Healthy Baked Sweet Potato Fries

There is something deeply satisfying about pulling a tray of golden sweet potato fries from the oven Their natural sweetness and crisp edges are pure comfort and they are healthier than regular fries These baked sweet potato fries quickly became my go to for weeknight dinners and weekend snacks because they are wholesome colorful and always get devoured in minutes

The first time I made these my friends kept asking for the recipe I love that you can mix up the seasonings or dip and make them feel brand new every time

Ingredients

• Sweet potatoes: Choose firm sweet potatoes with smooth bright skin for best texture and taste Cut into even fries for consistent baking
• Olive oil: Helps the fries turn golden and crisp Pick a fresh extra virgin oil for best flavor
• Garlic powder: Adds a savory punch Make sure your garlic powder is fresh for the best aroma
• Paprika: Gives warmth and color Smoked paprika brings an extra layer of flavor if you want
• Salt: Brightens the sweetness Fine sea salt sticks to the fries better than coarse salt
• Black pepper: Lifts all the flavors and adds a subtle heat Use freshly ground for the fullest taste
• Cornstarch: Optional but really boosts crispiness Look for a fine cornstarch with no lumps for the best results

Step by Step Instructions

Prepare the Sweet Potatoes:

Wash and peel your sweet potatoes if you prefer skinless fries Cut them into equal sized sticks about one quarter inch thick for even cooking Preheat your oven to four hundred twenty five degrees Fahrenheit and line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy clean up

Coat with Seasoning:

In a large mixing bowl toss the sweet potato fries with olive oil so every piece glistens Add the garlic powder paprika salt and black pepper If using cornstarch sprinkle it evenly Toss everything again so the fries are thoroughly coated and look well seasoned

Arrange on Baking Sheet:

Spread the fries out evenly on your lined baking sheet giving each fry its own space This prevents steaming and helps them crisp up Arrange in a single layer with no overlap

Bake to Perfection:

Slide the tray into the center of your oven Bake for twenty minutes then take out the tray and use a spatula to flip every fry so they brown evenly Return to the oven and bake for another ten to fifteen minutes Keep an eye toward the end as some ovens brown faster

Serve and Enjoy:

Remove the fries from the oven when they are golden around the edges and crisp to the touch Let them cool briefly before transferring to a plate or bowl They are at their best hot and fresh paired with your favorite sauce

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Sweet potatoes are my personal favorite because of their balance of flavor and nutrition Growing up these colorful fries were always a hit at family gatherings and now they are a staple for movie nights at my place

Storage Tips

Let leftover fries cool before storing in an airtight container Refrigerate for up to three days If you want them crisp again reheat in the oven at three hundred seventy five degrees Fahrenheit for about ten minutes Spread them out in a single layer for best results

Ingredient Substitutions

If you run out of olive oil try avocado oil for a neutral flavor or coconut oil for extra sweetness Smoked paprika can swap out for regular paprika or a dash of chili powder for more heat No cornstarch No problem The fries will still get wonderfully crisp just keep an eye on their color

Serving Suggestions

These sweet potato fries are divine next to burgers grilled chicken or as a fun appetizer Try them with spicy mayo garlic aioli or classic ketchup For a unique twist sprinkle a little parmesan or toss with chopped parsley before serving

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Cultural and Historical Context

Sweet potatoes have been a staple in traditional cuisines for centuries especially in South America and the southern United States Baking them instead of frying started as a modern twist to bring out their natural flavors while keeping things healthy Every family seems to have their own secret spice blend and this recipe is endlessly adaptable to different tastes

Common Recipe Questions

→ How do you get sweet potato fries crispy in the oven?

Spread fries in a single layer, use cornstarch, and bake at high heat. Avoid overcrowding the pan for the crispest results.

→ Can you leave the skin on sweet potatoes?

Yes, leaving the skin on adds extra fiber and texture. Just scrub thoroughly before cutting into fries.

→ Which seasonings work well with sweet potato fries?

Garlic powder, paprika, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper are classics. Try cayenne or parmesan for variety.

→ Is soaking the sweet potatoes necessary?

Soaking helps remove excess starch, producing crispier fries. It's optional but enhances texture significantly.

→ How should leftovers be stored and reheated?

Keep fries in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat at 375°F for 10 minutes to crisp up.

→ Can you make these fries in an air fryer?

Yes, cook at 375°F for around 12-15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway for even cooking and browning.