Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I love this recipe because it delivers that satisfying crunch without the need for deep frying. The natural sweetness of the sweet potatoes pairs beautifully with savory spices, creating a delicious balance of flavors. Plus, it’s a versatile side dish that complements a variety of meals.
Ingredients
(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
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2 medium sweet potatoes
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2 tablespoons olive oil
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1 teaspoon garlic powder
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1 teaspoon paprika (smoked paprika adds a nice touch)
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Salt and pepper to taste
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Optional: 1 tablespoon cornstarch for extra crispiness
Directions
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I start by preheating my oven to 425°F (220°C) and placing a baking sheet inside to heat up.
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Next, I peel the sweet potatoes (though sometimes I leave the skin on for added texture) and cut them into thin, even strips about 1/4 inch thick.
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I soak the cut fries in cold water for at least 30 minutes to remove excess starch, which helps them crisp up in the oven.
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After soaking, I drain and thoroughly pat the fries dry with a paper towel.
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In a large bowl, I toss the fries with olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. If I’m using cornstarch, I add it now and toss everything together to ensure an even coating.
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Carefully, I remove the hot baking sheet from the oven and spread the fries out in a single layer, making sure not to overcrowd them.
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I bake the fries for 25-30 minutes, flipping them halfway through to ensure even cooking.
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Once they’re golden brown and crispy, I let them cool for a few minutes before serving.
Servings and Timing
This recipe yields about 4 servings. Preparation takes approximately 10 minutes, soaking requires at least 30 minutes, and baking takes 25-30 minutes, bringing the total time to around 1 hour and 10 minutes.
Variations
Sometimes, I like to switch things up by adding different spices such as cumin, chili powder, or even a dash of cinnamon for a sweet twist. For a spicy kick, a pinch of cayenne pepper does the trick. If I’m in the mood for something cheesy, I sprinkle grated Parmesan over the fries during the last few minutes of baking.
Storage/Reheating
If I have leftovers, I store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, I spread the fries on a baking sheet and warm them in a 400°F (200°C) oven for about 10 minutes to restore their crispiness.
FAQs
Can I skip soaking the sweet potatoes?
While it’s possible to skip the soaking step, I find that soaking the fries helps remove excess starch, resulting in a crispier texture.
Why are my fries not crispy?
If my fries turn out soggy, it’s usually because I didn’t dry them thoroughly after soaking or I overcrowded the baking sheet, which causes them to steam instead of bake.
Can I use other types of potatoes?
Yes, I can use other varieties like russet potatoes, but the cooking time and texture may vary.
Is cornstarch necessary?
Cornstarch isn’t mandatory, but I find that it adds an extra layer of crispiness to the fries.
Can I make these fries ahead of time?
I prefer to bake them fresh for the best texture, but I can cut and soak the fries ahead of time, storing them in water in the refrigerator until I’m ready to bake.
Conclusion
Crispy Oven Baked Sweet Potato Fries are a delicious and healthier alternative to traditional fries. With a few simple steps and ingredients, I can enjoy a satisfying side dish that’s both flavorful and nutritious. Whether I’m serving them with a burger, sandwich, or enjoying them on their own, these fries are always a hit.
Print
Crispy Oven Baked Sweet Potato Fries
- Total Time: ~1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Perfectly baked sweet potato fries—crispy on the outside, tender inside. Made with garlic, paprika, and a touch of olive oil for a healthy, flavorful side.
Ingredients
2 medium sweet potatoes
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon paprika (use smoked paprika for added flavor)
Salt and pepper, to taste
Optional: 1 tablespoon cornstarch (for crispier fries)
Instructions
Preheat Oven: Preheat to 425°F (220°C) and place a baking sheet inside to heat up.
Prep the Sweet Potatoes: Peel (or scrub and leave skin on) and cut sweet potatoes into ¼-inch thick matchsticks.
Soak: Soak the fries in cold water for at least 30 minutes to remove excess starch. Drain and pat them thoroughly dry.
Season: Toss the fries with olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. If using, add cornstarch and toss until evenly coated.
Bake: Carefully remove the hot baking sheet, spread fries in a single layer (do not overcrowd), and bake for 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy.
Serve: Let cool slightly and serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce.
Notes
Don’t skip drying the fries well; moisture causes sogginess.
Cornstarch is optional but helps achieve extra crispiness.
Rotate and flip fries evenly for the best bake.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25–30 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Oven-Baked
- Cuisine: American
