Crispy Oven Baked Sweet Potato Fries

These Crispy Oven Baked Sweet Potato Fries are a delightful snack or side dish that everyone will enjoy. With their irresistible crunch and sweet flavor, they make a perfect addition to any meal or gathering. Plus, they’re easy to prepare and healthier than traditional fried options. In just 40 minutes, you can indulge in these golden bites of goodness!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Healthy Alternative: These fries are baked, not fried, making them a nutritious choice without sacrificing taste.
• Simple Ingredients: With just a handful of pantry staples, you can whip up a batch in no time.
• Versatile Flavor: Customize with your favorite spices or dips to suit any palate.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether as a snack, side dish, or party treat, these fries fit the bill perfectly.
• Quick Preparation: Ready in about 40 minutes, they are ideal for busy weeknights.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience seamless and enjoyable, having the right tools is essential.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking sheet
• Knife
• Cutting board
• Mixing bowl
• Paper towels

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking sheet: A hot baking sheet helps achieve that desired crispy texture by promoting even baking.
• Knife: A sharp knife allows for precise cutting of the sweet potatoes into uniform fries for even cooking.

Ingredients

To create these Crispy Oven Baked Sweet Potato Fries, gather the following ingredients:

For the Sweet Potato Fries:

• 2 medium sweet potatoes (peeled (optional) and cut into fries)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika (smoked paprika is optional for extra flavor)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch (for extra crispiness)

How to Make Crispy Oven Baked Sweet Potato Fries

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Place a baking sheet inside the oven while it heats to ensure it gets nice and hot.

Step 2: Prepare the Sweet Potatoes

Peel the sweet potatoes if desired, then cut them into 1/4 inch thick fries. Try to keep them uniform in size to cook evenly.

Step 3: Soak the Fries

Soak the cut sweet potato fries in cold water for 30 minutes. This helps remove excess starch, which is key for achieving crispy results.

Step 4: Season the Fries

After soaking, drain and pat the fries dry using paper towels to remove moisture. In a large bowl, toss the fries with olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. If you’re adding cornstarch for extra crispiness, sprinkle it in now and mix well.

Step 5: Bake the Fries

Carefully take out the hot baking sheet from the oven. Spread the seasoned fries in a single layer on it without overcrowding. Bake for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through until they are golden brown and crispy.

Step 6: Check for Crispiness

Once baked to perfection, remove the fries from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your deliciously crispy oven-baked sweet potato fries!

How to Serve Crispy Oven Baked Sweet Potato Fries

Crispy Oven Baked Sweet Potato Fries are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in many ways. Whether as a side dish or a snack, these fries pair wonderfully with various dips and toppings, making them versatile for any meal.

With Dipping Sauces

• Ketchup – A classic choice that complements the sweetness of the fries.
• Garlic Aioli – Creamy and flavorful, this sauce adds a rich garlic taste.
• Spicy Mayo – Mix mayonnaise with sriracha for a tangy kick.
• Ranch Dressing – Cool and creamy, ranch makes for a great dipping option.

As a Side to Main Dishes

• Grilled Chicken – The savory flavors of grilled chicken pair well with the sweet fries.
• Turkey Burgers – Swap traditional fries for sweet potato fries for a healthier take.
• Vegetable Tacos – These fries add crunch to your favorite veggie tacos.

Topped with Additional Ingredients

• Chili Cheese Fries – Top with plant-based chili and cheese for a hearty option.
• Avocado Slices – Fresh avocado adds creaminess and healthy fats to your fries.

How to Perfect Crispy Oven Baked Sweet Potato Fries

Achieving the perfect batch of crispy sweet potato fries is all about technique. Follow these tips to ensure your fries come out crispy every time.

• Soak the Fries – Soaking in cold water removes excess starch, which helps achieve crispiness.
• Use Cornstarch – Tossing the fries with cornstarch enhances their texture and makes them crunchier.
• Preheat Your Baking Sheet – A hot baking sheet helps start the frying process right away, leading to crispier results.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan – Spacing out the fries allows hot air to circulate, ensuring they cook evenly.
• Flip Halfway Through Cooking – Turning the fries halfway ensures they brown on both sides.

Best Side Dishes for Crispy Oven Baked Sweet Potato Fries

Pairing your Crispy Oven Baked Sweet Potato Fries with other dishes can elevate your meal. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Grilled Vegetables – A colorful assortment of grilled veggies adds nutrition and flavor.
2. Quinoa Salad – This protein-packed salad offers freshness and complements the sweet flavors.
3. Stuffed Peppers – Hearty stuffed peppers make for a filling meal alongside sweet potato fries.
4. Black Bean Burger – A savory black bean burger provides a satisfying vegetarian option.
5. Roasted Chickpeas – Crunchy roasted chickpeas add another layer of texture to your plate.
6. Cauliflower Wings – These spicy wings offer an exciting contrast to the sweetness of the fries.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

There are a few common pitfalls when making Crispy Oven Baked Sweet Potato Fries. Here’s how to steer clear of them.

• Skipping the Soaking Step: Not soaking the sweet potato fries can lead to soggy results. Soak them in cold water for 30 minutes to remove excess starch for better crispiness.
• Overcrowding the Baking Sheet: Placing too many fries on the sheet can cause steaming instead of baking. Spread them in a single layer with space between each fry for optimal cooking.
• Not Preheating the Oven: Failing to preheat your oven can result in uneven cooking. Always preheat to 425°F (220°C) before adding the fries to ensure they cook properly.
• Ignoring Size Uniformity: Cutting fries into uneven sizes leads to inconsistent cooking times. Try to cut them all about 1/4 inch thick for even baking.
• Forgetting to Pat Dry: If you skip drying the soaked fries, moisture will prevent crispiness. Use a paper towel to pat them dry thoroughly before seasoning.
• Not Flipping Halfway Through: Neglecting to flip the fries during baking can cause one side to be less crispy. Turn them halfway through cooking for even browning.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover sweet potato fries in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Ensure they are completely cooled before sealing the container to avoid moisture buildup.

Freezing Crispy Oven Baked Sweet Potato Fries

• For longer storage, freeze baked fries in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring them to a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be stored for up to 2 months in the freezer.

Reheating Crispy Oven Baked Sweet Potato Fries

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Spread the fries on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes until crispy again.
• Microwave: Place fries on a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel. Heat in bursts of 30 seconds but keep in mind they may not be as crispy.
• Stovetop: Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat and add a little oil. Sauté the fries for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally until crispy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions regarding Crispy Oven Baked Sweet Potato Fries.

How do I make my Crispy Oven Baked Sweet Potato Fries spicier?

You can add cayenne pepper or chili powder when seasoning your fries for an extra kick!

Can I use other types of potatoes instead?

Yes, you can use regular potatoes or even other root vegetables like carrots or parsnips for different flavors.

What should I serve with Crispy Oven Baked Sweet Potato Fries?

These fries pair well with dips like ketchup, aioli, or guacamole, making them great as appetizers or side dishes.

How do I ensure my Crispy Oven Baked Sweet Potato Fries are extra crispy?

Make sure to soak and dry your sweet potatoes thoroughly, and consider using cornstarch as indicated in the recipe for added crunch.

Final Thoughts

Crispy Oven Baked Sweet Potato Fries are not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize these fries with different spices or dipping sauces, making them perfect as a side dish or snack. Give this recipe a try and enjoy healthy, homemade goodness!