Sweet potatoes are the ultimate comfort food, and there’s no better way to enjoy them than as crispy oven-baked fries. This recipe transforms simple sweet potatoes into golden, crunchy perfection without the need for deep frying. Perfect as a snack, side dish, or appetizer, these sweet potato fries are flavorful, nutritious, and incredibly satisfying.
If you’re looking for a way to enjoy fries without the guilt, these Crispy Oven Baked Sweet Potato Fries are a game changer. Imagine soft, tender centers wrapped in a perfectly seasoned, golden crust. They deliver all the satisfaction of traditional fries with fewer calories and more nutrients. Sweet potatoes are naturally rich in vitamins, fiber, and antioxidants, making these fries not just delicious but also a healthier choice.
What sets these fries apart is the technique. Coating the sweet potato sticks in cornstarch ensures that signature crispiness, while a blend of smoked paprika, garlic powder, and black pepper enhances their natural sweetness. Whether served with your favorite dipping sauces or as a side to burgers, grilled chicken, or roasted veggies, these fries are a versatile addition to your table. Easy to make and guaranteed to impress, they’re perfect for everything from weeknight dinners to weekend gatherings.
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- Large baking sheet
- Mixing bowl
- Parchment paper or silicone baking mat
- Sharp knife and cutting board
Ingredients Overview
- Sweet potatoes: The star of the recipe, providing natural sweetness and a crispy texture.
- Cornstarch: Helps create that perfect crunchy coating.
- Olive oil: Ensures the fries crisp up in the oven.
- Seasonings: A blend of spices enhances the flavor without overpowering the natural sweetness.
Ingredients
- 2 large sweet potatoes
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Directions
- Preheat the oven
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. - Prepare the sweet potatoes
Peel the sweet potatoes and slice them into thin, even sticks, about 1/4-inch thick. - Coat with cornstarch
Place the sweet potato sticks in a large mixing bowl. Sprinkle the cornstarch over them and toss until evenly coated. - Add oil and seasonings
Drizzle the olive oil over the sweet potatoes and toss again. Add smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper, and toss until the fries are evenly coated with oil and seasonings. - Arrange on the baking sheet
Spread the fries out in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, making sure they don’t overlap. This helps them crisp up. - Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes. Flip the fries and bake for another 10–15 minutes, or until golden and crispy. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning. - Cool slightly and serve
Let the fries cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy them on their own or with your favorite dipping sauce.
Prep Time
10 minutes
Cook Time
30 minutes
Total Time
40 minutes
Nutrition (per serving, ~4 servings)
- Calories: ~150
- Fat: ~5g
- Carbohydrates: ~24g
- Protein: ~2g
Expert Tips
- Cut evenly: Slice the sweet potatoes into uniform sizes to ensure even cooking.
- Don’t overcrowd: Spread the fries out in a single layer to allow for maximum crispiness. Use two baking sheets if needed.
- Flip carefully: Use a spatula to flip the fries halfway through baking for even browning.
FAQs
Why aren’t my fries crispy?
Make sure to coat the sweet potatoes evenly with cornstarch and oil, and avoid overcrowding the baking sheet. Properly preheating the oven also helps.
Can I make these fries without cornstarch?
Yes, but they may not be as crispy. Cornstarch helps create that crunchy coating. You can also use arrowroot powder or tapioca starch as substitutes.
What dips pair well with sweet potato fries?
Ketchup, garlic aioli, honey mustard, or spicy sriracha mayo are all great options.
Storing & Reheating
- Storing: Store leftover fries in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat in a 375°F (190°C) oven or air fryer for 5–7 minutes to restore crispiness.
Substitutions & Variations
- Spicy version: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder for a spicy kick.
- Sweet twist: Sprinkle with cinnamon and a drizzle of honey for a dessert-like treat.
- Herb-infused: Toss with fresh chopped rosemary or thyme before baking for an herby flavor.
Crispy Oven Baked Sweet Potato Fries
Equipment
- - Large baking sheet
- - Mixing bowl
- - Parchment paper or silicone baking mat
- - Sharp knife and cutting board
Ingredients
- - 2 large sweet potatoes
- - 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- - 2 tablespoons olive oil
- - 1 teaspoon smoked paprika optional
- - 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- - 1/2 teaspoon salt
- - 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- **Preheat the oven**
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
- **Prepare the sweet potatoes**
- Peel the sweet potatoes and slice them into thin, even sticks, about 1/4-inch thick.
- **Coat with cornstarch**
- Place the sweet potato sticks in a large mixing bowl. Sprinkle the cornstarch over them and toss until evenly coated.
- **Add oil and seasonings**
- Drizzle the olive oil over the sweet potatoes and toss again. Add smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper, and toss until the fries are evenly coated with oil and seasonings.
- **Arrange on the baking sheet**
- Spread the fries out in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, making sure they don’t overlap. This helps them crisp up.
- **Bake**
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes. Flip the fries and bake for another 10–15 minutes, or until golden and crispy. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning.
- **Cool slightly and serve**
- Let the fries cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy them on their own or with your favorite dipping sauce.
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