Crispy Oven Baked Sweet Potato Fries Recipe
Introduction
Crispy oven-baked sweet potato fries are a delicious and healthier alternative to traditional fried fries. They offer a perfect balance of tender inside and crunchy outside, seasoned with garlic and paprika for extra flavor. This recipe is simple and perfect for a satisfying snack or side dish.
Ingredients
- 2 medium sweet potatoes (peeled optional and cut into fries)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika (smoked paprika optional for extra flavor)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch (for extra crispiness)
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and place a baking sheet inside to heat up while the oven warms.
- Step 2: Peel the sweet potatoes if desired, then cut them into 1/4 inch thick fries, trying to keep them uniform for even cooking.
- Step 3: Soak the cut fries in cold water for 30 minutes to remove excess starch, which helps them get crispy.
- Step 4: Drain and thoroughly pat the fries dry with paper towels to remove moisture. In a large bowl, toss them with olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, black pepper, and cornstarch if using.
- Step 5: Carefully remove the hot baking sheet from the oven. Spread the fries out in a single layer, making sure they are not crowded. Bake for 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.
- Step 6: Once baked, let the fries cool for a few minutes before serving to enjoy their full crispiness.
Tips & Variations
- Use smoked paprika for a deeper, smoky flavor.
- For extra crispiness, be sure to dry the fries thoroughly before seasoning and baking.
- Try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper if you like a bit of heat.
- If you prefer softer fries, reduce the baking time by 5 minutes.
Storage
Store leftover fries in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat and maintain crispiness, place them on a baking sheet in a 400°F (200°C) oven for 5–10 minutes instead of microwaving.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I leave the sweet potato skins on?
Yes, leaving the skins on adds extra fiber and nutrients. Just be sure to wash them thoroughly before cutting.
Why do I need to soak the sweet potato fries in water?
Soaking removes excess starch from the surface of the fries, which helps them crisp up better during baking.
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Crispy Oven Baked Sweet Potato Fries Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Enjoy perfectly crispy oven-baked sweet potato fries with a flavorful blend of garlic, paprika, and a touch of cornstarch for extra crunch. This easy-to-make recipe ensures golden, crispy fries without deep frying, making it a healthier alternative for a delicious snack or side dish.
Ingredients
Sweet Potatoes
- 2 medium sweet potatoes (peeled optional, cut into 1/4 inch thick fries)
Seasonings
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika (smoked paprika optional)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch (for extra crispiness)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and place a baking sheet inside to heat up while the oven preheats. This helps achieve a crisp texture.
- Prepare the Sweet Potatoes: Peel the sweet potatoes if desired, then cut them into uniform 1/4 inch thick fries to ensure they cook evenly.
- Soak the Fries: Place the cut sweet potato fries in a bowl of cold water and soak for 30 minutes. This step removes excess starch, which is crucial for crispiness.
- Season the Fries: Drain and thoroughly pat the fries dry with paper towels to remove moisture. In a large bowl, toss the fries with olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, black pepper, and cornstarch until everything is evenly coated.
- Bake the Fries: Carefully remove the hot baking sheet from the oven. Spread the fries in a single layer without overcrowding. Bake for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until fries are golden brown and crispy.
- Check for Crispiness: Once baked, take the fries out of the oven and let them cool for a few minutes before serving to allow them to firm up and maintain their crisp texture.
Notes
- Soaking fries in cold water helps remove excess starch and promotes crispiness.
- Using cornstarch is optional but highly recommended for extra crunch.
- Make sure fries are spread in a single layer on the baking sheet to avoid steaming and sogginess.
- Flipping halfway ensures even browning on all sides.
- Optionally, try smoked paprika for a smoky flavor profile.
- Prep Time: 40 minutes
- Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: oven baked sweet potato fries, crispy sweet potato fries, healthy sweet potato fries, baked fries, sweet potato side dish
