Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These air fryer sweet potato fries are a healthier alternative to traditional deep-fried versions, yet just as satisfying. They cook quickly, require minimal oil, and deliver that irresistible balance of crisp exterior and soft interior. They’re versatile enough to serve with everything from burgers to grilled chicken, and they’re equally perfect as a snack or appetizer. Plus, you can easily customize the seasonings to match your mood.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into ¼-inch sticks
- 1 tbsp olive oil (or avocado oil)
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp salt (fine sea salt preferred)
- ¼ tsp black pepper
Directions
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Preheat the air fryer to 380°F (195°C).
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Peel and cut sweet potatoes into uniform ¼-inch sticks and place them in a large bowl.
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Drizzle with olive oil and toss to coat evenly.
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Sprinkle with garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Toss again until well coated.
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Arrange fries in a single layer in the air fryer basket, avoiding overcrowding. Cook in batches if necessary.
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Air fry for 12–15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through. Add 1–2 minutes if needed for extra crispiness.
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Serve immediately with your favorite dip or a sprinkle of flaky sea salt.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes about 4 servings. Prep time is approximately 10 minutes, and cooking time is 12–15 minutes, totaling around 25 minutes from start to finish.
Variations
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Add a dash of cayenne pepper or chili powder for a spicy kick.
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Swap garlic powder for onion powder for a slightly different flavor.
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Toss fries with fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme after air frying.
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Sprinkle with cinnamon and sugar for a sweet version.
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Use avocado oil for a milder, lighter finish.
Storage/Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, air fry at 350°F (175°C) for 3–5 minutes until hot and crisp again. Avoid microwaving, as it makes the fries soggy.
FAQs
How do I make sweet potato fries crispier in the air fryer?
Cut them into thin, even sticks, avoid overcrowding the basket, and shake halfway through cooking.
Can I make these fries without oil?
Yes, but they may not crisp as well. A light coating of oil helps with texture.
Do I need to soak sweet potatoes in water first?
Unlike regular fries, sweet potatoes don’t require soaking. Just pat them dry after cutting.
Can I use frozen sweet potato fries in the air fryer?
Yes, just adjust the cooking time according to package instructions.
What dipping sauces go best with sweet potato fries?
Ketchup, garlic aioli, sriracha mayo, honey mustard, and chipotle lime crema are all great options.
How do I prevent the fries from sticking to the basket?
Lightly spray the basket with nonstick spray before adding the fries.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, but cook in batches to avoid overcrowding and ensure crispiness.
Are air fryer sweet potato fries healthier than deep-fried?
Yes, they use significantly less oil while still delivering a crispy texture.
Can I use white sweet potatoes instead of orange?
Absolutely, they’ll have a slightly different flavor but work just as well.
What main dishes pair well with these fries?
They’re great with burgers, grilled chicken, fish, shrimp, or even as a snack platter with dips.
Conclusion
Air fryer sweet potato fries are a quick, healthy, and flavorful side that fits seamlessly into weeknight dinners or casual gatherings. With their crisp edges, fluffy centers, and versatile seasonings, they’re sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Whether you serve them as a snack, appetizer, or side, these fries prove that guilt-free can still mean delicious.
Print
Air Fryer Sweet Potato Fries (Crispy, Golden & Guilt-Free)
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Air Fryer
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegan
Description
Golden and crispy air fryer sweet potato fries with tender centers, seasoned with garlic, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper for a light and wholesome snack or side dish.
Ingredients
2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into ¼-inch sticks
1 tbsp olive oil (or avocado oil)
½ tsp garlic powder
½ tsp smoked paprika
½ tsp salt (fine sea salt preferred)
¼ tsp black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat the air fryer to 380°F (195°C).
- Peel and cut sweet potatoes into uniform ¼-inch sticks and place them in a large bowl.
- Drizzle with olive oil and toss to coat evenly.
- Sprinkle with garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Toss again until well coated.
- Arrange fries in a single layer in the air fryer basket, avoiding overcrowding. Cook in batches if necessary.
- Air fry for 12–15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through. Add 1–2 minutes if needed for extra crispiness.
- Serve immediately with your favorite dip or a sprinkle of flaky sea salt.
Notes
For extra crispiness, cut fries into thin, even sticks and avoid overcrowding the basket.
Add cayenne or chili powder for a spicy kick.
Toss fries with fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme after air frying.
Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; reheat in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 3–5 minutes.
Avoid microwaving as it makes fries soggy.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving (about ¼ of recipe)
- Calories: 130
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 3.5g
- Saturated Fat: 0.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
