There’s something magical about sweet potatoes, don’t you think? They’re naturally sweet, packed with nutrients, and pair beautifully with a variety of toppings and seasonings. When I discovered how easy it is to bake sweet potatoes in an air fryer, it quickly became one of my favorite methods. The crispy skin and perfectly tender insides are a combination I just can’t resist.
Whether you’re looking for a quick side dish or a base for a hearty, healthy meal, air fryer baked sweet potatoes are a game-changer. With minimal prep and a fraction of the cooking time compared to a traditional oven, you’ll have deliciously baked sweet potatoes in no time.
What You Need To Make This Recipe
Sweet Potatoes: Choose medium-sized sweet potatoes with smooth skin and no blemishes. These cook evenly and provide the best texture.
Olive Oil: A light coating of olive oil helps the skin crisp up beautifully while keeping the flesh moist.
Salt: A sprinkle of salt enhances the natural sweetness of the potatoes and brings out their flavor.
Optional Toppings: Butter, sour cream, cinnamon, brown sugar, or even savory options like chives and bacon can elevate your sweet potatoes.
Ingredients List
- 2 medium-sized sweet potatoes
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- ½ teaspoon salt
- Optional toppings of your choice
How to Make Air Fryer Baked Sweet Potatoes
Step 1: Prepare the Sweet Potatoes
Wash the sweet potatoes thoroughly under running water to remove any dirt. Pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel.
Step 2: Season the Potatoes
Rub each sweet potato with olive oil, ensuring the entire surface is coated. Sprinkle them with salt to taste.
Step 3: Preheat the Air Fryer
Set your air fryer to 390°F (200°C) and let it preheat for about 3 minutes. This ensures even cooking.
Step 4: Cook the Sweet Potatoes
Place the seasoned sweet potatoes in the air fryer basket, making sure they don’t overlap. Cook for 35-40 minutes, turning them halfway through for even cooking. The potatoes are done when a fork easily pierces through the center.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Carefully remove the sweet potatoes from the air fryer. Let them cool for a few minutes before slicing them open. Add your favorite toppings and serve warm.
Tips for Making This Recipe
- Choose Uniform Sizes: Selecting sweet potatoes of similar size ensures they cook evenly in the air fryer.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Basket: Allowing space between the potatoes helps air circulate for a perfectly baked result.
- Adjust Cooking Time: Larger sweet potatoes may require an additional 5-10 minutes of cooking time. Check doneness with a fork.
- Experiment with Toppings: Try both sweet and savory toppings to find your favorite flavor combinations.
FAQs
Q: Can I bake multiple sweet potatoes at once? A: Yes, but make sure not to overcrowd the air fryer basket. If necessary, cook in batches.
Q: Do I need to pierce the sweet potatoes before cooking? A: Unlike the oven, piercing isn’t strictly necessary for air frying, but you can if you prefer.
Q: Can I store leftover sweet potatoes? A: Absolutely! Store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in the air fryer for a few minutes to regain their crispiness.
Q: Can I use different oils? A: Yes, avocado oil or coconut oil work well as alternatives to olive oil.
Air fryer baked sweet potatoes are a simple yet versatile dish that’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Give it a try and enjoy the perfect blend of crispy skin and tender, flavorful insides!