Name: Baked Sweet Potato Fries
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 1 pound Sweet potatoes (firm and free from blemishes); 2 tablespoons Olive oil; 1 tablespoon Cornstarch; Kosher salt (to taste); Freshly ground black pepper (to taste)

Sweet potato fries are a delightful twist on the classic French fry, offering a sweet and savory flavor that can elevate any meal. They are perfectly crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and are made with minimal ingredients, making them an easy and wholesome snack or side dish. With their vibrant color and naturally sweet taste, these Baked Sweet Potato Fries are not just a treat for your taste buds but also a feast for your eyes. Whether you’re dipping them in your favorite sauce or enjoying them plain, they are sure to become a staple in your kitchen!

Why It Deserves a Spot

Baked Sweet Potato Fries deserve a prominent place in your recipe repertoire for several reasons. First, they are incredibly simple to make, requiring just a handful of ingredients and minimal preparation time. Second, sweet potatoes are packed with nutrients, including vitamins A and C, fiber, and antioxidants, making these fries a healthier alternative to traditional potato fries. Finally, they are versatile! You can easily customize the seasoning to suit your taste, whether you prefer a spicy kick or a hint of sweetness.

Your Shopping Guide

When preparing your Baked Sweet Potato Fries, here’s what you’ll need to gather:

1 pound sweet potatoes: Make sure they are firm and free from blemishes. You can choose to peel them or leave the skin on for extra texture and nutrients.
2 tablespoons olive oil: This helps the fries achieve that crispy texture while adding a rich flavor.
1 tablespoon cornstarch: This is the secret ingredient for extra crispiness, helping to absorb moisture from the sweet potatoes.
Kosher salt: A must for seasoning, enhancing the natural sweetness of the potatoes.
Freshly ground black pepper: For a touch of spice and depth of flavor.

Gear Checklist

Before diving into the cooking process, make sure you have the following equipment handy:

Baking sheet: A large, rimmed baking sheet is ideal for spreading the fries out evenly.
Parchment paper: Optional, but it can help prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
Mixing bowl: For tossing the sweet potatoes with oil and seasonings.
Sharp knife: To cut the sweet potatoes into fry shapes.
Measuring spoons: For accurate measurements of oil and cornstarch.

Directions: Baked Sweet Potato Fries

Step 1: Preheat the oven

Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high temperature is crucial for achieving that desired crispiness.

Step 2: Prepare the sweet potatoes

Wash the sweet potatoes thoroughly under running water. If you prefer them peeled, go ahead and peel them. Otherwise, leave the skin on for added texture and nutrients. Cut the sweet potatoes into uniform fry shapes—about 1/4 inch thick for optimal cooking.

Step 3: Toss with ingredients

In a mixing bowl, combine the cut sweet potatoes with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, 1 tablespoon of cornstarch, and a sprinkle of kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper. Toss everything together until the fries are evenly coated.

Step 4: Arrange on baking sheet

Line your baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup, if desired. Spread the sweet potato fries out in a single layer, making sure they are not overcrowded. This will help them cook evenly and become crispy.

Step 5: Bake the fries

Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. Halfway through, flip the fries using a spatula to ensure they brown evenly on all sides.

Step 6: Check for doneness

The fries should be golden brown and crispy when done. If they need a little more time, continue baking in 5-minute increments, keeping a close eye on them.

Step 7: Serve and enjoy

Once baked, remove the fries from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Serve them hot with your favorite dipping sauce, or enjoy them as is!

Make It Year-Round

Sweet potatoes are available year-round, making this recipe easy to revisit no matter the season. Here are some tips to keep this dish fresh throughout the year:

Seasonal spices: Experiment with different spices according to the season. In fall, try cinnamon and nutmeg for a sweet twist; in summer, go for garlic powder and paprika for a spicy kick.
Dipping sauces: Change up the dipping sauces based on what’s in season. Pair with a zesty avocado dip in spring or a spicy mayo in summer.
Meal pairing: Serve these fries alongside seasonal dishes, like grilled meats in summer or hearty stews in winter, for a balanced meal.
Meal prep: Cut and prepare sweet potato fries ahead of time and store them in the fridge for quick baking on busy nights.

Chef’s Rationale

Baked Sweet Potato Fries are not just delicious; they are also a smart choice for a snack or side dish. Here are some reasons why:

Healthier alternative: Compared to traditional fries, sweet potatoes are lower in calories and higher in fiber.
Simple ingredients: With only four main ingredients, you can whip these up anytime without a trip to the grocery store.
Customizable: Adjust the seasonings to match your mood or dietary preferences.
Family-friendly: Kids love the sweet flavor, making them an excellent way to introduce more vegetables into their diet.

Cooling, Storing & Rewarming

To ensure your Baked Sweet Potato Fries remain delicious, follow these guidelines:

Once cooled, you can store leftover fries in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them on a baking sheet and warm them in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 10 minutes, or until crispy again. Avoid the microwave, as it will make them soggy.

Ask the Chef

Can I make these fries in an air fryer?

Absolutely! Air fryers are a fantastic way to achieve crispy fries without the need for much oil. Just toss the seasoned sweet potatoes in the air fryer basket and cook at 400°F (200°C) for about 15-20 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.

What can I serve with sweet potato fries?

Sweet potato fries pair wonderfully with a variety of dips such as ketchup, aioli, ranch dressing, or even a spicy sriracha mayo. They also complement grilled meats, sandwiches, or salads.

Can I freeze sweet potato fries before baking?

Yes! To freeze, spread the cut fries on a baking sheet and freeze them until solid. Then transfer them to a freezer bag. You can bake them directly from frozen—just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

What’s the best way to cut sweet potatoes for fries?

The best way to cut sweet potatoes for fries is to first slice them into planks about 1/4 inch thick and then cut those planks into sticks. This ensures even cooking and a uniform fry shape.

That’s a Wrap

Baked Sweet Potato Fries are an irresistible, healthy alternative to traditional fries, bringing a sweet and savory flavor to your table. With their easy preparation and adaptability, they can fit seamlessly into any meal or occasion. Whether you enjoy them as a snack, a side dish, or part of a larger feast, they are bound to impress everyone at the table.

Sweet potatoes offer a delightful sweetness that pairs perfectly with a sprinkle of salt and pepper, making every bite satisfying. So gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and treat yourself to a batch of these scrumptious Baked Sweet Potato Fries today!