These extra crispy sweet potato fries are a tasty treat! Coated with a sprinkle of salt and some spices, they turn out crunchy outside and soft inside—yum!
Making these fries is super fun! I love dipping them in ketchup, but you can get creative with the sauces. Just remember, one fry leads to another—be careful! 😂
The best part? They bake up nicely in the oven, so it’s a healthier option. I pop them in while I prepare the rest of dinner, and they always steal the spotlight!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Sweet Potatoes: These are the heart of the recipe! I recommend choosing firm, unblemished sweet potatoes for the best flavor and texture. If you want to mix it up, you can use regular potatoes or even butternut squash for a unique twist!
Cornstarch: This is key for achieving that extra crispiness while baking. If you’re avoiding cornstarch, try using potato starch. It works similarly and helps create that crunchy texture.
Vegetable Oil: I love using avocado oil because it has a high smoke point and a mild flavor. Olive oil is another good option, but make sure it’s light or refined to prevent burning.
Spices: Garlic powder and smoked paprika add wonderful flavor. You can easily swap smoked paprika for regular paprika or chili powder if you prefer. Elevate the spices with fresh herbs like rosemary for a different taste!
How Do I Ensure My Sweet Potato Fries Are Super Crispy?
The secret to crispy sweet potato fries is in the prep! Here’s what to focus on:
- Cut your fries to be even and thin (about 1/4 inch thick). This helps them cook evenly for maximum crispiness.
- Don’t skip the cornstarch—it’s essential! Make sure every fry gets a nice coat, as this helps absorb moisture during cooking.
- Spread the fries out in a single layer on the baking sheet. Overcrowding will create steam and make them soggy, not crispy!
- Flipping the fries halfway through cooking helps promote even browning. So don’t forget that step!
- Let them cool slightly after baking. This little wait gives them a chance to crisp up even more!
Extra Crispy Sweet Potato Fries Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 large sweet potatoes (about 2 pounds)
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (or avocado oil)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: pinch of cayenne pepper for heat
Estimated Time:
You’ll need about 10 minutes for preparation and around 25-30 minutes for baking. In total, you’re looking at approximately 40 minutes to enjoy these delicious crispy fries!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). Get out a large baking sheet and line it with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to keep the fries from sticking.
2. Cut the Sweet Potatoes:
Peel the sweet potatoes and chop them into thin, even sticks, aiming for about 1/4 inch thick. The thinner the fries, the crispier they will be!
3. Coat with Cornstarch:
In a large bowl, toss the sweet potato sticks with cornstarch until they’re well-coated. This is the magic step to achieving extra crispy fries!
4. Add Oil and Seasonings:
Drizzle the vegetable oil over the coated fries and mix until each piece is covered. Then sprinkle on the garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper if you’re feeling adventurous. Toss everything again to evenly distribute the seasonings.
5. Arrange on Baking Sheet:
Spread the sweet potato fries in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Make sure they aren’t overlapping too much, or they won’t get crispy!
6. Baking Time!
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 15 minutes. After this, carefully flip the fries with a spatula to ensure even cooking.
7. Final Bake:
Continue to bake for another 10-15 minutes, or until the fries are golden brown and crispy. Keep an eye on them, as cooking times can slightly vary.
8. Cool and Serve:
Once done, take the fries out of the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. If needed, taste and adjust the salt to your liking. Serve them hot with your favorite dipping sauce and enjoy your crunchy, flavorful sweet potato fries!
FAQ
Can I Use Regular Potatoes Instead of Sweet Potatoes?
Absolutely! Regular potatoes will work just fine. You’ll still want to follow the same preparation steps, and they will also turn out crispy and delicious!
How Do I Store Leftover Sweet Potato Fries?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop them in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 5-10 minutes to help regain their crispiness!
Can I Make These Fries Spicy?
Yes, for an extra kick, you can add more cayenne pepper or even a sprinkle of chili powder to the seasonings. Just adjust according to your spice preference!
What Can I Serve With Sweet Potato Fries?
These fries are perfect on their own or paired with a variety of dips! Try them with ketchup, ranch, garlic aioli, or a spicy sriracha sauce for a tasty combo!
