Baked Sweet Potato Fries

Name: Baked Sweet Potato Fries
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 large sweet potatoes; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon paprika; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Healthy Recipe Vault

I absolutely love making Baked Sweet Potato Fries because they perfectly balance health and taste. The natural sweetness of the potatoes shines through when baked to crispy perfection. We often serve them as a side dish or a healthy snack, and they disappear in no time! With just a few simple ingredients, I can whip up these delightful fries in about 30 minutes. Whether enjoyed on their own or paired with a tasty dip, they are a family favorite that keeps us coming back for more.

Created by

Eden Clarke

Last updated on 2026-02-08T08:36:36.803Z

During one of our lazy weekend afternoons, I stumbled upon an old sweet potato I had forgotten about. Instead of tossing it, I decided to experiment and whip up some baked fries. The result was beyond my expectations! The fries turned out crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, with a hint of natural sweetness that was simply irresistible.

Since then, I've perfected the recipe by adjusting the seasoning and cooking time. One trick I learned is to soak the cut fries in water for about 10 minutes before baking, which helps achieve that coveted crispy texture. Trust me, once you try these fries, you'll never want regular fries again!

Why You'll Love These Baked Sweet Potato Fries
Crispy on the outside, soft on the inside for the perfect bite
Naturally sweet with a dash of savory seasoning that enhances flavor
Wholesome and nutritious alternative to traditional fries

The Importance of Thickness

When cutting your sweet potatoes into strips, consistency is key for achieving the perfect texture. Aim for strips that are about 1/4 inch thick. Thinner fries will cook faster and become crispier, while thicker ones might retain more softness inside. If you enjoy a crunchy exterior, I recommend experimenting with the thickness to find your ideal fry. Remember that uneven cuts can lead to uneven cooking, so take your time to make the slices uniform.

Once your sweet potato fries are cut, it’s crucial to ensure they are patted dry before seasoning. Excess moisture can lead to sogginess, preventing that desired crispiness. I often lay them out on a clean kitchen towel for a few minutes to absorb any surface moisture. This small step can make a significant difference in how crispy the finished fries turn out. Trust me, it’s worth the effort!

Flavor Infusion Techniques

While the paprika and garlic powder create a flavorful base, feel free to customize your seasoning blend according to your taste preferences. Adding a pinch of cayenne pepper can introduce a gentle kick, while a splash of balsamic vinegar before baking can enhance the sweetness of the fries. Consider experimenting with other spices like smoked paprika for a deeper flavor or even cinnamon for a sweet twist. The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility—get creative!

Another technique to maximize flavor is to let the seasoned fries sit for about 10 minutes before baking. This allows the spices to penetrate deeper into the sweet potatoes. Additionally, tossing the fries again right before baking can ensure that the seasoning is evenly distributed for every bite. I've found that taking this extra time results in a more complex and satisfying flavor profile.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

If you have leftovers (which isn't very common at my house!), allow the fries to cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. Baked sweet potato fries can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, spread them out on a baking sheet and bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-12 minutes until they are heated through and crispy again. Avoid microwaving, as that can turn them soggy.

As for serving, these fries pair wonderfully with a variety of dips. A tangy yogurt-based dip or homemade guacamole elevates the flavor experience. You could also try them alongside a spicy aioli or tzatziki for a refreshing contrast. They make a fantastic addition to a healthy platter, or enjoy them as a standalone snack. The possibilities are endless!

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to make your delicious Baked Sweet Potato Fries:

Ingredients

2 large sweet potatoes
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste

Now that you have everything ready, let’s move on to the cooking process!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare your Baked Sweet Potato Fries:

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.

Prepare the Sweet Potatoes

Peel the sweet potatoes and cut them into thin, even strips. This helps them cook evenly.

Season the Fries

In a large bowl, toss the sweet potato strips with olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until well coated.

Bake the Fries

Spread the seasoned fries in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 20 minutes or until they are golden and crispy, flipping halfway through.

Your Baked Sweet Potato Fries are now ready to be enjoyed!

Pro Tips

For extra crunch, try adding a touch of cornstarch to the fries before baking. Also, ensure they are spread out in a single layer on the baking sheet to avoid steaming.

Sweet Potato Varieties

Choosing the right sweet potatoes can impact the final taste and texture of your fries. Look for firm, smooth-skinned sweet potatoes, avoiding those with soft spots or blemishes. The sweeter varieties, like Beauregard or Jewel, produce a delightful taste that complements the savory seasonings. If you prefer less sweetness, consider using Japanese sweet potatoes which have a nuttier flavor and firmer texture.

If you’re in a pinch, butternut squash can also be a great substitute for sweet potatoes in this fry recipe. It has a similar sweetness and can be prepared in the same way, though you may need to adjust baking times. Squash tends to cook a bit quicker, so start checking for doneness a few minutes before the suggested time.

Scaling the Recipe

This recipe is easily scalable, making it simple to adjust based on your needs. If you are hosting a gathering, feel free to double or triple the quantities. Just ensure that you use multiple baking sheets to avoid overcrowding, which can lead to steaming rather than baking. When fries are too close together, they won’t achieve that perfect crispiness we all desire.

If you're cooking for fewer people, you can halve the recipe without any issues. Just adjust the seasonings accordingly; it’s worth measuring out the oil and spices to maintain the same level of flavor. Regardless of the quantity, the key is to maintain that single-layer spread on the baking sheet for optimal cooking.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use regular potatoes instead of sweet potatoes?

Yes, you can! Regular potatoes work well, but the flavor and nutritional profile will be different.

→ How can I make these fries spicier?

Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some chili powder to the seasoning mix for an extra kick!

→ What dips go well with sweet potato fries?

These fries pair wonderfully with garlic aioli, spicy ketchup, or a creamy avocado dip.

→ Can I make these fries ahead of time?

While it's best to enjoy them fresh, you can prep the sweet potato strips and store them in the fridge for a day before baking.