Baked Sweet Potato Fries

Name: Baked Sweet Potato Fries
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 large sweet potatoes; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/2 teaspoon sea salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Highlighted under: Creative Baking Favorites

I absolutely love making Baked Sweet Potato Fries because they combine the comforting texture of classic fries with a healthy twist. The first time I tried this recipe, I was surprised at how easy it was to achieve that perfect crispy outside while keeping the inside fluffy and tender. The natural sweetness of the sweet potatoes shines through, especially when paired with a sprinkle of sea salt and smoked paprika. It’s a deliciously satisfying side dish that I often whip up for family dinners or as a snack to enjoy during movie nights.

Created by

Cassandra Reed

Last updated on 2026-02-08T00:45:36.593Z

When I first made Baked Sweet Potato Fries, I was skeptical about how they'd compare to the traditional fries I grew up adoring. To my surprise, they turned out to be incredibly delicious, especially when roasted until golden brown. The key lies in cutting the sweet potatoes into uniform shapes and giving them ample space on the baking tray, allowing them to crisp up beautifully.

Experimenting with different seasonings also took this dish to another level. I found that a mix of garlic powder and cayenne added just the right kick without overpowering the sweet flavor. It's moments like these that remind me how fun and simple healthy cooking can be!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Crispy on the outside, fluffy on the inside that satisfies your fry cravings
Natural sweetness enhanced by your favorite spices for unique flavor
Easy to prepare with just a few ingredients available in your pantry

Getting the Perfect Cut

When preparing your sweet potatoes, the way you cut them can significantly impact the texture and cooking time of your fries. Aim for uniform strips about 1/4 inch thick—this ensures they will cook evenly and achieve that desirable crispiness. Thicker cuts may result in a soft interior, while thinner ones are prone to burning. If you prefer wedges, keep them no thicker than 1/2 inch.

I recommend using a sharp knife or a mandoline for consistent cuts, which will help achieve an even bake. Additionally, consider soaking the cut fries in cold water for about 30 minutes before seasoning; this helps draw out excess starch and can lead to a crispier result when baked.

The Seasoning Game

The seasoning blend in this recipe is crucial for elevating the natural sweetness of the sweet potatoes. Smoked paprika not only adds a beautiful color but also infuses a smoky flavor that complements the fries perfectly. If you're looking for a little extra kick, consider adding cayenne pepper or chili powder to the mix. Just a pinch can make a significant difference in flavor.

You can customize the seasonings to fit your taste preferences. For a Mediterranean twist, try using dried oregano and thyme instead of garlic powder. Alternatively, if you're following a low-sodium diet, reduce the amount of sea salt or use a salt alternative while still achieving a great flavor profile.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

If you're preparing these fries in advance, they can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, spread them on a baking sheet and pop them back in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 10 minutes to regain their crispiness. Microwaving might make them soggy, so I advise against it unless in a pinch.

These Baked Sweet Potato Fries make an excellent side dish for a variety of meals—from grilled chicken to veggie burgers. You can also serve them as a snack with a dipping sauce like homemade garlic aioli or a spicy ketchup for added zing. They’re versatile enough to complement almost any cuisine!

Ingredients

For the Sweet Potato Fries

2 large sweet potatoes
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon sea salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Enjoy these fries with your favorite dipping sauce!

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). This higher temperature helps in achieving that crispy texture.

Prepare the Sweet Potatoes

Wash and peel the sweet potatoes, then cut them into thin, even strips or wedges.

Toss with Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the sweet potato strips with olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Toss until evenly coated.

Spread on Baking Sheet

Spread the sweet potatoes in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Make sure they’re not overcrowded.

Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy.

Serve

Remove from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your delicious Baked Sweet Potato Fries!

Feel free to customize the seasonings to fit your taste!

Pro Tips

For an extra crunch, soak the cut sweet potato fries in cold water for 30 minutes before baking. This removes excess starch and enhances crispiness.

Troubleshooting Crispy Fries

Achieving the perfect crispy texture can sometimes be a challenge. If your fries come out soggy, it might be due to overcrowding on the baking sheet. Ensure that each fry has enough room to breathe and crisp up; this may require baking in batches if you're making a larger quantity.

Another common issue is uneven cooking. If you notice some fries are browning faster than others, consider flipping them or rotating the baking sheet halfway through the cooking time. This ensures even heat distribution and promotes a uniform golden color.

Scaling the Recipe

This recipe is straightforward to scale up or down based on your needs. For smaller servings, you can easily halve the ingredient amounts and still produce a fantastic result. Just be mindful that cooking times may vary slightly, so keep an eye on your fries as they bake.

If you're doubling the recipe, it’s best to use two baking sheets and bake them on separate oven racks. Rotate the sheets halfway through to ensure all the fries get evenly cooked and crispy without needing to increase the temperature or cooking time.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use regular potatoes instead of sweet potatoes?

Yes, you can substitute regular potatoes, but the flavor will differ.

→ How do I store leftover fries?

Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for best results.

→ Can I make this recipe vegan?

Absolutely! This recipe is naturally vegan with no adjustments needed.

→ What dipping sauces pair well with these fries?

These fries are delicious with ketchup, spicy mayo, or even a tangy yogurt dip.