Crispy Oven-Baked Sweet Potato Fries

My college roommate used to make these every Friday night while we watched movies, and the whole apartment would smell incredible. I was skeptical that sweet potatoes could actually get crispy in the oven, but she proved me wrong. Now they're my go-to when I want something satisfying without the heaviness of regular fries.

Last summer I made a huge batch for a barbecue, and they disappeared before the burgers even hit the grill. My friend's kids, who normally turn their noses up at anything with sweet potato, kept asking when I'd make more. That's when I knew these weren't just a healthy alternative—they were legitimately delicious on their own merits.

Ingredients

• 2 large sweet potatoes: Pick ones that feel heavy and firm, with smooth skin—no soft spots or bruises
• 2 tbsp olive oil: This helps the seasonings stick and encourages that golden crunch we're after
• 1 tsp sea salt: Sweet potatoes need a good amount of salt to balance their natural sugars
• 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper: Adds a gentle warmth that cuts through the sweetness
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika: Optional but highly recommended—it adds a subtle smoky depth
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder: Another optional add-on that makes these feel restaurant-worthy
• Fresh parsley and dipping sauces: The finishing touches that make serving feel special

Instructions

Preheat your oven:

Crank it to 220°C (425°F) and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper—this high heat is crucial

Prep the potatoes:

Cut them into evenly sized fries, about 1 cm thick, so they cook at the same rate

Season well:

Toss the fries in a large bowl with olive oil, salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder until evenly coated

Arrange for success:

Spread them in a single layer without overcrowding—crowding leads to steaming instead of crisping

Bake and flip:

Cook for 15 minutes, flip each fry carefully, then bake another 15 minutes until golden and edged with crisp

Finish and serve:

Sprinkle with fresh parsley if you like, and get them to the table while they're still hot and crispy

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These fries have become my secret weapon for convincing sweet potato skeptics. There's something about that combination of caramelized edges and fluffy centers that works on everyone.

Getting That Perfect Crunch

The secret is patience and high heat. I've tried rushing this at lower temperatures, and the result is always disappointing—limp fries that never achieve their full potential. That initial blast of heat creates the crust, while the steady cooking time ensures the inside cooks through without drying out.

Seasoning Beyond the Basics

While the classic salt and pepper combo is hard to beat, I've had great luck experimenting with different spice blends. Chili powder and cumin add a Southwestern flair, while fresh rosemary and thyme make them feel unexpectedly elegant. Let your mood guide you.

Serving Suggestions

These fries hold their own as a snack, but they really shine alongside burgers, sandwiches, or as part of a larger spread. I love setting out a few different dipping sauces and letting everyone customize their experience.

• Try them with garlic aioli for something rich and creamy
• Sriracha mayo adds a kick that balances the sweetness
• A simple herb yogurt dip keeps things light and refreshing

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Whether it's movie night or a dinner party, these sweet potato fries have a way of making any moment feel a little more special.

Recipe FAQs

→ How do I make sweet potato fries crispy?

Soak cut fries in cold water for 30 minutes to remove excess starch, then pat completely dry before tossing with oil. Arrange in a single layer without overcrowding and flip halfway through baking at high heat.

→ Why are my sweet potato fries soggy?

Soggy fries usually result from overcrowding the baking sheet, insufficient drying after soaking, or not baking at a high enough temperature. Ensure fries are spaced apart and dried thoroughly before seasoning.

→ What seasonings work best on sweet potato fries?

Smoked paprika and garlic powder enhance the natural sweetness beautifully. You can also try chili powder, cumin, cinnamon for a sweet variation, or fresh herbs like rosemary and thyme after baking.

→ Can I make these in an air fryer?

Yes, air fry at 200°C (400°F) for 12-15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through. You may need to work in batches to avoid overcrowding for best results.

→ How do I cut sweet potatoes into even fries?

Use a sharp knife to slice potatoes into 1 cm (1/2 inch) thick planks, then cut those planks into sticks. Keeping pieces uniform ensures even cooking and consistent texture.

→ What dipping sauces pair well with sweet potato fries?

Classic options include ketchup, garlic aioli, or spicy mayo. For something different, try a maple-sriracha blend or a tangy yogurt-based dip with fresh herbs.