Crispy Oven Baked Sweet Potato Fries
These Crispy Oven Baked Sweet Potato Fries are a fantastic way to enjoy a healthier twist on traditional fries. Perfect for snacks, side dishes, or gatherings, they offer a satisfying crunch without the guilt of deep-frying. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time, these fries deliver exceptional flavor and texture that will leave everyone asking for seconds.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Healthy Alternative: These fries use olive oil and natural sweet potatoes, making them a nutritious choice compared to fried options.
- Easy to Make: With simple steps and common ingredients, you can whip up a batch in no time.
- Versatile Flavor: Customize the seasoning to suit your taste—add more spices or herbs for extra flair.
- Perfectly Crispy: The soaking method and cornstarch ensure that your fries turn out golden and crispy every time.
- Great for Any Occasion: Whether it’s game day or a casual dinner, these fries fit seamlessly into any meal.
Tools and Preparation
To achieve the best results when making your Crispy Oven Baked Sweet Potato Fries, having the right tools is essential. Below are some key items you’ll need.
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Essential Tools and Equipment
- Baking sheet
- Knife
- Cutting board
- Bowl
- Paper towels
Importance of Each Tool
- Baking sheet: A hot baking sheet helps the fries crisp up quickly, preventing sogginess.
- Knife: A sharp knife ensures clean cuts for even-sized fries, promoting uniform cooking.
Ingredients
For the Sweet Potato Fries
- 2 medium sweet potatoes (peeled (optional) and cut into fries)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika (smoked paprika is optional for extra flavor)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch (for extra crispiness)
How to Make Crispy Oven Baked Sweet Potato Fries
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Place a baking sheet inside the oven while it heats to get it nice and hot.
Step 2: Prepare the Sweet Potatoes
Peel the sweet potatoes if desired. Cut them into 1/4 inch thick fries. Aim for uniformity in size so they cook evenly.
Step 3: Soak the Fries
Place the cut sweet potato fries in a bowl of cold water for 30 minutes. This step removes excess starch, which is crucial for achieving crispy fries.
Step 4: Season the Fries
After soaking, drain and pat the fries dry with paper towels to eliminate moisture. In a large bowl, toss the dried fries with:
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
If using cornstarch for added crispiness, sprinkle it in at this stage and toss everything together until evenly coated.
Step 5: Bake the Fries
Carefully remove the hot baking sheet from the oven. Spread the seasoned fries in a single layer on the sheet; avoid overcrowding. Bake for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through until they are golden brown and crispy.
Step 6: Check for Crispiness
Once they are crisp and golden, remove them from the oven. Allow them to cool for a few minutes before serving to enhance their crunchiness.
How to Serve Crispy Oven Baked Sweet Potato Fries
Crispy Oven Baked Sweet Potato Fries are versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether as a side dish or a snack, these fries can elevate any meal with their delightful crunch and flavor.
As a Snack
- Pair with your favorite dipping sauces like ketchup, aioli, or spicy mayo for an enjoyable munching experience.
- Top with grated cheese or nutritional yeast for an extra cheesy flavor that’s both delicious and satisfying.
As a Side Dish
- Serve alongside grilled chicken or fish to create a wholesome meal that balances protein and carbs.
- Add to a colorful salad for a unique twist that adds texture and sweetness.
In Tacos or Wraps
- Use them as a filling in tacos or wraps, adding both crunch and flavor that complements your choice of protein.
- Mix with fresh veggies and sauces for an exciting, healthy lunch option.
With Breakfast
- Enjoy as a side to scrambled eggs or omelets for a nutritious breakfast that fuels your day.
- Top with avocado slices and poached eggs for a trendy brunch dish.
How to Perfect Crispy Oven Baked Sweet Potato Fries
Achieving perfectly crispy sweet potato fries is easy when you follow some key tips. These suggestions will help you master the art of baking delicious fries every time.
- Cutting Uniformly: Ensure all fries are cut to the same thickness. This helps them cook evenly, resulting in consistent crispiness.
- Soaking in Water: Soak the cut fries in cold water for at least 30 minutes. This removes excess starch, which is crucial for achieving that perfect crunch.
- Preheating the Baking Sheet: Preheat your baking sheet along with the oven. This initial heat helps create a crispy exterior right from the start.
