Looking for the perfect healthy snack or side dish? These crispy oven-baked sweet potato fries strike the ideal balance between crunch and nutrition. They’re packed with fiber, antioxidants, and essential vitamins—and you won’t need a deep fryer to make them perfectly golden and crisp.
In this guide, you’ll learn how to bake sweet potato fries that are just as satisfying as the fried version, with simple ingredients and foolproof tips.
Why You’ll Love These Sweet Potato Fries
- Naturally sweet and savory
- Crispy without frying
- Kid-friendly and meal-prep approved
- Vegan, gluten-free, and made with pantry staples
Ingredients You’ll Need
All you need are a few simple ingredients:
- 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled (optional) and cut into fries
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika (or smoked paprika for extra flavor)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: 1 tablespoon cornstarch (for extra crispiness)
Pro Tips for Crispy Fries Every Time
Want that irresistible crunch? Follow these proven tips:
1. Cut Evenly
Slice sweet potatoes into even, ¼-inch thick sticks. Uniform size ensures even baking.
2. Soak in Cold Water
Soak the fries in cold water for at least 30 minutes. This removes excess starch and helps them crisp up in the oven.
3. Preheat the Baking Sheet
Place your baking sheet in the oven as it preheats. A hot pan gives the fries a jumpstart for crispy bottoms.
4. Don’t Overcrowd
Spread the fries in a single layer with space between each piece. Overcrowding causes steaming—not crisping.
5. Use Cornstarch (Optional but Powerful)
Tossing the fries in cornstarch before baking creates a light coating that draws out moisture and adds crunch.
How to Make Crispy Oven-Baked Sweet Potato Fries
🔥 Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat Oven
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Place a baking sheet inside to heat while you prep the fries.
2. Slice and Soak
Cut sweet potatoes into ¼-inch thick fries. Soak them in a bowl of cold water for 30 minutes. Then drain and pat dry thoroughly.
3. Season the Fries
In a large bowl, toss the fries with olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. If using cornstarch, sprinkle it on and toss to coat evenly.
4. Bake
Remove the hot baking sheet and arrange fries in a single layer without overlapping. Bake for 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until crispy and golden.
5. Cool and Serve
Let fries cool for a few minutes—they’ll continue crisping up as they cool. Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce.
Perfect Dipping Sauces
Elevate your fries with these delicious dips:
- Garlic Aioli – Mayo, minced garlic, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt
- Chipotle Mayo – Mayo, chipotle sauce, lime juice, and honey
- Honey Mustard – Equal parts honey and Dijon mustard
Avoid These Common Mistakes
- Overcrowding the Pan: Always give fries space to crisp up.
- Skipping the Soak: Skipping the soak means soggier fries.
- Not Drying the Fries: Wet fries = limp fries. Pat dry thoroughly.
- Skipping the Flip: Flip halfway to ensure even crispiness.
- Neglecting Cornstarch: For an extra crunch, don’t skip it!
How to Store and Reheat Leftovers
To Store: Let fries cool completely. Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
To Reheat: Bake in a 375°F (190°C) oven for about 10 minutes. Skip the microwave—it makes them soggy!
Recipe FAQs
Can I skip soaking the fries?
Yes, but they won’t be as crispy. Soaking removes starch for better texture.
Can I use regular potatoes?
Absolutely! The same method works for white or russet potatoes.
What does cornstarch do?
It creates a crispy outer layer that mimics deep-frying—without the oil bath.
Final Thoughts
These oven-baked sweet potato fries are a healthy twist on a favorite comfort food. They’re easy to make, endlessly customizable, and totally addictive. Whether you’re serving them as a snack, side dish, or game day treat, you’ll want to make a double batch!