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 teaspoon garlic powder; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Sweet Creations

I absolutely love making baked sweet potato fries at home—they're such a delicious and healthier alternative to regular fries! The natural sweetness of the sweet potatoes combined with a light sprinkle of spices makes them incredibly flavorful. Baking them allows for that perfect crispiness without the excess oil. I often whip these up as a snack or a side dish, and they are always a hit with family and friends. Trust me, once you try these, you'll never go back to store-bought fries again!

Created by

Piper Andrews

Last updated on 2026-02-08T00:45:36.730Z

I remember the first time I decided to bake sweet potato fries instead of frying them. The aroma that filled my kitchen was absolutely divine! I experimented with a few seasonings, and the blend of paprika and garlic powder became a favorite. This method not only cuts down on fat but also retains the vibrant color and nutrients of the sweet potatoes. Baking them at a high temperature is key to achieving that perfect crisp.

One day, while having dinner with friends, I served these alongside some homemade burgers. Their bright color and crispy texture were the talk of the evening! A secret tip: don’t overcrowd the baking sheet to allow for proper airflow, ensuring each fry turns out golden and delicious. You won’t believe how quick and easy these are to whip up!

Why You'll Love These Baked Sweet Potato Fries
Naturally sweet and savory flavor profile
Crispy exterior with a tender inside
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for any meal
A healthier alternative to traditional fries

The Importance of Cutting Technique

Cutting your sweet potatoes into even fry shapes is crucial for ensuring they cook uniformly. Aim for pieces that are about 1/4 inch thick. If the fries are too thick, they may end up mushy inside, while overly thin fries can burn quickly. A sharp knife will make this process smoother. As a tip, you can use a mandoline slicer for consistent thickness, which also speeds up the preparation time.

After cutting, soak the sweet potato fries in cold water for at least 30 minutes to help remove excess starch. This step helps achieve that desirable crispiness in the final bake. Just be sure to dry them thoroughly before seasoning, as excess moisture can lead to soggy fries.

Seasoning for Maximum Flavor

The beauty of baked sweet potato fries lies in their ability to take on various flavors, so feel free to experiment with seasonings. Besides the paprika and garlic powder, you might try adding cumin for a warm, earthy note or a pinch of cayenne for heat. Just keep an eye on the quantities—as these spices can easily overpower the natural sweetness of the potatoes.

Mixing the seasoning with olive oil not only helps the spices adhere to the fries but also assists in achieving a golden, crispy exterior on baking. Make sure every fry is coated well; this step is key to enhancing their flavor without adding unnecessary fat.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients for the best baked sweet potato fries!

Ingredients

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

Make sure to wash and peel the sweet potatoes before slicing them.

Instructions

Follow these easy steps to create your baked sweet potato fries!

Prepare the Sweet Potatoes

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Wash and peel the sweet potatoes, then cut them into thin, even fry shapes.

Season the Fries

In a large bowl, combine the cut sweet potatoes with olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Toss until they are evenly coated.

Bake the Fries

Spread the fries in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 25-30 minutes, turning halfway through until they are crispy and golden.

Serve and Enjoy

Allow the fries to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy them on their own or with your favorite dipping sauce!

Enjoy your homemade baked sweet potato fries fresh out of the oven!

Pro Tips

For extra crispiness, soak the cut sweet potatoes in cold water for 30 minutes before seasoning and baking. This helps remove excess starch.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

If you want to prep your sweet potato fries in advance, you can cut them up and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. To maintain optimal quality, soak them in cold water and drain before baking. This ensures they stay crisp once cooked.

Leftover fries can be stored in the fridge for up to three days. When reheating, I recommend using an oven preheated to 400°F (200°C) to regain their crispiness—simply bake for about 10 minutes. Avoid microwaving as it can lead to a soggy texture.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

These sweet potato fries are fantastic on their own, but they pair beautifully with various dipping sauces. Try a zesty lime cilantro sauce for brightness or a creamy garlic dip for richness. You can even make a spicy sriracha mayo by mixing mayonnaise with sriracha to taste.

For a complete meal, serve the fries alongside grilled chicken or a hearty salad. The natural sweetness complements savory dishes wonderfully, making for an appealing and balanced plate.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these fries ahead of time?

Yes, you can prep the sweet potatoes and store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Just remember to add oil and seasonings before baking.

→ Are sweet potato fries healthier than regular fries?

Yes! Sweet potatoes are lower in calories and packed with vitamins, making them a healthier choice when baked.

→ Can I use other seasonings?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices like cayenne pepper, onion powder, or even cinnamon for a sweet twist.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftover fries in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven to maintain crispness.