If you’ve been searching for the ultimate way to enjoy sweet potatoes, you’re absolutely going to love these Crispy Oven Baked Sweet Potato Fries. They strike the perfect balance of crunchy edges and tender insides, seasoned just right with garlic and paprika that bring out those natural sweet potato flavors in the best way. Plus, baking them instead of frying keeps things lighter without sacrificing any of that crave-worthy crispiness. Trust me, once you try these fries, they’ll become your go-to snack or side dish in no time.

Crispy Oven Baked Sweet Potato Fries Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are simple yet essential, each playing a key role in delivering that perfect combination of crispy texture and bold flavor that makes these fries unforgettable.

2 medium sweet potatoes: Choose firm, bright orange sweet potatoes for the best taste and texture; peeling is optional based on your preference.
2 tablespoons olive oil: Helps the fries crisp up beautifully while adding a light, fruity note.
1 teaspoon garlic powder: Adds a subtle savory depth that complements the sweetness of the potatoes.
1 teaspoon paprika: Smoky or regular paprika imparts warm, earthy tones that elevate the flavor.
1 teaspoon salt: Balances sweetness and intensifies the overall taste.
½ teaspoon black pepper: Offers just a hint of spice to keep things interesting.
1 tablespoon cornstarch: The secret ingredient for extra crispiness by absorbing moisture and helping form that perfect crunchy crust.

How to Make Crispy Oven Baked Sweet Potato Fries

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by heating your oven to 425°F (220°C) and place a baking sheet inside while it warms up. This ensures a hot surface that begins crisping the fries the moment they touch it.

Step 2: Prepare the Sweet Potatoes

Peeling your sweet potatoes is optional, so choose what feels right for you. Cut them into uniform 1/4 inch thick fries to guarantee even cooking and that satisfying bite every time.

Step 3: Soak the Fries

Placing the cut fries in cold water for 30 minutes is a game changer. This step removes excess starch, which is exactly what keeps fries from becoming soggy and helps them get irresistibly crispy when baked.

Step 4: Season the Fries

Drain and thoroughly dry the fries to rid them of moisture—this is crucial for crispiness. Toss them in olive oil and your seasonings: garlic powder, paprika, salt, black pepper, and finally, sprinkle in the cornstarch for that extra crunch. Every fry should be evenly coated for maximum flavor and texture.

Step 5: Bake the Fries

Carefully pull the hot baking sheet from the oven and spread the fries in a single layer, giving each piece room to breathe. Overcrowding will cause steaming instead of crisping. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, flipping halfway so both sides get beautifully golden and crisp.

Step 6: Check for Crispiness

Once your Crispy Oven Baked Sweet Potato Fries are a gorgeous golden brown, remove them from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes. This little cooldown helps lock in the crunch before you dive in.

How to Serve Crispy Oven Baked Sweet Potato Fries

Garnishes

Sprinkle fresh chopped parsley or chives over your fries to add a pop of color and herbal freshness. A light dusting of grated Parmesan also lends a savory kick that pairs impeccably with the sweet and smoky seasoning.

Side Dishes

Crispy Oven Baked Sweet Potato Fries are the perfect partner to juicy burgers, grilled chicken, or a crisp green salad. They add a deliciously vibrant twist to any meal without overpowering other flavors.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun and casual vibe, serve these fries in a cone made of parchment paper or in individual small baskets lined with wax paper. Drizzle your favorite dipping sauces, like chipotle mayo or tangy tzatziki, right on the side for an irresistible snack spread.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers, transfer the fries to an airtight container and refrigerate them. They will stay good for up to 3 days, retaining most of their flavor even if the crispiness softens a little.

Freezing

You can freeze these fries by flash freezing them in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer bag. This keeps them separate and easy to bake straight from frozen for a quick crispy treat.

Reheating

To bring back their crunch after storage, reheat your Crispy Oven Baked Sweet Potato Fries in a hot oven or air fryer at 400°F (200°C) for about 5 to 7 minutes. Avoid microwaving as it tends to make fries soggy.

FAQs

Can I leave the sweet potato skin on?

Absolutely! Leaving the skin on adds a nice rustic texture and extra nutrients. Just make sure to wash and scrub them well before cutting.

What does cornstarch do in this recipe?

Cornstarch helps absorb excess moisture on the surface of the fries and creates a light, crisp coating as they bake, giving you that perfect crunch.

Can I use other spices to change the flavor?

Definitely! Feel free to experiment with chili powder, cumin, or even cinnamon for unique taste twists that still complement the natural sweetness of the potatoes.

Is 425°F the best temperature for baking these fries?

Yes, 425°F is ideal because it’s hot enough to crisp the fries quickly without drying them out, ensuring they’re golden and tender inside.

Do I need to flip the fries during baking?

Flipping halfway through cooking helps both sides achieve that wonderful crunchy texture and even browning, so it’s highly recommended.

Final Thoughts

These Crispy Oven Baked Sweet Potato Fries truly embody comfort food with a nutritious twist, bringing together simplicity and delightful flavor in every bite. I encourage you to try this recipe soon and watch how these fries steal the show at any meal or gathering. Once you taste their perfect crispiness and seasoning, you’ll wonder why you ever settled for anything else!

Crispy Oven Baked Sweet Potato Fries Recipe

★★★★★

5.1 from 7 reviews

Author: Charlotte
Total Time: 65 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Gluten Free

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Description

Crispy Oven Baked Sweet Potato Fries are a healthier alternative to traditional deep-fried fries. These golden, flavorful fries are seasoned with garlic powder, paprika, and a hint of salt and pepper, then baked to perfection in the oven for a crispy texture without the extra oil. Soaking the fries in cold water before baking removes excess starch, ensuring crispiness. Perfect as a snack or side dish, these fries are simple to make and naturally gluten-free.

Ingredients

Scale

Sweet Potatoes

2 medium sweet potatoes (peeled, optional, and cut into fries)

Seasonings and Coating

2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon paprika (smoked paprika optional)
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
1 tablespoon cornstarch (for extra crispiness)

Instructions

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Place a baking sheet inside the oven while it heats to get it nice and hot, which helps the fries crisp up when baking.
Prepare the Sweet Potatoes: Peel the sweet potatoes if you prefer (this is optional) and cut them into uniformly sized ¼ inch thick fries to ensure even cooking.
Soak the Fries: Submerge the cut sweet potato fries in a bowl of cold water and soak them for 30 minutes to remove excess starch, which helps achieve a crispier texture.
Season the Fries: Drain the fries and pat them thoroughly dry with paper towels to remove moisture. Toss the fries in a large bowl with olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, black pepper, and optionally cornstarch. Mix well so every fry is coated evenly.
Bake the Fries: Carefully remove the hot baking sheet from the oven. Spread the fries out in a single layer without overcrowding to ensure crispiness. Bake for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the fries are golden brown and crispy on the edges.
Check for Crispiness: Once baked, remove the fries from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes before serving. This helps them firm up and become even crispier.

Notes

Soaking the fries in cold water is crucial for removing starch and ensuring crispiness.
Using cornstarch is optional but highly recommended to enhance crisp texture.
Make sure the fries are spread out evenly with space between them, or they may steam instead of bake crispy.
Flipping the fries halfway through cooking ensures even browning on all sides.
Sweet potatoes vary in moisture content, so drying them thoroughly is key to crispy results.

Prep Time: 40 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Category: Side Dish
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American