Crispy Oven Baked Sweet Potato Fries
These crispy oven baked sweet potato fries are golden on the outside, tender inside, and packed with naturally sweet flavor. Perfect as a healthy side, snack, or party appetizer, they’re easy to make with just a few pantry staples—and yes, they actually crisp up in the oven with the right method!
Equipment
- Baking sheet (or wire rack over sheet)
- Parchment paper or silicone baking mat
- Large bowl
- Sharp knife or mandoline
- Tongs or spatula
- Oven thermometer (recommended)
- Paper towels or clean kitchen towel
Ingredients
- 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled (optional)
- 1½–2 tbsp neutral oil (avocado, olive, or canola)
- 2 tsp cornstarch (or arrowroot/potato starch)
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ¼ tsp salt (plus more to taste after baking)
- Optional: black pepper, chili powder, rosemary, cinnamon-sugar
Instructions
Preheat Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (218°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat for easy release.
Slice the Sweet Potatoes:
- Cut into ¼-inch sticks, trying to keep them as even as possible for uniform cooking.
Optional – Soak for Crispier Results:
- Soak sliced fries in cold water for 30 minutes. Drain, then pat completely dry with a towel.
Season:
- In a large bowl, toss fries with oil, cornstarch, and seasonings. Mix well to coat every piece.
Spread Evenly:
Lay fries on your baking sheet in a single layer with space between each piece. No overlapping—this is key for crisping.
Bake:
- Bake for 15 minutes, flip each fry using tongs, then bake another 10–15 minutes until golden and crisped at the edges.
Rest & Serve:
- Let fries sit on the baking sheet for 5 minutes to crisp up more. Sprinkle with extra salt or herbs before serving.
Notes
- Starch matters! Don’t skip the cornstarch—it’s your crispiness booster.
- Want extra crispy? Use a wire rack set over your baking sheet for air circulation.
- Reheat tip: Toast in the oven at 375°F to bring back the crisp.
- Customize the seasoning to match your mood—curry powder, ranch, or even cinnamon-sugar all work wonderfully.
- For even crispier fries, bake one tray at a time in the center rack.