Crispy Oven Baked Sweet Potato Fries

These Crispy Oven Baked Sweet Potato Fries are a healthier alternative to traditional deep-fried fries, yet just as crispy and flavorful. Coated with olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, and a pinch of salt and pepper, these fries come out perfectly golden and crunchy without the mess of frying. A great side dish or snack, these sweet potato fries are easy to make, requiring only 40 minutes in the oven.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Healthy: These fries are baked, not fried, making them a healthier option without sacrificing flavor or crunch.

• Simple Ingredients: Made with just a few pantry staples, this recipe is quick, easy, and delicious.

• Crispy and Golden: Thanks to the soaking and cornstarch coating (optional), these fries turn out crispy on the outside and soft on the inside.

• Versatile: Perfect as a snack, side dish, or even topped with your favorite seasonings and dipping sauce.

• Customizable: You can adjust the seasoning to your taste, making them as spicy or savory as you prefer.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 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

• Optional: 1 tablespoon cornstarch for extra crispiness

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

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

Step 2: Prepare the Sweet Potatoes

Peel the sweet potatoes (if you prefer) and cut them into ¼-inch thick fries. Try to keep the fries as uniform as possible to ensure even cooking.

Step 3: Soak the Fries

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

Step 4: Season the Fries

After soaking, drain and pat the fries dry with a paper towel to remove moisture. In a large bowl, toss the fries with olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. If you’re using cornstarch for extra crispiness, sprinkle it in now and toss everything together.

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 the fries halfway through, until they are golden brown and crispy.

Step 6: Check for Crispiness

Once the fries are crisp and golden, remove them from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes before serving.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4 servings

• Prep time: 40 minutes

• Baking time: 25 minutes

• Total time: 1 hour 5 minutes

Variations

• Sweet and Spicy: Add cayenne pepper, chili powder, or even a drizzle of honey for a sweet and spicy twist.

• Herbed Fries: Add dried thyme, rosemary, or oregano for a fresh herbal flavor.

• Dipping Sauces: Serve with a side of ranch dressing, ketchup, or a creamy garlic dip for extra flavor.

• Vegan Option: These fries are already vegan-friendly, but for extra richness, you can dip them in a vegan aioli or spicy mayo.

Storage/Reheating

• To store: Leftover fries can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.

• To freeze: Freeze the fries before baking by spreading them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 1 month. Bake from frozen at 425°F for about 30-35 minutes.

• To reheat: Reheat in the oven at 400°F for 10-15 minutes to restore their crispiness. You can also reheat them in an air fryer for about 5 minutes for the best texture.

FAQs

Can I use frozen sweet potato fries for this recipe?

While fresh is ideal for getting that perfect crisp, you can use frozen fries. However, you may need to adjust the baking time, as they’re already partially cooked.

Can I use a different kind of potato?

Yes, you can use regular white potatoes or any other variety of sweet potatoes for this recipe. Adjust the cooking time depending on the thickness of your fries.

Why do I need to soak the fries?

Soaking the fries in water removes excess starch, which helps them become crispier when baked. It’s an important step for achieving that perfect crunch.

Do I need cornstarch for extra crispiness?

No, cornstarch is optional but can help achieve an even crispier texture. If you prefer a softer fry, you can skip this step.

Can I add more seasoning to these fries?

Absolutely! Feel free to adjust the seasonings or experiment with your favorite spice blends. Some garlic powder, onion powder, or even a touch of cumin would make great additions.

Conclusion

These Crispy Oven Baked Sweet Potato Fries are an easy, healthy, and delicious alternative to traditional fries. With the right balance of crispy exterior and soft interior, they make the perfect snack, side dish, or even an appetizer. Simple ingredients, minimal prep, and big flavor—these sweet potato fries will become a new favorite in your recipe collection!

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