Air Fryer Crispy Sweet Potato Fries Recipe

Get ready to fall in love with the ultimate snack that’s both delicious and easy to make—the Air Fryer Crispy Sweet Potato Fries Recipe. These fries come out perfectly crisp on the outside with a tender, sweet interior that’s wonderfully addictive. Thanks to the magic of the air fryer, you get all the crunch and flavor without the grease, making it a healthier yet indulgent treat. Whether you’re craving a quick side or sharing a cozy snack, this recipe is sure to become your new favorite go-to.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Simple, fresh, and easy-to-find ingredients are all you need to create these amazing sweet potato fries. Each element plays a vital role, from the natural sweetness and vibrant color of the potatoes to the perfect crispiness brought out by cornstarch and the oils.

• 2 medium sweet potatoes: Choose firm potatoes about 1 pound total for the ideal balance of flavor and texture.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil or avocado oil: Adds richness and helps the fries crisp up beautifully without excess grease.
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch: This little trick is key to achieving that irresistible crunch on your fries.
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Brings in a savory, aromatic touch to elevate every bite.
• 1 teaspoon paprika: Adds a subtle smoky flavor and gorgeous color contrast.
• ½ teaspoon sea salt: Enhances all the natural flavors while seasoning just right.
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper: A gentle kick that balances the sweetness with mild heat.
• Optional ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper: Perfect if you want to turn up the heat for a spicy twist.

How to Make Air Fryer Crispy Sweet Potato Fries Recipe

Step 1: Soak Sweet Potato Fries

Start by cutting your sweet potatoes into fries and soaking them in cold water for 30 minutes. This vital step helps remove excess starch, preventing sogginess and ensuring crispiness once cooked.

Step 2: Dry Thoroughly

After soaking, drain the fries and pat them completely dry with paper towels. Moisture is the enemy of crisp fries, so getting them as dry as possible is key for success.

Step 3: Coat with Cornstarch

Place the dry fries in a large bowl and sprinkle with cornstarch. Toss them well until every fry is lightly coated. This coating forms a thin crust that locks in crunch during air frying.

Step 4: Toss with Oil and Seasonings

Add your olive or avocado oil along with garlic powder, paprika, salt, black pepper, and cayenne if using. Give everything a good toss to evenly coat the fries in those flavorful spices.

Step 5: Preheat the Air Fryer

Set your air fryer to 380°F (193°C) and let it preheat. This ensures your fries start cooking immediately at the right temperature for maximum crisp.

Step 6: Arrange Fries in Basket

Place the fries in the air fryer basket in a single layer without overcrowding. Proper air circulation is essential for crispiness, so give those fries some breathing room.

Step 7: Cook and Shake

Cook the fries for 15-20 minutes, shaking the basket every 5 minutes to ensure even cooking on all sides. This gentle tossing is the secret to achieving that perfect golden crunch.

Step 8: Extra Crispiness if Needed

If you crave even crispier fries, cook for an additional 2-3 minutes. Keep a close eye so they stay perfectly golden and don’t burn.

Step 9: Season While Hot

Once cooked, season your fries with a little extra salt if you like. Doing this while they’re hot helps the seasoning stick and enhances flavor.

How to Serve Air Fryer Crispy Sweet Potato Fries Recipe

Garnishes

Sprinkle fresh herbs like chopped parsley or cilantro over your fries for a pop of color and freshness. You can also drizzle a little garlic aioli or a tangy yogurt dip to elevate the plate beautifully.

Side Dishes

These sweet potato fries make a fantastic accompaniment to juicy burgers, grilled chicken, or even a fresh salad. Their sweet and savory flavor works perfectly alongside rich or light dishes alike.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve them in a rustic paper cone with a side of dipping sauces arranged in little bowls. Or layer them up topped with melted cheese, crispy bacon bits, and scallions for irresistible loaded fries.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover fries in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They retain great flavor, though they may lose some crunch.

Freezing

You can freeze uncooked, seasoned fries by spreading them on a baking sheet until solid, then transferring to a freezer bag. Cook directly from frozen in the air fryer, just adding a few extra minutes.

Reheating

Reheat fries in the air fryer at 350°F for 3-5 minutes to bring back their crispiness. Avoid the microwave as it makes them soggy.

FAQs

Can I use regular potatoes instead of sweet potatoes?

Absolutely! While this recipe shines with the natural sweetness and unique texture of sweet potatoes, regular potatoes can be used with the same method for classic crispy fries.

Why do I need to soak the fries in water?

Soaking removes excess starch, which helps prevent the fries from sticking together and promotes a crispy exterior when air frying.

Can I skip the cornstarch?

Cornstarch is crucial for that extra crunch. Without it, the fries might cook through but won’t get that satisfying crispy coating.

What oil is best for air frying?

Neutral oils with high smoke points, like avocado or light olive oil, are ideal to achieve crispiness without burning or overpowering flavors.

How do I make these fries spicy?

Adding cayenne pepper to the seasoning mix gives a nice gentle heat, or try serving with a spicy dipping sauce for a fun kick.

Final Thoughts

There’s just something incredibly comforting about a plate of crispy, sweet, perfectly seasoned fries made effortlessly in an air fryer. This Air Fryer Crispy Sweet Potato Fries Recipe is easy enough for a weeknight snack yet impressive enough to share with friends. I really hope you give it a try and discover how simple it is to make a crunchy, flavorful treat that everyone will love. Happy frying!

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