If you’re looking for a healthier alternative to traditional fries, air fryer sweet potato fries are the answer. Crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, they’re a perfect snack or side dish to accompany your meals. Not only are they delicious, but they are also packed with nutrients, making them a smart choice for anyone looking to add more vitamins and fiber to their diet. Plus, the air fryer makes them easy to prepare, cutting down on cooking time and the need for excess oil, so you can enjoy guilt-free fries in just minutes.
Sweet potatoes are naturally sweet and savory, and when cooked in the air fryer, they develop a perfect crispy texture. This recipe is so simple, yet the end result is so satisfying. Whether you’re serving them as a snack, a side, or pairing them with your favorite dipping sauce, air fryer sweet potato fries are sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
What You Need to Make This Recipe
Sweet Potatoes: Sweet potatoes are the star of this dish. Their natural sweetness contrasts beautifully with the savory seasoning, creating a perfect balance of flavors. They’re high in vitamins A and C, making them a nutritious choice for anyone looking to eat healthily.
Olive Oil: A little bit of olive oil helps to create that crispy texture we all love. It also helps the seasonings stick to the fries while adding a bit of richness without overwhelming the natural sweetness of the potatoes.
Paprika: Paprika adds a mild, smoky flavor that pairs perfectly with the sweetness of the potatoes. It’s also what gives the fries their beautiful color, making them look as good as they taste.
Garlic Powder: A little garlic powder enhances the overall flavor of the fries, giving them an aromatic kick without being overpowering. It’s one of those seasonings that just takes the dish to the next level.
Salt: A pinch of salt is essential to balance out the sweetness of the sweet potatoes. It enhances all the flavors and gives the fries that satisfying savory finish.
Black Pepper: Freshly ground black pepper adds just the right amount of heat and depth to the fries. It’s a classic seasoning that pairs well with virtually any dish, and it’s no different here.
Optional: You can also sprinkle on some cinnamon for a little extra sweetness or chili powder for a spicy kick, depending on your personal preferences.
Ingredients List
- 2 medium sweet potatoes
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper (freshly ground)
- Optional: 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon or chili powder
How to Make Air Fryer Sweet Potato Fries
Step 1: Prepare the Sweet Potatoes
Peel the sweet potatoes and cut them into even matchsticks, about 1/4 inch thick. This will ensure they cook evenly and achieve that perfect crispy texture. If you prefer, you can leave the skin on for extra texture and nutrients.
Step 2: Season the Fries
Place the sweet potato matchsticks in a large bowl. Drizzle with olive oil and toss to coat evenly. Then, sprinkle on the paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Toss again until the sweet potatoes are fully coated in the seasoning mix.
Step 3: Preheat the Air Fryer
Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes. This will ensure the fries cook quickly and evenly, giving them that crispy finish.
Step 4: Air Fry the Fries
Arrange the seasoned sweet potato fries in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Depending on the size of your air fryer, you may need to do this in batches to avoid overcrowding. Cook the fries at 400°F for 15-20 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through the cooking time for even crispiness.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Once the fries are golden brown and crispy, remove them from the air fryer. Serve immediately while hot with your favorite dipping sauce, or enjoy them as they are!
Tips for Making This Recipe
- Cut Fries Evenly: Try to cut your fries as evenly as possible so they cook uniformly. If they’re all the same size, they’ll crisp up better and cook at the same rate.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Basket: Overcrowding the air fryer basket can lead to soggy fries. If necessary, cook the fries in batches for the best results.
- Adjust the Seasonings: Feel free to adjust the seasoning to your taste. If you like your fries spicier, add some cayenne pepper or chili powder.
- For Extra Crispy Fries: If you prefer even crispier fries, lightly spray them with cooking spray before air frying, or cook them a little longer, keeping an eye on them to prevent burning.
- Serving Suggestions: These fries pair wonderfully with a tangy dipping sauce like ketchup, aioli, or even a yogurt-based dip.
FAQs
Can I use other oils for this recipe?
Yes, you can use vegetable oil, avocado oil, or even coconut oil as alternatives to olive oil. However, olive oil adds the best flavor and texture for these fries.
Do I need to preheat the air fryer?
Preheating the air fryer helps the fries cook evenly and get crispy, so it’s highly recommended.
Can I make these fries ahead of time?
Sweet potato fries are best served fresh, but you can store leftovers in an airtight container for 1-2 days. To reheat, pop them back in the air fryer for a few minutes to restore their crispiness.
How do I prevent my fries from being soggy?
Make sure to cut the fries evenly, don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket, and toss the fries in oil and seasoning before cooking.