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Looking for a tasty snack that’s both easy to make and full of flavor? Crispy oven sweet potato fries are the answer! I’ll show you how to transform simple sweet potatoes into mouthwatering fries using just a few ingredients. You’ll enjoy a crunchy texture and can customize the spice to suit your taste. Let’s dive into this simple recipe that promises to satisfy your snack cravings!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Perfectly Crispy: The cornstarch coating ensures that these sweet potato fries turn out incredibly crispy, giving them a delightful texture that you’ll crave.
- Flavor Packed: The combination of smoked paprika and garlic powder adds a rich, smoky flavor that elevates these fries beyond the ordinary.
- Customizable Heat: Add cayenne pepper for an extra kick or leave it out for a milder flavor, making this recipe adaptable to your spice preference.
- Easy Cleanup: The use of parchment paper makes cleanup a breeze, allowing you to enjoy your crispy fries without the hassle of scrubbing pans.
Ingredients
List of Ingredients
– 2 large sweet potatoes
– 2 tablespoons cornstarch
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– ½ teaspoon salt
– ¼ teaspoon black pepper
– Optional: ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper for an extra spicy kick
To make crispy oven sweet potato fries, you need a few simple ingredients. First, choose two large sweet potatoes. Sweet potatoes give a sweet flavor and a nice texture.
Next, cornstarch is essential. It helps the fries get that extra crunch. You will also need two tablespoons of olive oil. The oil helps the seasonings stick and adds flavor.
For seasonings, use smoked paprika and garlic powder. These bring warmth and depth to the fries. Adding salt and black pepper will enhance the taste too. If you like heat, sprinkle in some cayenne pepper. This is optional but adds a nice kick.
These ingredients come together to create a simple and flavorful snack.

Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepping the Oven and Sweet Potatoes
First, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high heat helps the fries get nice and crispy. Next, line a spacious baking sheet with parchment paper. This makes it easy to remove the fries later and keeps the sheet clean.
Coating the Sweet Potato Fries
Now, take your sweet potatoes. Peel them and cut them into evenly sized fries. In a large mixing bowl, add the fries. Make sure they are in a single layer for even coating. Sprinkle 2 tablespoons of cornstarch over the fries. Use your hands or a spatula to toss them gently. This step is vital for crispiness!
Next, drizzle 2 tablespoons of olive oil over the fries. Add 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, ½ teaspoon of salt, and ¼ teaspoon of black pepper. If you like heat, add ¼ teaspoon of cayenne pepper. Toss everything together until the fries are well coated with the oil and seasonings.
Baking the Fries
Carefully spread the seasoned fries on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer. Make sure they do not overlap. This helps them crisp up while baking. Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. Flip the fries halfway through to ensure they cook evenly. This gives them that lovely golden-brown color. Once they are crispy, remove them from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. This resting time makes them even crunchier!
Tips & Tricks
Achieving Extra Crispiness
To get that perfect crunch, cornstarch is your best friend. It helps absorb moisture from the potatoes. When you sprinkle it on your fries, make sure to coat them evenly. This step is key for a crispy bite. Also, spacing the fries on the baking sheet is important. You want them in a single layer without any overlap. This allows hot air to circulate and crisp them up nicely.
Resting Time for Crunch
Letting your fries rest after baking is crucial. When you take them out of the oven, the steam inside can make them soggy. By resting them for a few minutes, you allow that steam to escape. This results in a crunchier fry that you will love.
Best Practices for Handling Ingredients
Cutting sweet potatoes evenly is vital for uniform cooking. Use a sharp knife for clean cuts. Aim for fries that are about the same size, around a quarter inch thick. This helps them cook evenly. When selecting sweet potatoes, look for firm ones with smooth skin. Avoid any that have soft spots or blemishes. Fresh sweet potatoes will give you the best flavor and texture in your fries.
Pro Tips
- Cut Evenly: Ensure all sweet potato fries are cut to the same size for even cooking and crispiness.
- Use Parchment Paper: This prevents the fries from sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.
- Don’t Overcrowd: Spread fries in a single layer on the baking sheet to allow for optimal air circulation and crisping.
- Rest Before Serving: Let the fries cool for a few minutes after baking to enhance their crunchiness.

Variations
Alternative Seasoning Ideas
You can change the flavor of your fries easily. Try different spice blends to keep things fun. Here are some ideas:
– Cajun Spice: Use a mix of paprika, cayenne, and garlic powder for a kick.
– Italian Herbs: Mix dried oregano, basil, and a touch of garlic for a savory twist.
– Sweet Cinnamon: Sprinkle cinnamon and a bit of brown sugar for a sweet treat.
You can choose sweet or savory options based on your mood. Use your favorite spices and make it your own!
