Baked Sweet Potato Fries Recipe
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If you’ve ever craved a snack that’s both satisfyingly crispy and naturally sweet, then these Baked Sweet Potato Fries are about to become your new favorite treat. Imagine perfectly golden, lightly spiced fries that offer all the comfort of traditional fries with a wholesome twist, crisped to perfection in the oven so you get that delightful crunch without the guilt. It’s a simple recipe that highlights the sweet earthiness of sweet potatoes enhanced by a touch of smoky paprika and just the right amount of salt, making it impossible to stop at just one bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting started with Baked Sweet Potato Fries is wonderfully straightforward because the ingredients are simple yet so impactful. Each component builds on the natural flavor and texture of the sweet potato, ensuring your fries come out just right every time.
- 2 Medium sweet potatoes: The star of the show, offering both natural sweetness and a vibrant orange color that makes these fries pop.
- 1 Tbsp Olive oil: Helps to crisp the fries while adding a subtle richness and keeping them perfectly golden.
- ½ tsp Paprika: Adds a smoky, slightly spicy note that complements the sweetness exquisitely.
- Salt to taste: Enhances all the flavors and balances the natural sweetness of the potatoes with a savory touch.
How to Make Baked Sweet Potato Fries
Step 1: Prep your sweet potatoes
Start by peeling (if you prefer) and cutting your sweet potatoes into evenly sized fries. This step is key because uniform pieces cook more evenly, meaning your fries will bake to the perfect crispness without any getting soggy or burning.
Step 2: Toss with oil and seasoning
In a large bowl, drizzle the olive oil over your cut sweet potato fries, then sprinkle with paprika and salt. Toss thoroughly to make sure every fry is coated in this flavorful mixture. This ensures a delicious, even seasoning that delivers on every bite.
Step 3: Arrange and bake
Spread the fries out in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or lightly greased to prevent sticking. This space lets them roast rather than steam, which is the secret to getting that crispy edge. Bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 25 minutes, flipping halfway through to brown all sides.
Step 4: Check for crispiness and serve
Your fries should be golden and crispy on the outside with a tender inside. If they need a little extra crisp, leave them in the oven for a few more minutes, but watch them closely to avoid burning. Then it’s time to serve!
How to Serve Baked Sweet Potato Fries
Garnishes
Simple garnishes like a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley, a dusting of grated Parmesan cheese, or even a squeeze of fresh lime can elevate your baked sweet potato fries. These add freshness, a cheesy zing, or a bright citrus twist that complements the smoky paprika perfectly.
Side Dishes
These fries are wonderfully versatile—they work beautifully alongside grilled chicken, burgers, or even a hearty salad. Their natural sweetness and light spice offer a fantastic contrast to savory main dishes, making them a crowd-pleaser at any meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving your Baked Sweet Potato Fries in a rustic cone of parchment paper for casual gatherings or alongside a trio of dipping sauces like garlic aioli, chipotle mayo, and classic ketchup for extra fun. Presentation can be part of the experience, so get creative and invite your guests to dig in!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Baked Sweet Potato Fries can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Keep in mind that they may lose their crispness, but they still taste delicious when reheated properly.
Freezing
If you want to make a batch in advance, you can freeze the fries after they have cooled. Spread them out on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer to a freezer bag. They’ll keep well for up to a month and can be baked straight from frozen.
Reheating
To bring back that crisp texture, reheat your leftover or frozen sweet potato fries in a hot oven or air fryer. Avoid the microwave since it tends to make fries soggy. Just 5–10 minutes at 375°F (190°C) should do the trick.
FAQs
Can I use regular potatoes instead of sweet potatoes?
Absolutely! While this recipe specifically highlights the unique flavor of sweet potatoes, you can swap them for russet or Yukon gold potatoes if you prefer a more classic fry taste.
How do I make my Baked Sweet Potato Fries crispier?
To boost crispiness, cut the fries thinner, avoid overcrowding the pan, and make sure you flip them halfway through baking. Using a convection setting if available also helps remove moisture faster.
Is it necessary to peel the sweet potatoes?
Not at all—leaving the skin on adds an extra layer of texture and nutrients. Just be sure to wash them well before cutting if you decide to keep the skin.
What dipping sauces go best with Baked Sweet Potato Fries?
They’re great with everything from classic ketchup and ranch to spicy chipotle mayo or even a tangy yogurt-based dip. Mixing and matching is part of the fun!
Can I double the recipe easily?
Yes, this recipe scales up nicely. Just use a larger baking sheet or two to ensure the fries stay in a single layer so they cook evenly.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly comforting about a batch of crispy, perfectly seasoned Baked Sweet Potato Fries fresh from the oven. Whether you’re craving a quick snack or a flavorful side dish, these fries strike the perfect balance between sweet, savory, and smoky. Give this recipe a try—I promise it will become one of your go-to favorites whenever that fry craving hits!
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