Crispy Oven Baked Sweet Potato Fries Recipe
Prepare to indulge in the ultimate snack that’s both crispy and wholesome with this Oven Baked Sweet Potato Fries recipe. These fries come out perfectly golden and crunchy on the outside while staying tender inside, offering a healthier alternative to traditional fried versions. Loaded with flavor and lightly seasoned, they’re ready in minutes to satisfy your craving without the guilt. Whether as a side or a standalone treat, Oven Baked Sweet Potato Fries hit the spot every time.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Healthy Alternative: Uses minimal oil to keep calories low without sacrificing crispiness.
- Quick & Easy: Simple prep and baking make it perfect for any day of the week.
- Versatile Flavor: Mild seasoning pairs well with any dip or main dish.
- Crispy Texture: The oven baking method ensures fries are crunchy outside and soft inside.
- Natural Sweetness: Sweet potatoes provide a deliciously subtle sweetness without added sugars.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe is all about straightforward, fresh ingredients that come together to create irresistible Oven Baked Sweet Potato Fries. Each element plays a role in achieving the perfect balance of flavor, texture, and color.
- Sweet Potatoes: The star of the show providing natural sweetness and vibrant orange color.
- Olive Oil: Just enough to lightly coat for crispiness without weighing fries down.
- Salt: Enhances natural flavors and brings out a savory balance.
- Smoked Paprika: Adds a mild smoky depth and warm color contrast.
- Garlic Powder: Introduces subtle aromatic notes for extra flavor.
- Black Pepper: A touch of heat to balance the sweetness.
- Cornstarch (optional): Creates an extra-crispy exterior by absorbing moisture.
Variations for Oven Baked Sweet Potato Fries
Feel free to spice up or simplify these Oven Baked Sweet Potato Fries to suit your preferences or dietary needs. The recipe is very flexible, making it easy to customize while keeping all the deliciousness intact.
- Spicy Kick: Add cayenne pepper or chili powder for some heat.
- Herb Infusion: Sprinkle dried rosemary or thyme for an earthy flavor twist.
- Parmesan Style: Toss fries with grated Parmesan cheese right after baking for a cheesy touch.
- Sweet & Savory: Drizzle honey or maple syrup after baking paired with a pinch of cinnamon.
- Gluten-Free Crisp: Use arrowroot powder instead of cornstarch for a naturally gluten-free version.
How to Make Oven Baked Sweet Potato Fries
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Set your oven to 425°F (220°C) to ensure the fries will bake quickly and develop a nice crispy texture.
Step 2: Prepare The Sweet Potatoes
Wash and peel the sweet potatoes, then cut them into evenly sized sticks about 1/4 to 1/2 inch thick for uniform baking.
Step 3: Toss With Seasonings
In a large bowl, toss the sweet potato sticks with olive oil, salt, smoked paprika, garlic powder, black pepper, and optional cornstarch until every fry is lightly coated.
Step 4: Arrange on Baking Sheet
Spread the fries out in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet, making sure they don’t touch much to allow airflow and crispiness.
Step 5: Bake & Flip
Bake for about 15 minutes, then flip each fry carefully to promote even browning. Bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until golden and crisp.
Step 6: Serve Warm
Remove from oven and let the fries cool slightly before serving to maintain their crunchiness.
Pro Tips for Making Oven Baked Sweet Potato Fries
- Cut Evenly: Uniform thickness ensures fries cook evenly without burning or being soggy.
- Don’t Overcrowd: Give fries enough space on the baking sheet to get crisp rather than steam.
- Use Parchment Paper: Prevents sticking and helps with easy cleanup.
- Cornstarch Trick: Lightly dusting fries with cornstarch before oil gives an extra crispy crust.
- High Heat Baking: Baking at a higher temperature crisps fries faster without drying them out.
How to Serve Oven Baked Sweet Potato Fries
Garnishes
Add freshly chopped parsley or cilantro for a burst of color and freshness. A sprinkle of flaky sea salt right before serving elevates the flavor too.
