Crispy Oven Baked Sweet Potato Fries

These Crispy Oven Baked Sweet Potato Fries are a delightful twist on the classic fry, providing a healthier yet equally satisfying option. Perfect for snacking, side dishes, or even as a party appetizer, these fries offer a crunchy texture and sweet flavor that everyone will love. With simple ingredients and easy preparation, you can whip up a batch in just 40 minutes, making them an ideal choice for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Healthy Alternative: Enjoy the taste of fries without the guilt. These baked sweet potato fries are lower in calories and fat compared to traditional deep-fried options.
• Quick Preparation: In just 40 minutes, you can have your crispy fries ready to serve. Perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings!
• Versatile Seasoning: Customize the flavor to your liking with various spices like smoked paprika or even chili powder for an extra kick.
• Kid-Friendly: These sweet potato fries are a hit with kids! They’re fun to eat and can be paired with healthy dips.
• Batch Friendly: Easily scale the recipe up or down depending on your needs. Great for parties or family dinners!

REMEMBER

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE? CLICK BELOW AND PIN IT

PIN

Tools and Preparation

To prepare your delicious crispy fries, you’ll need some essential tools that make the cooking process smoother.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking sheet
• Knife
• Cutting board
• Bowl
• Paper towels

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking sheet: A hot baking sheet ensures even cooking and crispiness in your fries.
• Knife: A sharp knife helps you cut uniform fries, which is essential for consistent cooking.
• Cutting board: Provides a safe surface to chop your sweet potatoes accurately.
• Bowl: Used to soak and season your fries effectively.

Ingredients

For the Sweet Potato Fries

• 2 medium sweet potatoes (peeled (optional) and cut into fries)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika (smoked paprika is optional for extra flavor)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch (for extra crispiness)

How to Make Crispy Oven Baked Sweet Potato Fries

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Place a baking sheet inside the oven while it heats up. This step is crucial to achieve that perfect crispiness.

Step 2: Prepare the Sweet Potatoes

Peel the sweet potatoes if desired, then cut them into 1/4 inch thick fries. Aim for uniform sizes so they cook evenly.

Step 3: Soak the Fries

Place the cut sweet potato fries in a bowl of cold water for about 30 minutes. Soaking removes excess starch, which is key to getting those crispy results.

Step 4: Season the Fries

After soaking, drain and pat the fries dry with paper towels to eliminate moisture. In a large bowl, toss them with olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. If you’re using cornstarch for extra crispiness, add it now.

Step 5: Bake the Fries

Carefully remove the hot baking sheet from the oven. Spread the seasoned fries in a single layer on the sheet without overcrowding. Bake for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through until golden brown.

Step 6: Check for Crispiness

When they are crisp and golden brown, take them out of the oven and let cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your perfectly crispy oven baked sweet potato fries!

How to Serve Crispy Oven Baked Sweet Potato Fries

Crispy Oven Baked Sweet Potato Fries are versatile and can complement a variety of dishes. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your meal experience.

As a Snack

• Enjoy these fries on their own for a healthier snack option. They are perfect for munching while watching a movie or during game day.

With Dips

• Pair the fries with your favorite dips such as ketchup, ranch dressing, or garlic aioli. The creamy texture of the dips contrasts beautifully with the crispiness of the fries.

In a Wrap

• Add crispy sweet potato fries to a wrap filled with grilled chicken, lettuce, and avocado for a satisfying meal. The fries add crunch and sweetness that enhances the flavors.

On a Salad

• Toss some fries on top of your salad for an interesting twist. They add a delightful crunch to greens, beans, and dressings.

With Burgers

• Serve alongside burgers as the perfect side dish. The sweetness of the fries complements savory beef or turkey patties beautifully.

For Breakfast

• Include them in your breakfast hash with eggs and veggies. Their unique flavor adds an exciting element to your morning routine.

How to Perfect Crispy Oven Baked Sweet Potato Fries

Making perfect crispy oven baked sweet potato fries requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure they turn out great every time.

