• Sriracha Mayo – For those who love heat, mix sriracha with mayonnaise for a spicy kick.

As a Side Dish

• Burgers – Serve alongside juicy burgers for an irresistible meal.
• Tacos – Crispy fries complement the flavors of tacos, adding a delightful crunch.
• Grilled Chicken – Pair with grilled chicken for a balanced and satisfying plate.

Topped with Extras

• Parmesan Cheese – Sprinkle grated parmesan on hot fries for a savory upgrade.
• Fresh Herbs – Add chopped cilantro or parsley for a burst of freshness and color.

Pin this!

How to Perfect Crispy Oven Baked Sweet Potato Fries

Achieving the perfect crispy texture in your sweet potato fries is all about technique. Here are some tips to ensure every batch turns out golden and crunchy.

• Soak the Fries – Soaking in cold water removes excess starch, which helps in achieving crispiness.
• Use Cornstarch – Adding cornstarch before baking creates an extra crispy coating on your fries.
• Preheat Your Baking Sheet – Heating the baking sheet before adding the fries ensures they start cooking immediately, resulting in better crispness.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan – Spread the fries in a single layer to allow air circulation, promoting even cooking and crisping.
• Flip Halfway Through Cooking – Turning the fries halfway ensures they cook evenly on both sides for optimal crispiness.

Best Side Dishes for Crispy Oven Baked Sweet Potato Fries

Crispy Oven Baked Sweet Potato Fries can be complemented by various side dishes that enhance their flavor and texture. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Grilled Vegetables – A colorful mix of grilled zucchini, bell peppers, and onions offers a healthy contrast.
2. Caesar Salad – The creamy dressing and crunchy croutons pair well with sweet potato fries’ texture.
3. Coleslaw – A tangy coleslaw provides a refreshing crunch that balances the sweetness of the fries.
4. Chili Con Carne – Serve crispy fries as a side to hearty chili for a comforting combination.
5. Stuffed Peppers – Flavorful stuffed peppers can create a deliciously filling meal alongside your fries.
6. Quinoa Salad – A light quinoa salad adds protein and fiber, making it a perfect healthy partner for fries.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Crispy Oven Baked Sweet Potato Fries, it’s easy to run into some common pitfalls. Avoid these mistakes for the best results.

• Not Soaking the Fries: Skipping the soaking step can lead to soggy fries. Soaking removes excess starch and helps achieve that crispy texture you want.
• Overcrowding the Baking Sheet: Placing too many fries on the baking sheet will steam them instead of allowing them to crisp up. Bake in batches if necessary for even cooking.
• Using Cold Oil: Adding oil to cold potatoes can prevent crispiness. Always toss the fries with oil before baking them in a preheated oven.
• Ignoring Cut Size: Fry sizes matter! Cutting the sweet potatoes unevenly leads to inconsistent cooking. Aim for uniform thickness for all pieces.
• Not Preheating the Oven: Baking in a cold oven won’t give you that initial burst of heat needed for frying-like results. Always preheat your oven beforehand.

Pin this!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• They can be kept in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezing Crispy Oven Baked Sweet Potato Fries

• Place cooled fries in a single layer on a baking sheet until frozen.
• Once frozen, transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can last up to 2 months.

Reheating Crispy Oven Baked Sweet Potato Fries

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Spread fries on a baking sheet and warm for 10-15 minutes for best crispiness.
• Microwave: For quick reheating, place fries on a microwave-safe plate and heat in short intervals until warm. This method may not retain crispiness.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a little olive oil. Add fries and cook until heated through and crispy, about 5-7 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about Crispy Oven Baked Sweet Potato Fries that might help you with your cooking process.

How do I make my Crispy Oven Baked Sweet Potato Fries extra crispy?

To achieve extra crispiness, soak your sweet potato fries in cold water before baking and toss them with cornstarch before seasoning.

Can I use different seasonings for my sweet potato fries?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different spices such as cayenne pepper, Italian herbs, or even cinnamon for a unique twist on flavor.

How long do Crispy Oven Baked Sweet Potato Fries last?

When stored properly in an airtight container, they can last up to 3 days in the refrigerator or 2 months in the freezer.

What dipping sauces pair well with sweet potato fries?

Enjoy your fries with dipping sauces like garlic aioli, spicy mayonnaise, or classic ketchup for a delightful experience.

Final Thoughts

Crispy Oven Baked Sweet Potato Fries are not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize them with various seasonings or serve them alongside different dips. Try this recipe today and enjoy a healthier take on your favorite snack!