I’ve always been a huge fan of sweet potatoes—they’re naturally sweet, comforting, and versatile enough to be a side dish, snack, or even a quick lunch. Recently, I discovered how air frying sweet potato cubes transforms them into the perfect combination of crispy outside and tender inside. It’s incredible how a few minutes in an air fryer can elevate such a simple ingredient into something so satisfying.
Every time I make these, I enjoy experimenting with seasoning combinations—from classic salt and pepper to smoky paprika or a hint of cinnamon for a sweet-savory twist. The best part is that these sweet potato cubes are not only tasty but also healthy and quick to prepare, making them my go-to snack or side when I want something nutritious without spending hours in the kitchen.
What You Need To Make This Recipe
Sweet Potatoes: These are the star of the dish. Choose firm, medium-sized sweet potatoes without any bruises or soft spots. Their natural sweetness intensifies when air-fried, and they develop a lovely caramelized exterior that makes every bite irresistible.
Olive Oil: A light coating of olive oil helps the sweet potato cubes crisp up evenly in the air fryer while adding a subtle, rich flavor. It’s essential for getting that golden-brown finish without making the cubes greasy.
Salt: Salt enhances the natural sweetness of the potatoes and balances the flavors perfectly. Use fine sea salt for the best results—it distributes more evenly over the cubes.
Black Pepper: Freshly ground black pepper adds a gentle kick and depth of flavor, complementing the sweetness of the potatoes and making the dish more savory and complex.
Optional Spices: Ingredients like smoked paprika, garlic powder, cinnamon, or chili powder can add unique twists to your sweet potato cubes. They’re a fun way to customize the flavor according to your mood or the meal you’re pairing them with.
Ingredients List
- 2 medium sweet potatoes
- 1–2 tablespoons olive oil
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- Optional: ½ teaspoon smoked paprika, ¼ teaspoon garlic powder, or ¼ teaspoon cinnamon
How to Make Air Fryer Sweet Potato Cubes
Step 1: Prepare the Sweet Potatoes
Peel the sweet potatoes and cut them into evenly sized cubes, roughly 1-inch each. Uniform cubes ensure they cook evenly and get that perfect crispy exterior.
Step 2: Season the Cubes
Place the sweet potato cubes in a mixing bowl. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with salt, black pepper, and any optional spices. Toss everything gently until all the cubes are coated evenly.
Step 3: Preheat the Air Fryer
Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 3–5 minutes. Preheating helps the cubes start crisping immediately, giving them a nice texture.
Step 4: Air Fry the Sweet Potato Cubes
Place the seasoned cubes in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Cook for 15–20 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even cooking. The cubes should be golden brown and tender when done.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Once cooked, remove the sweet potato cubes from the air fryer. Serve immediately as a snack, side dish, or even tossed into salads for a warm, flavorful addition.
Tips for Making this Recipe
- Cut sweet potatoes into evenly sized cubes to ensure they cook uniformly.
- Avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket; this allows the cubes to crisp up instead of steaming.
- Shake the basket or toss the cubes halfway through cooking for even browning.
- Experiment with different spices for unique flavor profiles—cinnamon for sweetness, paprika for smokiness, or chili powder for heat.
- If you like extra crispiness, cook for an additional 2–3 minutes, keeping a close eye to prevent burning.
FAQs
Can I use frozen sweet potato cubes?
Yes, but reduce the cooking time slightly and ensure they’re not coated in ice to prevent soggy results.
What oil is best for air frying sweet potatoes?
Olive oil is great for flavor, but avocado or canola oil also works well.
How long do leftover cubes stay good?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer to restore crispiness.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
Absolutely! The recipe is naturally vegan and gluten-free.
Can I add herbs?
Yes, fresh or dried herbs like rosemary, thyme, or parsley add a lovely touch just before serving.