• Soak in Water: Soaking the cut fries in cold water helps remove excess starch, resulting in crispier texture after baking.

• Use Cornstarch: Sprinkling cornstarch on the fries before baking can enhance their crispiness significantly.

• Preheat Your Baking Sheet: Placing your baking sheet in the oven while it preheats ensures that the fries start cooking immediately when placed on it.

• Don’t Overcrowd: Arrange the fries in a single layer without overcrowding them on the baking sheet. This allows hot air to circulate, making them crispier.

• Flip Halfway Through: Turning the fries halfway through baking promotes even cooking and browning for that perfect crispy finish.

• Adjust Cooking Time: Keep an eye on your fries as ovens can vary. Bake until they reach golden brown perfection for best results.

Best Side Dishes for Crispy Oven Baked Sweet Potato Fries

Crispy Oven Baked Sweet Potato Fries pair well with many side dishes. Here are some fantastic options that complement them beautifully.

1. Grilled Chicken: Juicy grilled chicken is a classic pairing that adds protein and savoriness alongside sweet potato fries.

2. Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw brings freshness and acidity that balances out the sweetness of the fries.

3. Roasted Vegetables: Colorful roasted vegetables add nutritional value and create a vibrant plate when served with sweet potato fries.

4. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with herbs and lemon dressing offers a nutritious contrast to crispy sweet potato goodness.

5. Hummus Platter: Serve with assorted veggies and pita chips along with hummus for a healthy appetizer spread.

6. Fish Tacos: Flavorful fish tacos provide a zesty pairing that complements the sweetness of the oven-baked fries perfectly.

7. Stuffed Peppers: Savory stuffed peppers filled with rice, beans, or meat make for a hearty meal alongside sweet potato fries.

8. Macaroni and Cheese: Creamy macaroni is comfort food that pairs well with crispy fries for those who love indulgent sides.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Crispy Oven Baked Sweet Potato Fries can be easy, but there are some common mistakes that can lead to less-than-perfect results. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for.

• Overcrowding the Baking Sheet: When fries are packed too closely, they steam instead of crisping. Make sure to spread them out in a single layer.
• Skipping the Soaking Step: Not soaking the sweet potato fries removes excess starch, which is essential for achieving crispiness. Always soak them in cold water for at least 30 minutes.
• Inconsistent Cut Size: Cutting fries into uneven sizes leads to uneven cooking. Aim for uniform thickness for consistent results.
• Not Preheating the Oven: Baking in a cold oven can prevent the fries from getting crispy. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) before baking.
• Neglecting Seasoning: Seasoning enhances flavor, so don’t skip it. Toss the fries thoroughly with your spices before baking.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover fries in an airtight container.
• They can be kept in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezing Crispy Oven Baked Sweet Potato Fries

• Place cooled fries in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• These can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Crispy Oven Baked Sweet Potato Fries

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and bake for about 10-15 minutes until heated through and crispy again.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes but expect them to lose some crispiness.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat and cook the fries for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally until warmed and crispy.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I achieve extra crispy sweet potato fries?

To make your Crispy Oven Baked Sweet Potato Fries even crispier, soak them longer in cold water and toss with cornstarch before baking.

Can I use other seasonings on sweet potato fries?

Absolutely! You can customize your fries with various spices like cumin, chili powder, or even cinnamon for a unique flavor twist.

What type of sweet potatoes should I use?

For the best results, use firm and smooth-skinned sweet potatoes. Varieties like Beauregard or Jewel work wonderfully.

How long do these fries take to bake?

Your Crispy Oven Baked Sweet Potato Fries will typically need about 25-30 minutes at 425°F (220°C), depending on their thickness.

Can I make sweet potato fries ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare them ahead by cutting and soaking them, then store them in the fridge overnight before baking.

Final Thoughts

These Crispy Oven Baked Sweet Potato Fries are not only delicious but also versatile. They make a perfect side dish or snack that everyone will love. Feel free to customize your seasoning or dip options to suit your tastes!