These crispy air fryer sweet potato fries are a treat! They’re easy to make and have a hint of sweetness that makes them hard to resist. Plus, they’re healthier than regular fries!
I love how they turn out perfectly crispy without all the oil. Pair them with your favorite dip, and you’ll have a snack that tastes great and feels good, too. Yum! 🍠
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Sweet Potatoes: These are the star of the dish! Opt for large, firm sweet potatoes. If you can’t find them, butternut squash makes a great substitute.
Olive Oil: I love using olive oil for its flavor, but avocado oil is another fantastic option. It’s even higher in smoke point, which is great for air frying.
Spices: Garlic powder and smoked paprika are tasty additions. You could swap smoked paprika for regular paprika or cayenne pepper if you like a bit of heat.
Salt: Adjust the amount according to your taste. If you’re watching sodium intake, you can use a low-sodium option or just skip it altogether.
How Can You Ensure Your Fries Stay Crispy?
Keeping your sweet potato fries crispy is all about the preparation and cooking technique. Here are some tips to help you achieve that perfect crunch:
- Cut the fries evenly to ensure uniform cooking. Thin fries tend to get crispier!
- Don’t skip the preheating step for your air fryer. This helps start the cooking process right away.
- Make sure to toss the fries in oil and spices well. The oil helps them crisp up and prevents sticking.
- Air fry in small batches; overcrowding can lead to steaming instead of crisping.
- Shake the basket halfway through cooking to help cook all sides evenly.
By following these tips, you’ll be on your way to enjoy deliciously crispy sweet potato fries every time!
Air Fryer Sweet Potato Fries
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 large sweet potatoes, washed and cut into fries
- 1-2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Optional dipping sauce (e.g., ketchup, spicy mayo)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 5 minutes to prepare and another 12-15 minutes to cook. So, you’re looking at around 20 minutes in total to have delicious sweet potato fries ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Air Fryer:
Start by preheating your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Give it about 5 minutes to get nice and hot. This helps your fries crisp up beautifully!
2. Prepare the Sweet Potatoes:
Wash your sweet potatoes thoroughly. After that, slice them into evenly sized fries. I like to keep the skin on for added texture and nutrients, but you can peel them if you prefer.
3. Season the Fries:
In a large bowl, place your cut sweet potato fries. Add 1-2 tablespoons of olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Toss everything together until the fries are evenly coated with the oil and spices.
4. Arrange for Cooking:
Take your seasoned fries and lay them out in a single layer in the air fryer basket. If you have a lot of fries, it’s best to cook them in batches. Overcrowding the basket can prevent them from getting crispy.
5. Air Fry the Fries:
Cook the fries in the air fryer at 400°F (200°C) for about 12-15 minutes. Be sure to shake the basket halfway through cooking to ensure they brown evenly.
6. Check for Doneness:
Once the fries are golden and crispy on the edges, carefully remove them from the air fryer. They should look delicious and inviting!
7. Garnish and Serve:
Transfer the sweet potato fries to a plate lined with parchment paper or a serving bowl. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color. Don’t forget to add your favorite dipping sauce on the side for extra flavor!
Enjoy your crispy, tender, and flavorful Air Fryer Sweet Potato Fries! They make the perfect snack or side dish. Happy cooking!
Can I Use Other Types of Potatoes?
Absolutely! While sweet potatoes are delicious, you can use regular russet or Yukon gold potatoes as well. Just adjust the cooking time as they might cook slightly faster or slower than sweet potatoes.
What If I Don’t Have Smoked Paprika?
No worries! If you don’t have smoked paprika, regular paprika works just fine. Alternatively, you can add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a bit of heat instead.
Can I Prep the Fries Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can cut the sweet potatoes and toss them with the olive oil and seasonings. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a day before air frying them.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
If you have leftovers, place them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop them back in the air fryer for a few minutes to restore their crispiness!