I’ve always loved sweet potatoes—not just for their natural sweetness, but for how versatile they are in the kitchen. When I discovered the air fryer, my appreciation for these root vegetables grew even more. The combination of crispiness on the outside and tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture on the inside makes air fryer sweet potato wedges my go-to snack or side dish. Every bite feels like comfort food with a healthy twist.
What excites me most about this recipe is how easy it is to prepare. A few simple ingredients, minimal oil, and the magic of the air fryer transform ordinary sweet potatoes into golden, flavorful wedges. Whether I’m pairing them with a juicy burger, dipping them in aioli, or enjoying them on their own, they never fail to impress. The aroma while they cook is irresistible and fills the kitchen with a warm, inviting scent.
What You Need To Make This Recipe
Sweet Potatoes: These are the star of the dish. Look for firm, bright-orange sweet potatoes without any soft spots or blemishes. They provide natural sweetness and a hearty texture that becomes tender on the inside when air-fried, while their skins crisp up beautifully.
Olive Oil: A small drizzle of olive oil helps the wedges achieve a golden, crispy exterior. It also enhances the natural flavor of the sweet potatoes and makes sure your seasoning sticks perfectly.
Salt: Simple, but essential. Salt brings out the sweetness of the potatoes and balances the flavors perfectly. Sea salt or kosher salt works best for even seasoning.
Black Pepper: Freshly ground black pepper adds a mild kick and depth to the flavor profile, complementing the natural sweetness of the potatoes.
Paprika (Optional): For a smoky, slightly spicy touch, paprika is a great addition. It adds color and a subtle warmth to the wedges, making them visually appealing and flavorful.
Garlic Powder (Optional): A sprinkle of garlic powder brings an aromatic richness that pairs perfectly with the sweet potato’s natural flavors.
Ingredients List
- 2 large sweet potatoes
- 1–2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon paprika (optional)
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
How to Make Air Fryer Sweet Potato Wedges
Step 1: Prepare the Sweet Potatoes
Wash and scrub the sweet potatoes thoroughly. Cut them into wedges, aiming for even sizes so they cook uniformly. Leaving the skin on adds extra texture and nutrients.
Step 2: Season the Wedges
In a large bowl, toss the sweet potato wedges with olive oil, salt, black pepper, and any optional seasonings like paprika or garlic powder. Make sure each wedge is coated evenly for maximum flavor and crispiness.
Step 3: Preheat the Air Fryer
Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 3–5 minutes. Preheating ensures that the wedges start cooking immediately and develop a crispy crust.
Step 4: Cook the Wedges
Arrange the seasoned wedges in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Cook for 15–20 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even cooking. The wedges should be golden and crisp on the outside, tender inside.
Step 5: Serve
Remove the wedges carefully from the air fryer. Serve hot with your favorite dip or as a side to your main dish. Enjoy the perfect balance of sweet, savory, and crispy goodness.
Tips for Making this Recipe
- Cut wedges evenly to ensure uniform cooking.
- Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket; cook in batches if needed.
- Use a light coating of oil; too much can make the wedges soggy.
- Shake the basket halfway to prevent sticking and promote even browning.
- Experiment with spices like chili powder, cumin, or cinnamon for different flavor twists.
- Serve immediately for the crispiest texture.
FAQs
Can I use a regular oven instead of an air fryer?
Yes, bake at 425°F (220°C) for 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Do I need to peel the sweet potatoes?
No, leaving the skin on adds extra nutrients and helps the wedges hold their shape.
Can I make these wedges ahead of time?
They are best served fresh, but you can store leftovers in the fridge and reheat in the air fryer for a few minutes to regain crispiness.
What can I serve with sweet potato wedges?
They pair wonderfully with burgers, grilled chicken, or a tangy dip like garlic aioli or spicy ketchup.
Are air fryer sweet potato wedges healthy?
Yes, they are lower in oil compared to deep-fried versions and retain most of their nutrients, making them a wholesome snack or side.