Crispy Air Fryer Sweet Potatoes

The air fryer changed my relationship with sweet potato fries forever. I used to bake them, watching hopefully through the oven door while they turned soggy or burned at the edges. That first batch came out shockingly crispy, with just the right amount of tender sweetness inside. Now they're my go-to when I want something comforting but not heavy.

My roommate walked in while I was pulling these from the air fryer last Tuesday, immediately asking what smelled so incredible. We ended up eating the entire batch straight from the basket while debating movie options. There's something about hot crispy fries that makes any evening feel a little more special.

Ingredients

• Sweet Potatoes: Two large potatoes yield about four servings, and peeling them helps achieve that uniform crispiness we're after
• Olive Oil: Two tablespoons helps the spices stick and promotes even browning without making the fries greasy
• Cornstarch: This is the secret weapon for crispy sweet potato fries, creating a light coating that transforms in the air fryer
• Smoked Paprika: Adds a subtle smoky depth that complements the natural sweetness of the potatoes
• Garlic Powder: Provides savory notes that balance the sweet potato flavor perfectly
• Sea Salt: Essential for bringing out all the flavors, and you can always add more at the end
• Freshly Ground Black Pepper: Just enough to add a gentle warmth and round out the seasoning blend

Instructions

Prep Your Potatoes:

Cut the sweet potatoes into evenly sized 1/4-inch thick fries, keeping them as uniform as possible for even cooking

Soak for Crispiness:

Place the fries in a large bowl and cover with cold water for 30 minutes, then drain and pat completely dry with paper towels

Coat with Seasonings:

Toss the dried fries with olive oil first, then sprinkle with cornstarch and spices until every piece is evenly coated

Preheat and Arrange:

Preheat your air fryer to 200°C for 3 minutes, then arrange fries in a single layer without overcrowding

Air Fry to Perfection:

Cook for 15-18 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until golden brown and crispy

Serve Hot:

Transfer to a serving bowl immediately and add extra salt if desired, though they're usually perfect as is

Save

These fries have become my signature dish at family gatherings. My nephew actually requested them for his birthday dinner instead of cake, which I consider the ultimate compliment from a seven year old.

Making Them Extra Crispy

I've discovered that soaking the fries isn't just a suggestion, it's the difference between decent and amazing restaurant quality results. The water draws out excess starch, which otherwise creates a steamy environment that fights crispiness.

Customizing the Seasonings

Sometimes I skip the paprika and use cinnamon and a touch of maple sugar instead. Other times, a pinch of cayenne makes these surprisingly addictive. The base method works with almost any spice combination you can imagine.

Serving Suggestions That Work

These fries are incredibly versatile on their own, but the right dip elevates them even further. I've served them alongside everything from veggie burgers to roasted chicken, and they disappear from the platter every single time.

• Try mixing mayonnaise with a little chipotle powder and lime juice for a creamy spicy dip
• A simple aioli with garlic and fresh herbs feels fancy but takes minutes to whisk together
• For something lighter, Greek yogurt mixed with herbs and lemon pairs beautifully with the sweet potato flavor

Save

There's something deeply satisfying about pulling out a basket of golden fries, especially knowing they're as wholesome as they are delicious. Enjoy every crispy bite.

Recipe FAQs

→ How do I get sweet potato fries crispy?

Soaking cut fries in cold water removes excess starch, then coating them lightly with cornstarch, oil, and seasonings before air frying ensures a crispy texture.

→ What seasonings complement sweet potato fries?

Smoked paprika and garlic powder add smoky, savory notes that enhance the natural sweetness, balanced by salt and black pepper.

→ Can I skip soaking the fries before cooking?

Yes, soaking is optional but helps achieve extra crispiness by removing starch; skipping saves prep time with slightly less crunch.

→ How should I arrange fries in the air fryer?

Place fries in a single layer without overcrowding, cooking in batches if necessary to ensure even air circulation and crispiness.

→ What dips pair well with these fries?

Classic choices like ketchup or spicy chipotle mayo complement the smoky, savory flavors nicely.

→ Are these fries suitable for special diets?

Yes, they are vegetarian and gluten-free when prepared with the listed ingredients.