Crisp Sweet Potato Fries (Oven or Air Fryer) Recipe
Crisp Sweet Potato Fries are a delicious, healthier alternative to regular fries, offering a perfectly crispy exterior with a tender inside. This recipe provides two cooking methods: oven roasting and air frying, both yielding irresistibly crunchy fries seasoned with a flavorful blend of spices and lightly coated in cornstarch to achieve that coveted crispiness. Perfect as a snack, side dish, or appetizer, these fries are easy to prepare and pair wonderfully with your favorite dipping sauces.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes (plus 15-30 minutes soaking time)
- Cook Time: 25 minutes oven / 15-18 minutes air fryer
- Total Time: 55 minutes (including soaking)
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
Sweet Potato Fries
- 2 pounds sweet potatoes (about 3 medium-sized), washed and peeled if desired
- 2 Tablespoons avocado oil or olive oil
- 2 Tablespoons cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt, plus more for finishing
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ¼ teaspoon chili powder
- ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika or regular paprika
Instructions
- Prepare the sweet potatoes: Fill a large bowl with cold water. Cut the sweet potatoes into ¼-inch wide and ¼-inch thick fry-shaped sticks and soak them in the water for 15-30 minutes. This soaking step helps remove excess starch and is key for achieving crispy fries.
- Mix the spice coating: In a small bowl, combine the cornstarch, kosher salt, garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, and smoked paprika. Set aside.
- Drain and dry: Drain the soaked sweet potatoes thoroughly and dry them very well on a clean kitchen towel to remove all moisture, which is essential for crispiness. Return the dried potatoes to a dry bowl.
- Coat the fries: Add the avocado or olive oil to the dried sweet potatoes and toss well to coat evenly. Sprinkle the cornstarch and spice mixture over the fries, then mix thoroughly—preferably using your hands—until the fries are evenly coated and no visible white cornstarch remains.
- Oven method – Preheat and prepare pans: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Generously spray two large sheet pans with oil to help the fries crisp up when in direct contact with the heated metal. Alternatively, you can line with parchment paper, but the fries may not be as crisp.
- Oven method – Arrange and bake: Spread the coated fries on the prepared baking sheets in a single layer without crowding. Roast in the oven for 15 minutes. Using a large spatula, flip the fries carefully and return them to bake for another 10-12 minutes until golden brown and crisp. Keep an eye on them as oven temperatures may vary.
- Air fryer method – Preheat and prepare basket: Preheat your air fryer to 380°F (193°C). Lightly spray the air fryer basket or tray with oil to prevent sticking.
- Air fryer method – Arrange and cook: Place the coated fries in a single layer in the air fryer basket or tray, ensuring they do not touch for optimal crispiness. You may need to cook in batches if your air fryer is small. Cook for 15 to 18 minutes or until the fries are well browned and crispy, shaking or stirring halfway if desired.
- Finish and serve: Immediately after cooking, sprinkle the fries with additional kosher salt to taste. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauces for a perfect snack or side dish.
Notes
- Soaking the cut sweet potatoes in cold water removes excess starch and is critical for achieving a crispy texture.
- Drying the fries thoroughly before coating ensures they crisp up nicely instead of steaming.
- Using cornstarch helps create a light, crunchy coating on the fries.
- Do not overcrowd the baking sheet or air fryer basket; space fries out for even crisping.
- The cooking time may vary depending on your oven or air fryer model—monitor fries closely to prevent burning.
- Avocado oil is preferred for its high smoke point, but olive oil can be used as an alternative.
- These fries are best served fresh and hot for maximum crispness.
