Tired of limp, soggy sweet potato fries that just don’t hit the spot? Imagine biting into perfectly crispy, slightly sweet, and savory Crispy Oven Baked Sweet Potato Fries, made right in your own kitchen! I’m going to let you in on all my secrets for achieving that coveted restaurant-quality crisp every single time, so get ready to ditch the disappointment and embrace sweet potato fry perfection!
Ingredients
What You’ll Need:
- 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into 1/4-inch thick fries
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (or avocado oil)
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch (or tapioca starch)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper (or to taste)
- Optional: Pinch of cayenne pepper for a little heat
Getting Ready: The Prep Work That Matters
Before we even think about turning on the oven, a little prep work is key to Sweetpotato Baked Fries success. Don’t skip these steps; they’re the foundation for that irresistible crisp we’re chasing!
Choosing the Right Sweet Potatoes:
Not all sweet potatoes are created equal! Look for firm sweet potatoes with smooth skin. Avoid any with soft spots or sprouts. The color doesn’t matter too much – both the orange-fleshed and the paler varieties will work well.
Cutting the Fries:
Consistency is key! Aim for fries that are about 1/4-inch thick. This ensures even cooking and that satisfying crunch. If they’re too thick, they’ll be soft in the middle; too thin, and they’ll burn before they crisp up. I find it easiest to slice the sweet potato into planks, then cut the planks into fries.
The Soaking Secret (Don’t Skip This!):
This is HUGE. Soaking the fries in cold water for at least 30 minutes (or even up to 2 hours) is crucial for drawing out excess starch. This helps them crisp up beautifully in the oven. Trust me, it’s worth the wait. Simply place the cut fries in a large bowl of cold water and let them soak. Drain them thoroughly and pat them completely dry with paper towels before moving on.
Step-by-Step Instructions: From Prep to Plate
Let’s Get Cooking!
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Dry the Fries Completely: After soaking, pat the fries REALLY dry with paper towels. I cannot stress this enough. The drier they are, the crispier they’ll get.
- Toss with Oil and Spices: In a large bowl, toss the dried sweet potato fries with olive oil, cornstarch, garlic powder, smoked paprika, onion powder, salt, pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using). Make sure the fries are evenly coated. The cornstarch is another key ingredient; it helps create a crispy coating.
- Arrange on Baking Sheet: Spread the fries in a single layer on a large baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Make sure they’re not overcrowded. If they are, use two baking sheets. Overcrowding will steam the fries instead of baking them, and you’ll end up with soggy fries.
- Bake: Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the fries are golden brown and crispy. Keep a close eye on them during the last few minutes to prevent burning.
- Serve Immediately: Serve your Sweet Potato Fries In Oven immediately for the best flavor and crispiness. They’re delicious on their own or with your favorite dipping sauce.
Tips and Tricks for Ultimate Crispiness
Want to take your Sweet Potato Fries Recipe Oven to the next level? Here are a few extra tips and tricks:
The Double Bake Method:
For extra crispy fries, try the double bake method. Bake the fries at 350°F (175°C) for 15 minutes, then increase the oven temperature to 425°F (220°C) and bake for another 10-15 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.
Broiling for the Final Touch:
If your fries aren’t quite crispy enough after baking, you can broil them for a minute or two at the end. Watch them VERY closely, as they can burn quickly under the broiler. This is best used as a last resort.
Spice It Up:
Don’t be afraid to experiment with different spices! Try adding chili powder, cumin, or even a little cinnamon for a unique flavor. A sprinkle of parmesan cheese after baking is also delicious.
Don’t Overcrowd the Pan:
Remember, the key to crispy fries is to allow air to circulate around them. If you overcrowd the pan, the fries will steam instead of bake, resulting in soggy fries. Use two baking sheets if necessary.
