Crispy Air Fryer Sweet Potato Fries

Last winter, my air fryer sat neglected for months until one snowy evening when I discovered I could make sweet potato fries that actually crisp up. These became my go-to comfort food, and now the sound of air frying sweet potatoes feels like home.

My youngest brother started requesting these every Sunday during football season, and they disappeared faster than I could make them. Now the whole house smells like smoked paprika whenever he visits.

Ingredients

• Sweet Potatoes: Two large ones yield enough for four people, and peeling them ensures even cooking
• Olive Oil: Two tablespoons helps the seasonings stick and promotes that golden exterior we all want
• Cornstarch: This one teaspoon is the secret weapon for achieving actual crispiness instead of soggy fries
• Smoked Paprika: Adds a subtle smoky depth that makes these taste like they came from a restaurant kitchen
• Garlic Powder: Half a teaspoon provides savory undertones without burning like fresh garlic might
• Sea Salt: Enhances the natural sweetness of the potatoes while balancing the spices
• Black Pepper: Freshly ground gives you that little kick of heat that keeps you reaching for more

Instructions

Prep your potatoes:

Cut the sweet potatoes into evenly sized 1/4 inch thick fries so they cook at the same rate and none end up burnt while others are still raw

Soak for success:

Place the fries in a large bowl and cover with cold water for 30 minutes, then drain and pat them thoroughly dry with paper towels until no moisture remains

Coat with flavor:

Toss the dried fries with olive oil first, then sprinkle with cornstarch, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until every piece is evenly covered

Preheat properly:

Heat your air fryer to 200°C (400°F) for 3 minutes because starting with a hot basket makes all the difference in the final texture

Arrange carefully:

Spread the fries in a single layer in the air fryer basket, working in batches if necessary, because overcrowding leads to steaming instead of crisping

Cook to perfection:

Air fry for 15 to 18 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until the fries are golden brown with crispy edges and tender centers

Serve immediately:

Transfer to a serving bowl and add extra salt while they are hot, then watch them vanish before your eyes

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These fries have become my reliable side dish for dinner parties because they impress everyone while requiring so little active work. The first time I served them, my friend asked for the recipe before she even finished her first bite.

Making Them Extra Crispy

The cornstarch creates a light coating that transforms the texture from soft to shatteringly crisp. Do not skip this step unless you prefer softer fries.

Soaking versus Skipping

That 30 minute water bath removes excess starch and helps the exterior dry completely during cooking. In a rush, I have skipped it, but the texture difference is noticeable.

Seasoning Variations

Sometimes I add a pinch of cayenne for heat or substitute curry powder for the paprika when I want something different. The base method works with almost any spice blend you prefer.

• Try onion powder instead of garlic for a milder flavor
• A tablespoon of parmesan added after cooking creates a savory version
• Cinnamon and sugar turns these into a sweet treat the kids love

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There is something deeply satisfying about pulling out a basket of perfectly golden fries you made yourself. Enjoy every crispy bite.

Recipe Questions & Answers

→ How do I get crispy sweet potato fries in the air fryer?

Soak the cut fries in cold water for 30 minutes to remove excess starch, then pat them completely dry before tossing with cornstarch. The cornstarch creates a crispy coating, while the air fryer's circulating heat ensures even cooking and golden perfection.

→ Should I peel sweet potatoes before making fries?

Peeling is recommended for the best texture and consistent crispiness. The skin can become tough and chewy in the air fryer, while peeled potatoes yield uniformly tender fries with that satisfying crunch on the outside.

→ What temperature works best for air fryer sweet potato fries?

200°C (400°F) provides ideal results. This high heat creates the crispy exterior while cooking the interior through. Preheating for 3 minutes before adding the fries helps achieve consistent cooking from the first batch to the last.

→ Why soak sweet potato fries before air frying?

Soaking removes surface starch, which prevents fries from sticking together and promotes better crisping. This extra step takes just 30 minutes and makes a noticeable difference in texture, though you can skip it if pressed for time.

→ What seasonings work well with sweet potato fries?

Smoked paprika and garlic powder create a classic savory profile. For heat, add cayenne or chili powder. Cinnamon and brown sugar offer a sweet variation. The fries also pair beautifully with chipotle mayo, garlic aioli, or seasoned ketchup for dipping.

→ Can I make these fries without an air fryer?

Yes, though the texture will differ. Bake at 425°F on a parchment-lined baking sheet for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway. The results will be slightly less crispy but still delicious. For oven versions, increase cornstarch slightly to help with crunch.