Crispy Air Fryer Sweet Potatoes

I burned my first batch of air fryer sweet potato fries because I walked away to answer a text. The smell brought me running back to a basket of blackened sticks, and I stood there laughing at myself, windows thrown open, wondering if my neighbors could smell my failure. That mistake taught me more than any perfect batch ever could.

My sister came over one evening, stressed and hungry, and I made these on the spot. We sat on the kitchen floor with a bowl between us, dipping fries into spicy mayo and talking until the bowl was empty. She still texts me asking for that recipe, even though I keep telling her its just sweet potatoes and an air fryer.

Ingredients

• Sweet Potatoes: Pick firm ones with smooth skin, and slice them as evenly as you can so they cook at the same rate, I learned this after ending up with some burnt and some raw.
• Olive Oil: Just enough to help the seasonings stick and encourage browning, you dont need to drench them or theyll steam instead of crisp.
• Cornstarch: This is my secret weapon for crunch, it creates a light coating that crisps beautifully and keeps the fries from going soggy.
• Smoked Paprika: Adds a gentle smoky warmth that makes these taste like theyve been kissed by a grill.
• Garlic Powder: A little goes a long way, and it builds savory depth without overpowering the natural sweetness.
• Sea Salt: I always add a pinch more at the end because warm fries deserve that final sparkle of salt.
• Black Pepper: Just a hint of heat to balance everything out.
• Fresh Parsley: Optional, but a handful of chopped parsley makes them look like you tried, even on a weeknight.

Instructions

Preheat the Air Fryer:

Set it to 200°C and let it warm up for 3 minutes. This step ensures the fries start crisping the moment they hit the basket.

Coat the Fries:

Toss your sweet potato sticks in olive oil until theyre lightly glistening, then sprinkle the cornstarch over and toss again so every piece gets a fine dusting.

Season Generously:

Add the smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper, then toss everything together with your hands. You want every fry to taste like something.

Arrange in the Basket:

Lay the fries in a single layer without crowding, if you pile them up, theyll steam and go limp instead of getting crispy.

Air Fry and Shake:

Cook for 15 to 18 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through so they brown evenly. The edges should look golden and a little charred.

Finish and Serve:

Transfer to a plate, hit them with a little extra salt and fresh parsley if youve got it, and eat them while theyre hot.

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One Sunday afternoon I made a double batch for a group of friends who swore they didnt like sweet potatoes. They polished off every last fry before I even sat down, and one of them asked if I could make them again next week. Sometimes the best compliment is just an empty plate.

Serving Suggestions

These fries are perfect alongside burgers, grain bowls, or scrambled eggs for breakfast. I love dipping them in garlic aioli or a smoky chipotle mayo, but plain ketchup works too if thats what youve got. Theyre also great cold the next day, eaten straight from the fridge while standing in front of the open door.

Flavor Variations

If you want a little heat, toss in some chili powder or cayenne with the other spices. For a sweeter take, try a pinch of cinnamon and a drizzle of honey after they come out. I once added cumin and lime zest for a Mexican inspired version, and it disappeared in minutes.

Storage and Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To bring back the crispiness, reheat them in the air fryer at 180°C for about 5 minutes instead of using the microwave. They wont be quite as perfect as fresh, but theyll still be worth eating.

• Let the fries cool completely before storing or theyll get soggy from trapped steam.
• Avoid stacking them too tightly in the container so they dont stick together.
• Refresh them with a tiny drizzle of oil before reheating if they look dry.

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These fries have become my go to whenever I need something quick, satisfying, and just a little bit impressive. I hope they become one of your easy wins too.

Recipe FAQs

→ How do I achieve extra crispiness on sweet potatoes?

Soak cut sweet potatoes in cold water for 30 minutes, dry thoroughly, then toss with a light coating of cornstarch before seasoning. This helps remove excess starch and creates a crispier texture.

→ Can I use other seasonings with sweet potatoes?

Yes, spices like chili powder or cumin add a spicy, warm note to the fries. Adjust seasoning to your taste before air frying.

→ What temperature is ideal for air frying sweet potatoes?

Preheat your air fryer to 200°C (400°F) and cook the sweet potatoes for 15–18 minutes, shaking the basket halfway for even crispness.

→ Is it necessary to toss the fries during cooking?

Yes, shaking or tossing halfway ensures even exposure to heat and air, resulting in consistent golden crispiness on all sides.

→ Can I garnish these sweet potatoes?

Fresh chopped parsley and a sprinkle of sea salt make excellent garnishes, enhancing flavor and freshness without overwhelming the natural sweetness.