Baked Sweet Potato Fries

Name: Baked Sweet Potato Fries
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 large sweet potatoes; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon paprika; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional); Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Highlighted under: Comfort Cooking Corner

I absolutely love making baked sweet potato fries because they offer a delicious and healthier alternative to traditional fries. The vibrant orange hue and sweet flavor elevate any meal, and I find that they pair exceptionally well with a variety of dips. I appreciate how easy they are to prepare, and I can whip them up in no time, making them a perfect snack or side dish. Plus, they’re so versatile - I can season them in countless ways to keep things interesting.

Created by

Eden Clarke

Last updated on 2026-02-08T08:41:36.447Z

When I first discovered baked sweet potato fries, I was amazed at how easy it was to create such a tasty side dish at home. I experimented with various seasonings and found that a mix of paprika, garlic powder, and a hint of cayenne worked wonderfully to enhance the natural sweetness of the potatoes. I love serving them alongside my favorite homemade dips, and they never fail to impress.

One of the greatest tips I learned is to soak the cut sweet potatoes in cold water for about 30 minutes before baking. This simple step helps to remove excess starch and results in a crispier fry once baked. Trust me, this makes a world of difference!

What You'll Love About This Recipe
Crispy on the outside and tender on the inside
Naturally sweet flavor that satisfies cravings
Simple ingredients that are easy to find

Technique for the Perfect Crunch

To achieve that irresistible crispy exterior, soaking the cut sweet potato fries in cold water is essential. This step removes excess starch, which can cause the fries to stick together and become soggy. If you're short on time, soaking for just 15-20 minutes can still help, but for optimal results, a 30-minute soak is ideal. After soaking, ensure you thoroughly drain and pat the fries dry with a kitchen towel. The drier the fries are, the better they will crisp up in the oven.

When seasoning your fries, evenly coating them with oil and spices is crucial. A large mixing bowl works best for this; simply toss the fries gently to avoid breaking them. If you like your fries spicier, don't hesitate to adjust the cayenne pepper amount or even try adding a pinch of chili powder or smoked paprika for an added depth of flavor. Make sure each fry is well-coated, as this will enhance both taste and texture during baking.

Baking Tips for Optimal Flavor

While preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C) is standard, consider using a convection setting if your oven has one. This circulates the hot air around the fries, promoting even cooking and increasing crispiness. If not using convection, place the baking sheet in the middle rack to ensure even heat distribution, avoiding burning while also properly cooking the fries inside. If you notice your fries not browning sufficiently, a quick broil for the last few minutes can help achieve that beautiful golden color.

To prevent your fries from steaming, avoid overcrowding the baking sheet; spread them in a single layer with plenty of space in between. This technique allows hot air to circulate freely around each fry for maximum crispiness. If you are making a larger batch, consider using two baking sheets or baking in batches to give each fry its chance to shine. Keeping this in mind can make the difference between a soggy or crunchy sweet potato fry.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients for your homemade baked sweet potato fries.

Ingredients

2 large sweet potatoes
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Make sure to wash and peel your sweet potatoes before dicing them into fries.

Instructions

Follow these steps to create perfectly baked sweet potato fries.

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Prepare the Sweet Potatoes

Peel the sweet potatoes and cut them into evenly-sized fries, about 1/4 inch thick.

Soak the Fries

Soak the cut fries in cold water for at least 30 minutes to help achieve a crispy texture.

Season the Fries

Drain and pat the fries dry. In a large bowl, combine the fries with olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and cayenne pepper.

Bake

Spread the seasoned fries onto the prepared baking sheet in a single layer. Bake for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until crispy and golden.

Serve

Remove from the oven, garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce.

Enjoy your delicious, homemade baked sweet potato fries!

Pro Tips

For extra crispiness, try using a mandoline to slice the sweet potatoes thinly, and ensure there is enough space on the baking sheet for air circulation.

Serving Suggestions

Baked sweet potato fries are incredibly versatile and pair perfectly with various dips. My personal favorite is a creamy avocado dip, which balances the sweetness of the fries beautifully. Alternatively, a zesty yogurt sauce with lime and cilantro works wonderfully to cut through the richness of the fries. For a classic take, serve them alongside homemade ketchup or a spicy mayo blend. These fries also make a delightful topping to salads for added texture and nutrition.

For a fun twist, consider adding cheese to your fries during the last few minutes of baking. Cheddar, feta, or even a sprinkle of nutritional yeast can elevate the flavor profile and make for an indulgent appetizer. Additionally, you can toss them with fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme right after baking for an aromatic finish. The possibilities with just these sweet potato fries are endless, allowing you to customize them according to your taste preferences.

Storage and Reheating

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. However, note that reheated fries might not be as crispy as fresh out of the oven. To retain some crispiness, consider reheating them on a baking sheet in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes. You can turn them halfway through to ensure even reheating, making them a quick and convenient snack or side dish later.

For long-term storage, you can freeze uncooked sweet potato fries. After cutting and soaking them, spread the fries in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be cooked directly from frozen—just add a few extra minutes to the baking time, and they’ll emerge just as crispy as freshly made fries. This preparation method is perfect for meal prep and having a quick snack on hand!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of potatoes?

Yes, regular potatoes can be used, but the flavor and texture will differ.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store any leftover fries in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days, and reheat in the oven for best results.

→ Can I make these fries spicier?

Absolutely! Add more cayenne pepper or sprinkle some chili powder for an extra kick.

→ What dipping sauces pair well with these fries?

These fries are delicious with garlic aioli, spicy ketchup, or a creamy ranch dipping sauce.