Crispy Oven Baked Sweet Potato Fries Recipe
Introduction
Sweet potato fries are a delicious and healthier alternative to regular fries, offering a naturally sweet flavor with a crispy finish. This oven-baked version ensures they come out perfectly crunchy without the need for deep frying.
Ingredients
- 2 medium sweet potatoes (peeled (optional) and cut into fries)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika (smoked paprika is optional for extra flavor)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch (for extra crispiness)
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Place a baking sheet inside the oven while it heats to get it nice and hot.
- Step 2: Peel the sweet potatoes if desired and cut them into 1/4 inch thick fries, aiming for uniform pieces to ensure even cooking.
- Step 3: Place the cut fries in a bowl of cold water and soak for 30 minutes to remove excess starch, which helps achieve crispiness.
- Step 4: Drain and pat the fries completely dry with a paper towel. In a large bowl, toss them with olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, black pepper, and cornstarch if using, ensuring everything is evenly coated.
- Step 5: Carefully remove the hot baking sheet from the oven and spread the fries out in a single layer without overcrowding. Bake for 25-30 minutes, turning halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.
- Step 6: Remove from the oven and let the fries cool for a few minutes to firm up before serving.
Tips & Variations
- For extra flavor, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder when seasoning.
- Using cornstarch is key to crispiness but can be omitted for a lighter coating if preferred.
- Serve with your favorite dipping sauce like garlic aioli or spicy ketchup for added enjoyment.
- Cut fries thinner if you want them crispier or thicker for a softer interior.
Storage
Store leftover sweet potato fries in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat and maintain some crispiness, spread them on a baking sheet and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 5-10 minutes. Avoid microwaving to prevent sogginess.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I leave the sweet potatoes unpeeled?
Yes, leaving the skin on is optional. It adds extra texture and nutrients, but peeling results in a smoother fry.
How do I make sure my fries turn out crispy?
Soaking the cut fries in cold water to remove excess starch, drying them thoroughly, using cornstarch, and baking on a hot preheated sheet in a single layer all help achieve crispiness.
PrintCrispy Oven Baked Sweet Potato Fries Recipe
Crispy Oven Baked Sweet Potato Fries are a healthier alternative to traditional fried fries, seasoned with garlic powder, paprika, and a hint of black pepper. These fries are soaked in water to remove excess starch, tossed with olive oil and spices, then baked to golden perfection for a crunchy and flavorful snack or side dish.
- Prep Time: 40 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegan
Ingredients
Sweet Potatoes
- 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled (optional) and cut into fries
Seasonings and Coating
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika (smoked paprika optional for extra flavor)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch (for extra crispiness)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and place a baking sheet inside to heat up, ensuring a hot surface for crisp fries.
- Prepare the Sweet Potatoes: Peel the sweet potatoes if desired, then cut them into uniform 1/4 inch thick fries for even cooking.
- Soak the Fries: Soak the cut fries in a bowl of cold water for 30 minutes to remove excess starch, which helps achieve a crispier texture.
- Season the Fries: Drain and thoroughly pat the fries dry. Toss them in a large bowl with olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, black pepper, and cornstarch to evenly coat the fries and enhance crispiness.
- Bake the Fries: Carefully remove the hot baking sheet from the oven and spread the fries in a single layer without overcrowding. Bake for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.
- Check for Crispiness: Remove the fries from the oven once crisp and golden, let them cool slightly, and serve immediately for best texture.
Notes
- Peeling sweet potatoes is optional; the skin adds nutrients and texture.
- Soaking fries removes excess starch, essential for crispiness.
- Using cornstarch helps to create a crunchier crust on the fries.
- Spread fries in a single layer to avoid sogginess.
- Flip fries halfway through baking for even cooking.
- Serve immediately for the best texture, as fries tend to soften when cooled too long.
Keywords: sweet potato fries, baked fries, crispy fries, healthy fries, oven baked sweet potatoes, vegan snack
