I’ve always loved the idea of turning something simple, like a sweet potato, into a snack that feels indulgent yet wholesome. Over the years, I’ve experimented with baking, frying, and seasoning sweet potatoes in countless ways, but nothing beats the combination of crispiness on the outside, softness on the inside, and a hint of smoky paprika with garlic. Every bite of these fries feels like comfort food with a gourmet twist, perfect for an afternoon treat or a side to elevate any meal.
Cooking, for me, is all about layers of flavor, and sweet potato fries are no exception. A touch of olive oil helps them crisp up beautifully, while paprika and garlic infuse a warm, aromatic depth that makes them irresistible. I love pairing them with a homemade dipping sauce, but honestly, they’re so flavorful on their own that I often find myself sneaking bites straight from the tray! If you’re ready to make your kitchen smell amazing and enjoy fries that balance sweet, savory, and spicy notes, this recipe is your next go-to.
What You Need To Make This Recipe
Sweet Potatoes: These are the star of the show. Choose firm, medium-sized sweet potatoes with smooth skin for even cooking. They bring a natural sweetness that contrasts beautifully with smoky spices and crispy edges.
Olive Oil: Olive oil is essential for helping the fries crisp up in the oven. It also adds a subtle richness that complements the sweet potatoes without overpowering them.
Garlic Powder: Garlic powder gives the fries a savory kick that melds perfectly with the natural sweetness. It’s easier to distribute evenly than fresh garlic, ensuring every fry is flavorful.
Paprika: Paprika adds a smoky depth and vibrant color. You can use sweet or smoked paprika depending on how intense you want the smoky flavor to be.
Salt: A pinch of salt enhances all the other flavors, balancing the sweetness of the potato and the smokiness of the paprika.
Black Pepper: Freshly ground black pepper brings a mild heat and aromatic touch that rounds out the flavor profile of the fries.
Ingredients List
- 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into fries
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
How to Make Crispy Sweet Potato Fries with Garlic and Paprika
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). A hot oven ensures that the fries become crispy on the outside while staying soft inside. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Prepare the Sweet Potatoes
Peel the sweet potatoes and cut them into evenly sized fries, about ¼ to ½ inch thick. Even sizing ensures uniform cooking and consistent crispiness.
Step 3: Season the Fries
Place the cut fries in a large bowl. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Toss well to coat each fry evenly with the oil and spices.
Step 4: Arrange on Baking Sheet
Spread the fries in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Avoid overcrowding, as this can cause the fries to steam instead of crisping up.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Bake for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through. The fries should be golden and slightly charred on the edges. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Remove the fries from the oven and let them cool for a couple of minutes. Serve immediately, optionally with your favorite dipping sauce, and enjoy the crispy, garlicky goodness!
Tips for Making this Recipe
- For extra crispiness, soak the cut sweet potatoes in cold water for 30 minutes before baking, then pat them completely dry.
- Use parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
- Avoid overcrowding the pan; fries need space to crisp.
- Experiment with smoked paprika for a deeper, barbecue-like flavor.
- Serve immediately for the best texture; they can lose crispiness if left to sit too long.
FAQs
Can I make these fries in an air fryer?
Yes! Cook at 400°F (200°C) for about 15-20 minutes, shaking halfway through for even cooking.
Can I use fresh garlic instead of garlic powder?
You can, but finely mince it and toss it with the fries at the beginning. Be aware that fresh garlic can burn faster, so you might want to add it halfway through baking.
How do I make these fries extra crispy?
Soak the sweet potatoes in cold water before baking and ensure the fries are completely dry. Also, spreading them in a single layer helps them crisp evenly.
Can I use other spices?
Absolutely! Try cumin, chili powder, or smoked paprika for a different flavor twist.
How long can I store leftover fries?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven for best results, as microwaving can make them soggy.