Baked Sweet Potato Fries: A Crispy, Flavorful, and Healthy Side Dish
Golden, beautifully seasoned Crispy Baked Sweet Potato Fries fries have a way of stealing the spotlight at any meal—especially when they’re baked to crispy perfection. Home cooks often struggle to achieve that ideal balance of tender centers and crunchy edges, but with the right techniques, baked sweet potato fries can be just as irresistible as their deep-fried counterparts. Aromatic spices, vibrant color, and natural sweetness come together to create a side dish that feels both comforting and wholesome.
Baking sweet potato fries transforms a simple vegetable into something special, making them perfect for busy weeknights, family gatherings, or even a healthier game-day snack. Their versatility is another reason they’ve become such a kitchen favorite: you can season them in endless ways, serve them with different dips, or even pair them with hearty mains like burgers, grilled chicken, or grain bowls. With a few easy steps and pantry staples, you’ll have a batch of crispy fries that satisfy cravings without the excess oil.
Ingredients Needed
Use the table below to see exactly what you’ll need—along with approximate calorie counts per ingredient portion.
| Ingredient | Amount | Approx. Calories |
|---|---|---|
| Sweet potatoes | 2 large (about 1.5 lbs) | 300 kcal |
| Olive oil | 2 tbsp | 240 kcal |
| Cornstarch (optional, for extra crispiness) | 1 tbsp | 30 kcal |
| Salt | 1 tsp | 0 kcal |
| Black pepper | ½ tsp | 3 kcal |
| Paprika | 1 tsp | 6 kcal |
| Garlic powder | 1 tsp | 10 kcal |
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
1. Preheat and Prepare
Set your oven to 425°F (220°C). A high temperature is essential for crisping the fries without burning them.
2. Slice the Sweet Potatoes
Peel the sweet potatoes if you prefer a smoother texture, or leave the skin on for extra fiber. Cut them into evenly sized matchsticks—aim for ¼-inch thick pieces to ensure even cooking.
3. Soak for Extra Crispiness (Optional but Recommended)
Place the sliced potatoes in cold water and soak for 20–30 minutes. This step removes excess starch and helps the fries crisp up better in the oven.
4. Dry Thoroughly
Pat the fries completely dry using a clean towel. Any remaining moisture will cause them to steam instead of bake.
5. Toss With Oil and Seasonings
In a large bowl, combine the fries with olive oil, salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder.
For added crunch, sprinkle the cornstarch over the fries before adding oil.
6. Arrange on the Baking Sheet
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Spread the fries out in a single layer, making sure they do not overlap. Overcrowding leads to soggy fries.
7. Bake and Flip
Bake for 15 minutes, then flip the fries using a spatula. Continue baking for another 12–15 minutes until crisp and lightly browned on the edges.
8. Rest and Serve
Let the fries rest for 5 minutes—this helps them firm up. Add a pinch of extra salt if desired and serve warm.
Tips for Customizing the Recipe
- Make them spicy: Add chili powder, cayenne pepper, or chipotle seasoning.
- Go sweet: Mix in cinnamon and a drizzle of honey or maple syrup after baking.
- Try fresh herbs: Rosemary, thyme, or parsley add brightness and aroma.
- Make them smoky: Use smoked paprika or a touch of liquid smoke.
- Try alternative oils: Avocado oil works great for high-heat baking.
- Pair with creative dips: Chipotle mayo, garlic aioli, tzatziki, or sriracha ketchup elevate the flavor.
Nutritional Information
Sweet potatoes are naturally rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and fiber, making them a nutritious alternative to traditional fries.
| Nutrient | Amount (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~150 |
| Fat | 5–6g |
| Carbohydrates | 24–26g |
| Fiber | 3–4g |
| Protein | 1–2g |
| Vitamin A | Over 200% of daily recommended value |
| Potassium | ~400mg |
Serving Suggestions
Baked sweet potato fries fit seamlessly into various meals and cuisines. Consider pairing them with:
- Grilled chicken or turkey burgers
- Veggie bowls with quinoa, greens, and roasted vegetables
- Breakfast plates featuring eggs and avocado
- Wraps and sandwiches for added texture and flavor
- Game-day spreads as a healthier appetizer
They also shine when served with a trio of dips—think spicy mayo, herb yogurt sauce, and classic ketchup.
Baked Sweet Potato Fries: A Crispy, Flavorful, and Healthy Side Dish
3-4
servings10
minutes25
minutes150
kcalIngredients
2 large sweet potatoes (about 1.5 lbs)
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp cornstarch (optional, for extra crispiness)
1 tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
1 tsp paprika
1 tsp garlic powder
Directions
- Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Slice sweet potatoes into evenly sized ¼-inch thick fries.
- (Optional but recommended) Soak fries in cold water for 20–30 minutes to remove excess starch.
- Drain and dry thoroughly with a clean towel.
- Transfer to a bowl and sprinkle cornstarch over the fries. Toss to coat.
- Add olive oil, salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder, then toss again.
- Spread fries on the baking sheet in a single layer, ensuring they don’t overlap.
- Bake 15 minutes, flip, then bake for another 12–15 minutes until crisp and golden.
- Let rest for 5 minutes before serving for the best texture.
Recipe Video
Notes
- For the crispiest results, make sure the sweet potato slices are completely dry before seasoning, and always spread them out in a single layer on the baking sheet. Overlapping fries will steam instead of crisp. If your oven tends to run hot, keep an eye on the fries during the last few minutes of baking to prevent burning.
FAQs
1. How do I make sweet potato fries crispy in the oven?
Achieving crispiness comes down to a few key steps: slicing the fries evenly, soaking them in cold water, drying them completely, using a light coating of oil, tossing them in a little cornstarch, and baking at a high temperature (425°F/220°C). Spreading them out on the baking sheet also prevents steaming.
2. Do I have to peel the sweet potatoes?
No, peeling is optional. Leaving the skin on adds extra fiber and nutrients while saving prep time. Just scrub the potatoes well before slicing.
3. Can I make these fries without oil?
Yes, but they will not get as crispy. If you prefer oil-free fries, use parchment paper and consider adding a bit of cornstarch to help with browning.
4. How long do baked sweet potato fries last?
They keep well for 3–4 days when stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. For best texture, reheat them in the oven or air fryer instead of the microwave.
5. Can I freeze sweet potato fries?
Yes! Par-bake them for 10 minutes, let them cool completely, then freeze in a single layer. Transfer to a freezer bag and store for up to 3 months. When ready, bake straight from frozen.
Conclusion
Baked sweet potato fries offer a simple, satisfying, and nutritious side dish that works for almost any occasion. With minimal ingredients and a handful of helpful techniques, you can create fries that are crisp on the outside, tender inside, and packed with natural sweetness and flavor. Whether you like them smoky, spicy, or lightly seasoned, these fries are endlessly adaptable and always crowd-pleasing. Once you master the method, you’ll find yourself making them again and again.