Sweet Potato Fry Alternatives
If you want to switch things up, use other root vegetables. Here are some tasty options:
– Carrots: Cut them into fry shapes for a sweet and crunchy snack.
– Parsnips: They have a sweet, nutty flavor that pairs well with spices.
– Beets: They add a vibrant color and earthy taste to your meal.
Experimenting with these alternatives can lead to new favorites!
Baking vs. Air Frying
Baking and air frying each have their perks. Here’s how they compare:
– Baking: This method takes longer but gives you crisp fries with a rich flavor. You can cook a big batch at once.
– Air Frying: This method cooks faster and uses less oil. It still gives you crispy fries, but the texture may differ slightly.
Choose the method that fits your time and taste. Both ways will lead to delicious sweet potato fries!
Storage Info
How to Store Leftover Fries
To keep your leftover fries fresh, cool them first. Then, place them in an airtight container. This helps lock in moisture and flavor. Make sure to store them in the fridge. They are best eaten within three days for good taste.
Reheating Tips
To bring back their crispiness, use your oven. Preheat it to 400°F (200°C). Spread the fries on a baking sheet. Bake for about 10 to 15 minutes. This method helps retain texture. If you want a quick option, a toaster oven works well too. Just watch them closely so they don’t burn. Avoid using the microwave if you don’t want soggy fries. They lose their crunch that way. Enjoy your crispy oven sweet potato fries again!
FAQs
How do I make sweet potato fries extra crispy?
To make your sweet potato fries extra crispy, follow these tips:
– Use cornstarch: Tossing the fries in cornstarch helps absorb moisture. This is key for crispiness.
– High heat: Bake your fries at 425°F (220°C). This temperature ensures they brown well.
– Avoid overlap: Spread the fries out on the baking sheet. Overlapping causes steaming, which leads to sogginess.
– Flip halfway: Turn the fries during baking to achieve even cooking and crispness.
By using these methods, you’ll enjoy fries that are crunchy on the outside and soft inside.
Can I freeze sweet potato fries before baking?
Yes, you can freeze sweet potato fries! Here’s how:
– Prep before freezing: Cut your fries and toss them with cornstarch and seasonings.
– Flash freeze: Spread the fries on a baking sheet in a single layer. Freeze them for about an hour. This prevents them from sticking together.
– Store in a bag: After they freeze, transfer the fries to a freezer bag. Remove as much air as possible.
– Cooking from frozen: Bake them directly from the freezer. Increase the baking time by 5-10 minutes.
Freezing helps save time for later while still giving you that crispy texture.
What dips go well with sweet potato fries?
Sweet potato fries pair well with many tasty dips. Here are some popular options:
– Garlic aioli: Creamy and flavorful, it contrasts nicely with the sweetness of the fries.
– Spicy ketchup: Add a kick to your fries with zesty ketchup.
– Honey mustard: This sweet and tangy dip is a fun choice.
– Ranch dressing: A classic that brings a cool flavor to the table.
Experiment with these dips to find your favorite combination!
To make sweet potato fries, start with simple ingredients and easy steps. Preheat your oven and prep your sweet potatoes by cutting them evenly. Toss them with cornstarch, oil, and your favorite seasonings for tasty flavor. Remember to space them out on the baking sheet for crispy fries.
Try new spice blends or even other vegetables for fun twists! Store leftovers right and reheat properly for the best crunch. Making sweet potato fries can be quick and rewarding. Enjoy the process and share these tips with friend
Crispy Oven Sweet Potato Fries
Deliciously crispy sweet potato fries baked to perfection.
Course Appetizer
Cuisine American
Servings 4
Calories 150 kcal
- 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into evenly sized fries
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 0.5 teaspoon salt
- 0.25 teaspoon black pepper
- 0.25 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a spacious baking sheet with parchment paper for easy removal and cleanup after baking.
In a large mixing bowl, add your freshly cut sweet potato fries. Make sure to keep them in a single layer in the bowl for even coating.
Sprinkle the cornstarch over the fries evenly. Use your hands or a spatula to toss the fries gently until they are well-coated with cornstarch.
Next, drizzle the olive oil over the coated fries. Then, add the smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if you want some heat). Toss everything together again until the fries are thoroughly mixed.
Carefully spread the seasoned fries out on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer, ensuring they do not overlap.
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, flipping the fries halfway through the baking time.
Once they are crisped to perfection, remove the fries from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes.
For a delightful serving experience, present the crispy fries in a charming rustic basket lined with parchment paper. Pair them with your choice of dipping sauce, such as homemade garlic aioli or a zesty spicy ketchup, to add an exciting flavor dimension!
Keyword crispy, oven-baked, sweet potato fries
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