Sweet potato wedges are a simple yet delicious side dish that pairs perfectly with almost any main course. Whether you’re making a family dinner or preparing snacks for a gathering, these crispy, tender wedges will always be a crowd-pleaser. The air fryer makes cooking them quicker, with a perfect crisp on the outside and softness on the inside.
What I love most about this recipe is how versatile it is. You can season these wedges however you like, from classic salt and pepper to more adventurous spices like paprika, garlic powder, or chili flakes. Not only do they taste amazing, but they’re also healthier than deep-fried versions, making them a guilt-free treat for any occasion.
What You Need To Make This Recipe
Sweet Potatoes: These are the star of the dish. Their natural sweetness, combined with the crispy edges created in the air fryer, makes for a perfect balance of flavor. Choose medium to large sweet potatoes for best results.
Olive Oil: A bit of olive oil helps achieve that golden, crispy texture on the outside of the wedges. It also ensures the seasoning sticks to the sweet potatoes.
Salt: A simple, essential ingredient to bring out the natural sweetness of the potatoes. The salt enhances the flavor and balances the sweetness of the sweet potatoes.
Black Pepper: Freshly ground black pepper adds a mild heat and complexity to the wedges, complementing the natural sweetness of the potatoes.
Paprika: A great spice to add depth and a subtle smokiness to the wedges. It gives them a lovely color and flavor boost.
Garlic Powder: For a rich, savory flavor, garlic powder is a must. It complements the sweetness of the potatoes perfectly.
Chili Flakes: Optional, but if you like a bit of heat, chili flakes will give your sweet potato wedges an extra kick.
Ingredients List
- 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into wedges
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes (optional)
How to Make Air Fryer Sweet Potato Wedges
Step 1: Prepare the Sweet Potatoes
Start by peeling the sweet potatoes, then cut them into wedges. Try to keep the wedges even in size so they cook evenly. You can either slice them thin or thicker, depending on your preferred texture, but remember that thinner wedges cook faster.
Step 2: Season the Wedges
In a large bowl, toss the sweet potato wedges with olive oil, ensuring they’re evenly coated. Then, sprinkle on the salt, black pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and chili flakes (if using). Toss everything together until all the wedges are nicely seasoned.
Step 3: Preheat the Air Fryer
Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes. This ensures your wedges will start cooking right away and get that crispy texture.
Step 4: Air Fry the Wedges
Place the seasoned wedges into the air fryer basket in a single layer. Depending on the size of your air fryer, you may need to cook in batches. Air fry at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through for even cooking. The wedges should be golden brown and crispy on the outside, with a tender interior.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Once the sweet potato wedges are crispy and golden, remove them from the air fryer and serve immediately. They make a perfect side dish or snack, especially when paired with your favorite dipping sauce.
Tips for Making this Recipe
- Even Size Wedges: For even cooking, try to cut your sweet potatoes into uniform wedges. This will ensure they cook at the same rate and become equally crispy.
- Don’t Overcrowd: Overcrowding the air fryer basket will prevent the wedges from crisping up properly. If needed, cook the wedges in batches.
- Customize Your Seasoning: Feel free to adjust the seasoning to your taste. Try adding onion powder, thyme, or rosemary for different flavor profiles.
- Soak the Wedges: If you have time, soak the cut sweet potato wedges in water for about 30 minutes before cooking. This helps remove excess starch, resulting in crispier wedges.
- Serve with Dips: These wedges are perfect for dipping. Try pairing them with a creamy ranch, spicy ketchup, or a yogurt-based dip for extra flavor.
FAQs
Can I make these wedges without oil? Yes, you can omit the oil for a lighter version of the wedges. However, using a small amount of oil helps achieve that golden, crispy exterior.
How do I store leftovers? Store leftover sweet potato wedges in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, place them back in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes to restore their crispiness.
Can I use other seasonings? Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different seasonings like curry powder, cinnamon, or even a sweet touch with a drizzle of honey after cooking.
What can I serve with these sweet potato wedges? These wedges go wonderfully with burgers, grilled chicken, steak, or even as a snack with your favorite dip. They’re versatile and can complement a wide range of dishes.