There’s a reason Air Fryer Sweet Potato Fries have become a weeknight favorite: they’re crispy, caramelized, and irresistibly snackable, without deep frying or guilt. In just 20 minutes, you can enjoy the perfect blend of crunch and tenderness, all seasoned to perfection. Whether you’re pairing them with burgers or enjoying them solo with a zesty dipping sauce, this easy recipe transforms humble sweet potatoes into an unforgettable side dish.
Table of Contents
Air Fryer Sweet Potato Fries Recipe
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 12–15 minutes
Total Time: 20–25 minutes
Yield: 2–3 servings
Calories: 150 per serving
Ingredients
- 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into ¼-inch fries
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: pinch of cayenne for spice or cinnamon for sweetness
Instructions
- Preheat: Preheat your air fryer to 380°F (190°C) for 3 minutes.
- Prepare fries: Cut sweet potatoes into even ¼-inch thick fries for consistent cooking.
- Toss with oil and seasonings: In a bowl, combine fries with olive oil, salt, paprika, garlic powder, and pepper. Toss to coat evenly.
- Air fry: Arrange fries in a single layer in the basket (cook in batches if needed). Air fry for 12–15 minutes, shaking halfway through for even crisping.
- Serve: Remove and sprinkle with a little extra salt or herbs if desired. Serve hot with your favorite dip!
Substitutions & Dietary Swaps
- Oil-Free: Lightly spray with olive oil spray or skip entirely for a lower-fat version (crispiness may vary).
- Different Spices: Try smoked paprika, cumin, chili powder, or even cinnamon sugar for sweet fries.
- Low-Sodium: Use a salt substitute or season with herbs like rosemary or thyme instead.
- Gluten-Free: Naturally gluten-free, just ensure your seasoning mix is free of additives.
Chef’s Pro Tips
- Cut fries evenly, this ensures they cook at the same rate.
- Don’t overcrowd the basket; air circulation is key for crispness.
- For extra crunch, soak fries in cold water for 30 minutes before air frying and pat completely dry.
- Use cornstarch (1 tsp) tossed with fries before oiling for restaurant-level crispiness.
- Finish with flaky sea salt for gourmet flavor and texture.
Make Ahead, Storage & Reheating
These Air Fryer Sweet Potato Fries are best served fresh, but you can make them ahead and reheat for a quick snack. Store cooled fries in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, air fry again at 350°F (175°C) for 3–5 minutes to restore crispiness. Avoid microwaving, it makes them soggy.
Troubleshooting & Common Mistakes
- Not crispy enough? Don’t overcrowd the basket and make sure fries are fully dry before air frying.
- Too soft inside? Increase cook time by 2–3 minutes or raise temperature slightly.
- Burnt edges? Cut thicker fries or lower temperature to 370°F next time.
- Uneven cooking? Shake the basket or flip fries halfway through.
Flavor Pairings & Serving Suggestions
Serve Air Fryer Sweet Potato Fries as a side for burgers, wraps, or grilled chicken. They pair wonderfully with dipping sauces like garlic aioli, chipotle mayo, or maple yogurt dip. Sprinkle with parmesan, fresh herbs, or drizzle with a little honey and sea salt for a sweet-savory twist.
Pairing Recipes From Our Website
FAQs
Do I need to soak sweet potatoes before air frying? Soaking removes excess starch and makes fries crispier, but it’s optional for sweet potatoes. Can I make these in the oven? Yes! Bake at 425°F (220°C) for 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway through. What type of sweet potato works best? Orange-fleshed sweet potatoes (like Beauregard or Garnet) give the best balance of crisp and soft texture. Can I double the recipe? Yes, but cook in batches to avoid overcrowding the air fryer. Are these fries healthy? Absolutely! They’re lower in fat and calories than deep-fried versions, plus packed with vitamin A and fiber. Can I freeze cooked fries? Yes, freeze after cooling. Reheat in the air fryer for 5 minutes at 375°F for a quick snack.
Conclusion
Simple, crispy, and wholesome, Air Fryer Sweet Potato Fries are the snack or side dish that fits every occasion. With a tender inside, crunchy exterior, and endless flavor possibilities, they’re a healthy upgrade to classic fries. Make a batch today and watch them disappear in minutes!
For safe food handling and air fryer guidance, visit the USDA Food Safety and FDA Food Resources.