Crispy Oven Baked Sweet Potato Fries

The first time I made sweet potato fries, I was expecting them to be like regular fries, just sweeter. I was so wrong. They ended up as sad, soggy sticks that made me question everything I knew about oven baking. After some experimentation and a few kitchen failures, I finally figured out what makes them actually crispy and now they are a staple in our house for movie nights.

Last summer, my sister came over for dinner and I made these fries to go with some veggie burgers. She took one bite and actually said, wait, did you deep fry these. When I told her they were from the oven, she demanded the recipe right there at the dinner table. Now she makes them every week for her kids.

Ingredients

• 2 large sweet potatoes: Look for firm ones without bruises or soft spots, and try to pick ones that are similar in thickness so they cook evenly
• 2 tbsp olive oil: This helps the seasonings stick and contributes to that crispy exterior we are after
• 1 tsp sea salt: Sweet potatoes need salt to balance their natural sweetness
• 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper: Adds a nice warmth that complements the sweet flavor
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika: This optional ingredient adds a smoky depth that makes these fries taste restaurant quality
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder: Another optional seasoning that makes these fries extra savory and addictive

Instructions

Get your oven ready:

Preheat to 220°C (425°F) and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier

Cut your fries:

Slice the sweet potatoes into evenly sized sticks about 1 cm thick, keeping them uniform so they all finish cooking at the same time

Season them well:

Place the fries in a large bowl and toss with olive oil and all seasonings until every piece is coated

Arrange for success:

Spread the fries in a single layer on your prepared baking sheet, making sure they have room to breathe and are not crowded

Bake to perfection:

Bake for 15 minutes, flip them over carefully, then bake for another 15 minutes until the edges are golden and crispy

Finish and serve:

Remove from the oven, sprinkle with fresh parsley if you like, and serve immediately while they are at their crispiest

Save

These fries have become my go to when I need something comforting but do not want to spend hours in the kitchen. There is something so satisfying about pulling a tray of golden, crispy fries from the oven and knowing they are actually good for you too.

Getting The Right Cut

The thickness of your fries makes a huge difference in how they turn out. Too thin and they will burn before they crisp up. Too thick and they will be soft inside without that satisfying crunch. I have found that about 1 cm thick is the sweet spot, giving you tender interiors with properly crispy edges.

Seasoning Variations

While the classic salt and pepper combination is delicious, do not be afraid to experiment. I have tried everything from cinnamon and a touch of maple syrup for a sweet version to chili powder and cumin for a spicy kick. Fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme add an earthy flavor that pairs beautifully with the natural sweetness of the potatoes.

Serving Suggestions

These fries are incredibly versatile and can elevate so many meals. They are perfect alongside veggie burgers, grilled chicken, or even as a snack on their own.

• Try them with a garlic aioli for a restaurant style appetizer
• Serve with a spicy ketchup or sriracha mayo for extra flavor
• They are amazing crumbled over a salad for added texture

Save

There is nothing quite like pulling a tray of perfectly golden sweet potato fries from the oven, their edges caramelized and crispy. They have become a regular in our rotation and I hope they become a favorite in your kitchen too.

Recipe FAQs

→ How do I make sweet potato fries crispy?

Achieve maximum crispiness by cutting fries evenly, avoiding overcrowding on the baking sheet, and baking at high heat (220°C/425°F). For extra crunch, soak cut potatoes in cold water for 30 minutes and pat thoroughly dry before seasoning and baking.

→ What seasonings work best with sweet potato fries?

Sweet potatoes pair wonderfully with both sweet and savory spices. Classic combinations include sea salt and black pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, chili powder, cumin, or cinnamon. Fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme add aromatic depth.

→ Can I air-fry sweet potato fries instead?

Absolutely. Air-frying at 200°C (400°F) for 12-15 minutes, shaking halfway through, produces excellent results with less oil. The circulating heat creates even crispiness while maintaining that fluffy interior texture.

→ Why are my sweet potato fries soggy?

Soggy fries usually result from overcrowding the baking sheet or insufficient oven temperature. Ensure fries are arranged in a single layer without touching. Proper moisture removal before baking—either through soaking or thorough drying—also prevents sogginess.

→ What dipping sauces complement sweet potato fries?

The natural sweetness pairs beautifully with creamy, tangy, or spicy options. Try garlic aioli, spicy chipotle mayo, honey mustard, or even a maple-cinnamon dip for a sweet twist. Classic ketchup always works perfectly too.