- Avoid Overcrowding: Spread the fries out in a single layer on the baking sheet. Crowding them can lead to steaming instead of baking, which affects crispiness.
- Using Cornstarch: For extra crispiness, toss the fries in cornstarch before seasoning. This creates an even crunchier texture when baked.
- Flipping Halfway: Flip the fries halfway through baking to ensure they brown evenly on all sides.
Best Side Dishes for Crispy Oven Baked Sweet Potato Fries
Crispy Oven Baked Sweet Potato Fries make an excellent addition to many dishes. Here are some great options to serve alongside them.
- Grilled Chicken: Juicy grilled chicken pairs well with sweet potato fries, adding protein and flavor to your meal.
- Fish Tacos: Crispy fish tacos complement the sweetness of the fries while providing a refreshing twist on flavors.
- Veggie Burger: A hearty veggie burger served with sweet potato fries makes for a satisfying vegetarian meal option.
- Caesar Salad: The creamy dressing and crunchy croutons of Caesar salad balance nicely with the sweetness of the fries.
- Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw adds crunch and acidity, making it a perfect match for sweet potato fries.
- Quinoa Salad: Nutty quinoa salad offers protein while its fresh ingredients contrast beautifully with fried sweet potatoes.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Crispy Oven Baked Sweet Potato Fries, it’s easy to run into common pitfalls. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:
-
Skipping the Soaking Step: Not soaking the fries in cold water removes excess starch, which is crucial for crispiness. Always soak them for at least 30 minutes.
-
Overcrowding the Baking Sheet: Placing too many fries on the baking sheet leads to steaming rather than baking. Spread them out in a single layer for even cooking.
-
Not Preheating the Oven: Failing to preheat your oven can result in soggy fries. Make sure the oven is hot before placing the fries inside.
-
Ignoring Flip Time: Forgetting to flip the fries halfway through baking means uneven cooking. Set a timer to remind you to turn them over for a golden finish.
-
Using Too Much Oil: Over-oiling can make fries greasy instead of crispy. Stick to the recommended amount and toss well.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- Keep in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freezing Crispy Oven Baked Sweet Potato Fries
- Place cooled fries in a freezer-safe bag or container.
- Freeze for up to 2 months for best quality.
Reheating Crispy Oven Baked Sweet Potato Fries
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and bake for about 10-15 minutes until heated through and crispy.
- Microwave: Heat on high for 1-2 minutes, but be aware that they may lose their crispiness.
- Stovetop: In a skillet, heat over medium heat with a splash of oil, cooking until warm and crispy again.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions about Crispy Oven Baked Sweet Potato Fries:
Can I leave the skin on sweet potatoes?
Yes, leaving the skin on adds nutrients and a bit of texture. Just wash them thoroughly before cutting.
How do I get my sweet potato fries extra crispy?
Soaking the fries in cold water and using cornstarch in your seasoning mix help achieve extra crispiness.
What dipping sauces pair well with sweet potato fries?
Sweet potato fries taste great with dips like garlic aioli, spicy ketchup, or honey mustard.
Can I use other types of potatoes?
Absolutely! You can substitute regular potatoes or even carrots for a different flavor and texture.
Final Thoughts
These Crispy Oven Baked Sweet Potato Fries are not only delicious but also versatile. They make an excellent side dish or snack that you can customize with your favorite spices or dipping sauces. Try making them today and enjoy this healthier alternative!
Crispy Oven Baked Sweet Potato Fries
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 4 servings 1x
Description
Crispy Oven Baked Sweet Potato Fries are a delicious and healthier alternative to traditional fries. These delectable bites feature sweet potatoes tossed in olive oil and spices, then baked to perfection for a satisfying crunch. They’re perfect as a snack, side dish, or at gatherings and can be customized with your favorite seasonings. With minimal prep time and a handful of ingredients, these sweet potato fries are sure to impress everyone at your table.
Ingredients
- 2 medium sweet potatoes (peeled if desired)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional for extra crispiness)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C) and place a baking sheet inside to heat.
- Cut sweet potatoes into uniform fries, about 1/4 inch thick.
- Soak the fries in cold water for 30 minutes to remove excess starch; drain and pat dry.
- In a bowl, toss dried fries with olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, pepper, and cornstarch until evenly coated.
- Spread the fries in a single layer on the hot baking sheet and bake for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through until golden brown.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 160
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