Serving Suggestions: What to Pair With Your Fries
These Sweet Potato Fries Recipes Baked are incredibly versatile! Here are a few ideas for serving them:
- Dipping Sauces: Ketchup, mayonnaise, aioli, honey mustard, ranch dressing, or even a spicy sriracha mayo are all great options.
- Burgers and Sandwiches: Serve them alongside your favorite burger or sandwich for a satisfying meal.
- Bowls: Use them as a base for a healthy and flavorful bowl with grilled chicken, black beans, and avocado. Consider them as a side to Smoky Bbq Chicken Sweet Potato Bowl or Bbq Chicken Sweet Potato Bowl for a full meal.
- Snack: Enjoy them as a snack on their own or with a side of guacamole or salsa.
- Main Course Side: Serve them as a side dish with grilled chicken, steak, or fish.
Sweet Potato Fun: Beyond Fries
Now that you’re a sweet potato pro, why stop at fries? Sweet potatoes are incredibly versatile and can be used in a variety of dishes. Consider exploring other sweet potato recipes!
- Try a comforting Sweet Potato Pie for dessert.
- Bake a Sweet Potato Pie as a treat to share with friends and family.
- Whip up a creamy Sweet Potato Scalloped Casserole for a holiday side dish.
- Or enjoy a Southern Maple Sweet Potato Casserole.
Storage and Reheating: Keeping the Crisp Alive
Let’s be honest, these fries are best eaten fresh! But if you have leftovers, here’s how to store and reheat them:
Storing Leftovers:
Store leftover fries in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating for Crispiness:
To reheat and restore some of the crispiness, spread the fries in a single layer on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 5-10 minutes, or until heated through. You can also use an air fryer for even better results. Avoid microwaving them, as they will become soggy.
Final Thoughts: Fry On!
With these tips and tricks, you’re well on your way to making the best Crispy Oven Baked Sweet Potato Fries you’ve ever had! Don’t be discouraged if your first batch isn’t perfect; practice makes perfect. So, grab some sweet potatoes, preheat that oven, and get ready to enjoy a delicious and healthy treat. Happy frying!
Why is soaking the sweet potato fries in water so important?
Soaking the fries in cold water for at least 30 minutes (or up to 2 hours) draws out excess starch. This crucial step helps them crisp up beautifully in the oven.
What is the ideal thickness for cutting the sweet potato fries?
Aim for fries that are about 1/4-inch thick to ensure even cooking and a satisfying crunch. If they’re too thick, they’ll be soft in the middle; too thin, and they’ll burn before they crisp up.
How do I store and reheat leftover sweet potato fries to maintain some crispiness?
Store leftover fries in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, spread the fries in a single layer on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 5-10 minutes, or until heated through. An air fryer works even better. Avoid microwaving, as they will become soggy.
What is the role of cornstarch in achieving crispy sweet potato fries?
Cornstarch helps create a crispy coating on the sweet potato fries when baking in the oven. It is tossed with the fries along with the oil and spices.
Crispy Oven Baked Sweet Potato Fries
Equipment
- Large bowl
- Colander
- Paper towels
- Large mixing bowl
- Measuring spoons
- Measuring cups
- Large baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Oven
Ingredients
- 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into 1/4-inch thick fries
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or avocado oil
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch or tapioca starch
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon salt or to taste
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper or to taste
- Pinch of cayenne pepper optional
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Soak the sweet potato fries in a large bowl of cold water for at least 30 minutes (or up to 2 hours).
- Drain the fries thoroughly and pat them completely dry with paper towels.
- In a large bowl, toss the dried sweet potato fries with olive oil, cornstarch, garlic powder, smoked paprika, onion powder, salt, pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using).
- Make sure the fries are evenly coated.
- Spread the fries in a single layer on a large baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Make sure they’re not overcrowded. If they are, use two baking sheets.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the fries are golden brown and crispy.
- Keep a close eye on them during the last few minutes to prevent burning.
- Serve immediately for the best flavor and crispiness.
