I’ve always been a fan of comfort food that doesn’t require hours in the kitchen. And when it comes to simple pleasures, few things top a perfectly baked sweet potato. Once I discovered how fast and easy they are in the air fryer, it completely changed my weeknight dinner routine. You get those crispy, caramelized skins and fluffy insides — without even turning on the oven. It’s honestly one of those “set it and forget it” recipes that works every time, no matter how hectic the day has been.
What I love most is how versatile sweet potatoes are. I’ll dress them up with a dollop of Greek yogurt and chives for a light meal, or load them with beans and avocado for something more filling. They’re naturally sweet, nutritious, and just so satisfying. If you haven’t tried baking sweet potatoes in your air fryer yet, trust me — it’s a total game-changer.
What You Need To Make This Recipe
Sweet Potatoes: Look for medium-sized sweet potatoes that are similar in size so they cook evenly. I prefer ones with smooth skin and no soft spots — that’s a sign they’re fresh and starchy, perfect for baking.
Olive Oil: Just a light brush of olive oil helps the skins crisp up beautifully in the air fryer. You don’t need much, but it makes a big difference in texture and taste.
Kosher Salt: A sprinkle of kosher salt enhances the sweet, earthy flavor of the potatoes and gives that irresistible salty contrast to the caramelized skin.
Ingredients List
- 2 medium sweet potatoes
- 1 teaspoon olive oil
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
How to Make Air Fryer Baked Sweet Potatoes
Step 1: Wash and Dry the Potatoes
Scrub the sweet potatoes under running water to remove any dirt. Pat them completely dry with a clean kitchen towel — moisture can prevent the skin from crisping properly.
Step 2: Prick and Oil
Use a fork to prick each potato 4–5 times all around. This helps steam escape while they cook. Rub them lightly with olive oil and sprinkle evenly with kosher salt.
Step 3: Preheat and Air Fry
Preheat your air fryer to 390°F (200°C) for about 3 minutes. Place the potatoes in the basket, making sure they’re not touching, and air fry for 35–40 minutes. Flip them halfway through to ensure even cooking.
Step 4: Check for Doneness
They’re ready when you can easily pierce them with a fork and the skin feels crisp. If they’re still firm in the center, give them another 5 minutes. Larger potatoes may take closer to 45 minutes.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Let the sweet potatoes cool for a couple of minutes, then slice open and fluff with a fork. Top them however you like — butter, cinnamon, Greek yogurt, or even chili!
Tips for Making this Recipe
- Choose similar-sized sweet potatoes to ensure they cook at the same rate.
- Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket. Air needs to circulate fully to crisp the skins.
- Preheating the air fryer gives you a head start on that crispy texture.
- Flip halfway through to cook them evenly and avoid undercooked spots.
- Leftovers? Store in the fridge and reheat in the air fryer for 5 minutes to revive that just-baked magic.
FAQs
Can I cook more than two sweet potatoes at once?
Yes, but only if your air fryer is large enough to allow space between them. Crowding will steam them instead of crisping.
Do I need to wrap the potatoes in foil?
Nope! In fact, skip the foil. It traps moisture and prevents the skin from getting crispy.
How do I know when they’re done?
They should be fork-tender all the way through. The skin will feel crisp, and the inside should be soft and fluffy.
Can I cook them ahead of time?
Absolutely. Store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in the air fryer or microwave before serving.
What toppings go well with baked sweet potatoes?
Try sour cream and scallions, black beans and salsa, almond butter and cinnamon, or just a touch of butter and sea salt. They’re a blank canvas!