Crispy Oven-Baked Sweet Potato Fries

These Crispy Sweet Potato Fries are a healthy and delicious alternative to traditional fries. They’re baked, not fried — yet still achieve that perfect crunch thanks to a simple coating of cornstarch and olive oil.
Seasoned with just the right blend of spices, they’re addictive, flavorful, and pair beautifully with any dipping sauce.

Ingredients

  • 2 large sweet potatoes (about 1½ lbs / 680 g)
  • 2 tbsp cornstarch (for crispiness)
  • 2 tbsp olive oil (or avocado oil)
  • 1 tsp salt
  • ½ tsp paprika
  • ½ tsp garlic powder
  • ¼ tsp black pepper
  • Optional: ½ tsp cayenne pepper or chili powder for spice

For Serving:

  • Ketchup, aioli, or honey mustard dip

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper — this helps prevent sticking and burning.

Step 2: Prepare the Sweet Potatoes

Wash and peel the sweet potatoes (optional).
Cut them into thin, even sticks — about ¼-inch (6 mm) thick.
Try to keep them uniform so they bake evenly.

Step 3: Soak for Crispiness

Place the cut fries in a bowl of cold water and soak for 30 minutes.
This removes excess starch and helps them crisp up.
Drain and pat completely dry with a clean towel.

Step 4: Coat the Fries

In a large bowl, toss the fries with cornstarch until evenly coated.
Add olive oil, salt, paprika, garlic powder, and pepper. Toss again until well mixed.

Step 5: Bake

Spread the fries in a single layer on the baking sheet — no overlapping!
Bake for 15 minutes, then flip each fry carefully.
Continue baking for another 15–20 minutes, or until golden and crispy on the edges.

Step 6: Serve

Let cool slightly before serving (they crisp up more as they cool).
Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce.

Dipping Sauce Ideas

  • Garlic Aioli: Mix mayo, minced garlic, lemon juice, and salt.
  • Spicy Ketchup: Combine ketchup with a dash of hot sauce or chili powder.
  • Honey Mustard: Mix equal parts honey, Dijon mustard, and mayo.

Tips for Perfect Fries

  • Don’t overcrowd the pan — bake in batches if needed.
  • For extra crunch, use a metal baking rack over the tray so air circulates all around.
  • Add a sprinkle of parmesan and herbs after baking for gourmet-style fries.

Bonus Variation

Cinnamon Sugar Sweet Potato Fries (Sweet Version)
Instead of savory seasoning, toss with a bit of sugar and cinnamon after baking — amazing with marshmallow dip or caramel sauce!

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