Side Dishes
These fries pair beautifully with burgers, grilled chicken, or even a fresh salad for a balanced meal that’s quick and flavorful.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve Oven Baked Sweet Potato Fries in rustic baskets lined with parchment paper for a casual vibe or plate with assorted dipping sauces like garlic aioli, chipotle mayo, or classic ketchup to mix things up.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place leftover fries in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days, though they’re best enjoyed fresh for maximum crispiness.
Freezing
Freeze baked sweet potato fries in a single layer on a tray, then transfer to a resealable freezer bag; reheat directly from frozen in the oven for best results.
Reheating
Reheat leftover fries in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 5-7 minutes to restore crispness; avoid microwaving as it makes them soggy.
FAQs
Can I use regular potatoes for this recipe?
Yes, but keep in mind regular potatoes require a slightly longer baking time and different seasoning for best results.
How do I get my sweet potato fries extra crispy?
Using cornstarch before oil, spacing fries evenly on the baking sheet, and baking at a high temperature all contribute to crispier fries.
Are Oven Baked Sweet Potato Fries gluten-free?
Absolutely. This recipe naturally contains no gluten, but always check your seasoning ingredients to be sure.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
Yes! The recipe is fully plant-based as written, using only sweet potatoes, oil, and spices.
What dipping sauces go well with Oven Baked Sweet Potato Fries?
Great options include garlic aioli, spicy sriracha mayo, honey mustard, or classic ketchup.
Final Thoughts
There’s truly nothing like the joy of biting into a warm, perfectly crispy batch of Oven Baked Sweet Potato Fries. Simple to make and bursting with flavor, this recipe is a must-try for anyone craving a tasty yet healthy snack. Whether you’re serving them up at a family dinner or as a quick weekday treat, these fries never fail to impress. So grab your sweet potatoes, preheat that oven, and let’s get baking!
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Oven Baked Sweet Potato Fries
Oven Baked Sweet Potato Fries offer a healthy, crispy, and flavorful alternative to traditional fried fries. These fries are perfectly golden and crunchy on the outside while tender on the inside, lightly seasoned with smoked paprika, garlic powder, and black pepper. Using minimal oil and optional cornstarch for extra crispiness, this quick and easy recipe suits any occasion, whether as a snack or side dish.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
- Total Time: 35-40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 large sweet potatoes (about 1 to 1.5 pounds)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional for extra crispiness)
Instructions
- Preheat Your Oven: Set your oven to 425°F (220°C) to ensure the fries will bake quickly and develop a nice crispy texture.
- Prepare The Sweet Potatoes: Wash and peel the sweet potatoes, then cut them into evenly sized sticks about 1/4 to 1/2 inch thick for uniform baking.
- Toss With Seasonings: In a large bowl, toss the sweet potato sticks with olive oil, salt, smoked paprika, garlic powder, black pepper, and optional cornstarch until every fry is lightly coated.
- Arrange on Baking Sheet: Spread the fries out in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet, making sure they don’t touch much to allow airflow and crispiness.
- Bake & Flip: Bake for about 15 minutes, then flip each fry carefully to promote even browning. Bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until golden and crisp.
- Serve Warm: Remove from oven and let the fries cool slightly before serving to maintain their crunchiness.
Notes
- Cut Evenly: Uniform thickness ensures fries cook evenly without burning or being soggy.
- Don’t Overcrowd: Give fries enough space on the baking sheet to get crisp rather than steam.
- Use Parchment Paper: Prevents sticking and helps with easy cleanup.
- Cornstarch Trick: Lightly dusting fries with cornstarch before oil gives an extra crispy crust.
- High Heat Baking: Baking at a higher temperature crisps fries faster without drying them out.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 of recipe (about 150g)
- Calories: 150 kcal
- Sugar: 5 g
- Sodium: 230 mg
- Fat: 5 g
- Saturated Fat: 0.7 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 25 g
- Fiber: 3.5 g
- Protein: 2 g
- Cholesterol: 0 mg
Keywords: oven baked sweet potato fries, healthy sweet potato fries, crispy sweet potato fries, baked sweet potato snacks, gluten free fries